How much is braces?
Braces cost about $3,000 to $8,000 in 2026, with a national average near $5,000. Traditional metal braces are cheapest, ceramic runs a bit higher, and lingual braces are the most expensive at $8,000 to $13,000. With dental insurance, most patients pay roughly $1,500 to $5,000 out of pocket.
Cost breakdown
| Option | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | $3,000 - $7,000 | Most common option; most patients pay around $5,000 to $6,000. |
| Ceramic braces | $4,000 - $8,500 | Tooth-colored brackets that are less visible than metal. |
| Lingual braces | $8,000 - $13,000 | Mounted behind the teeth; the most expensive option. |
| National average (all types) | ~$5,000 | Typical overall range of about $3,000 to $8,000. |
| Out-of-pocket with insurance | $1,500 - $5,000 | Plans often cover about 50%, up to a lifetime ortho max of $1,000-$3,000. |
What braces cost in 2026
Braces typically cost between $3,000 and $8,000 in the U.S. in 2026, with a national average near $5,000. The price depends heavily on the type of braces, the length of treatment, and how complex the orthodontic correction is.
Traditional metal braces are the most affordable, usually $3,000 to $7,000, with most patients landing around $5,000 to $6,000. Ceramic braces cost a bit more at $4,000 to $8,500, while lingual braces, mounted behind the teeth, are the priciest at $8,000 to $13,000.
How insurance changes the price
Many dental plans that include orthodontic benefits cover roughly 50 percent of treatment, but only up to a separate lifetime orthodontic maximum of about $1,000 to $3,000. That cap applies regardless of which type of braces you choose.
After insurance, patients commonly pay between $1,500 and $5,000 out of pocket. Coverage for adults is often more limited or absent entirely, so adult orthodontic patients frequently pay closer to the full sticker price than children do.
What drives the cost and how to manage it
Beyond braces type, the main cost drivers are treatment length and case complexity, since severe crowding or bite problems require more time and more frequent adjustments. Geographic location and the orthodontist's experience also move the price.
Many orthodontists offer in-house payment plans that spread treatment over the 18-to-30-month course, and dental savings plans or FSA/HSA dollars can lower the effective cost. Getting consultations from more than one provider helps you compare both the price and the recommended treatment.
Frequently asked questions
- Which type of braces is cheapest?
- Traditional metal braces are the most affordable, generally $3,000 to $7,000, compared with ceramic ($4,000-$8,500) and lingual braces ($8,000-$13,000).
- How much do braces cost with insurance?
- Plans with orthodontic benefits often cover about 50% up to a lifetime maximum of $1,000 to $3,000, leaving most patients paying $1,500 to $5,000 out of pocket.
- Why do braces prices vary so much?
- The braces type, treatment length, severity of the orthodontic problem, location, and the orthodontist's experience all affect the final cost.
Researched and edited by Calvin Lauderdale, Lead Researcher & Editor. Figures on this page were verified against the sources above as of June 23, 2026.