Many children go to the dentist and find out that they need braces. Braces help fix teeth that are not straight in the mouth. Some parents are alarmed when they find out that their children need braces and worry about the cost. The average cost of braces for children varies depending on what type of braces they get.
Traditional braces are the basic metal braces that are attached to the outer side of the teeth. These braces are typically seen by others when the child's mouth is open. They are the least costly choice in orthodontic braces. The average cost for children's orthodontic metal braces is between £3,250 and £5,200. If a child prefers braces with tooth-coloured ceramic brackets, the cost rises about £325.
Another choice of braces are concealed or lingual braces. These braces are placed behind the teeth. This prevents the braces from being seen from the outer mouth. These braces have an added cost of between £1,300 and £3,250.
Another option for teeth straightening is clear plastic trays. These trays are moulded into the shape of your child's teeth, and they slip over your child's teeth. They are clear plastic aligners that are custom moulded, and your child will get a new aligner every two weeks until the teeth are straightened. They are clear so they are not that visible to others. Clear plastic trays cost between £2,275 and £4,030 for children.
Some children want more decorative orthodontic braces. Braces can be turned into bright colours. They also can be gold- plated. Some children even have fun designs, such as hearts, put onto their braces. Making a child's braces decorative can be an added cost of £3 to £195.
If you have health insurance, see if dental insurance is part of your plan. Many people can save money by using dental insurance to help cover the cost of children's braces. Use an orthodontist in your dental network to save the most money because some insurance companies will not pay as much money to dental providers that are out of their network. Using dental providers out of the network can cost you more money.
You may be able to find discounts on children's braces. Try shopping around first before investing in braces for your child. You may want to check out a dental school instead of a private orthodontist, who would charge higher prices. Also ask your orthodontist if he has a payment plan option so that you do not have to pay the full amount all at once.