Braces typically cost about $5,000, but there is significant variation. In a poll of general dentists and orthodontists, continuing dental education resource The Wealthy Dentist found that general dentists charge an average of $5,040 for orthodontic work, while orthodontists charge about $5,600. While a general dentist may be fully qualified to offer braces, an orthodontist will have completed several extra years of study.

The cost of braces varies by region. Orthodontic treatment costs the most in the Northeast, the Pacific states, and Canada. Affordable braces can most easily be found in the Western mountain states. In addition, urban dentists charge more for orthodontic treatment than do suburban or rural doctors. In fact, city dentists charge about $500 more than do country doctors.

How much dental braces cost also depends on what sort of orthodontic treatment a patient needs. This survey found that adult braces and Invisalign costs were roughly equal. Teen braces were the least expensive option, costing several hundred dollars less. Since teens’ teeth are still developing, it can be technically easier to straighten crooked teeth.

Though dental braces cost thousands of dollars, dentists feel they are worth every penny. “Over that past 30 years the cost of braces has not kept pace with cost-of-living increases,” mentioned a Washington orthodontist. “Thankfully technology has allowed greater efficiency and consequently reasonable profitability for the orthodontist and a good price for the consumer.”

Read full press release…Braces Cost a Little More from Orthodontists.