Cost of Braces Less for Teens Than Adults, Finds The Wealthy Dentist

The cost of braces for teens is an average of $5,100, finds a poll of braces dentists and orthodontists by dental practice marketing resource The Wealthy Dentist. The cost of orthodontics for teens from general dentists was about $4,900, while the average orthodontist charges $5,300.

In addition, the cost of braces varies by region. Orthodontic treatment for teens costs the most in the Northeastern and Pacific states, averaging over $5,200. Affordable braces for teens can most easily be found in the Western mountain states, where they are only about $4,300. In addition, braces cost about $600 more from urban dentists than rural ones.

Of course, the cost of dental braces will always depend on the degree of work required. "I charge the same fee for all Phase II cases, whether on a teen or adult," explained a Nebraska dentist. "Phase I ortho fees depend on the appliances used to intercept growth and development."

Dental braces typically cost significantly less for teens than for adults. Since teens' teeth are still developing, it can be easier to straighten crooked teeth. It is far easier to fix major tooth or jaw problems with teen or children's braces. Adult braces can only move teeth so much before orthodontic surgery is required.

Orthodontists are dentists who have received several extra years of training in orthodontics, so they are qualified to handle cases that may be too intensive for a general or pediatric dentist. "Minor tooth movement is within the purview of dentist and pedodontist," said a Minnesota dentist, "Treatment planning for major malocclusions is better done by an orthodontist and an oral surgeon."

"Teenagers and braces are a great combo!" said Jim Du Molin, dental management consultant and founder of dental website The Wealthy Dentist. "There's a reason teen braces are a time-honored rite of passage. It's because the teen years really are the best time to straighten crooked teeth."

Learn more about other Wealthy Dentist surveys on topics such as sedation dentistry, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, braces, wisdom teeth, and dentures. Sign up for Jim Du Molin's weekly newsletter and get his insight into dental practice management.

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Jim Du Molin
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