How Much Do Braces Cost in 2026?

Average cost of braces

The national average cost of braces is about $5,645, according to Pearl’s analysis of American Dental Association fee survey data, updated in May 2026. Most cases fall between about $3,680 and $9,650. Your price depends mostly on the type of braces, how complex your bite is and how long treatment lasts.

Source: averages from CareCredit cost data via Becker’s Dental, Sep 2024; ranges from ConsumerAffairs, 2024.

The averages and ranges come from different data sets, which is why CareCredit’s metal average sits near the top of the ConsumerAffairs range. Treat any one figure as a guide, not a quote.

Metal braces are usually the most affordable option, and lingual braces are usually the most expensive, according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). ConsumerAffairs lists clear aligners starting at about $1,000 to $3,000 and going up to about $8,500.

Cost of braces with insurance

Orthodontic coverage works differently from regular dental coverage. According to Flex:

• Plans with orthodontic benefits often pay 25% to 50% of the cost.
• Benefits stop at a lifetime maximum that commonly runs $1,000 to $3,000 per person.
• Most plans cover orthodontics for children under 18, but generally not for adults.

ConsumerAffairs adds that some insurers have waiting periods of up to a year before orthodontic benefits start, so check before you enroll or switch plans.

Because of the lifetime cap, insurance often pays less than half. On a $5,645 case with 50% coverage and a $1,500 maximum, the plan pays $1,500 and you pay about $4,145 (our calculation). The AAO suggests asking your insurer what percentage it covers, the lifetime maximum, any age limits and whether your orthodontist must be in network.

Braces for kids vs. adults

The American Dental Association says bite problems usually show up between ages 6 and 12, and treatment often begins between ages 8 and 14. The AAO recommends a first orthodontic check-up by age 7. Many AAO orthodontists offer that first visit at no cost.

ConsumerAffairs says kids’ braces are often cheaper because young teeth move more easily. Adult treatment tends to cost more because it usually lasts longer, and some adults need other dental work, such as implants or bone grafts, that can add thousands of dollars. Adults also usually pay more out of pocket, since most dental plans limit orthodontic benefits to children.

Braces are one of the bigger costs families face in the preteen and teen years. Our guide to the cost of raising a child shows how they fit into the full picture.

How to pay for braces

Monthly payment plans. Many practices offer in-house plans, often with low or no interest, per the AAO. Flex says offices commonly spread payments over 12 to 24 months after a down payment. Over 24 months, the $5,645 average works out to about $235 a month before insurance (our calculation).

FSA and HSA money. The AAO notes that HSAs and FSAs let you pay with pre-tax dollars. The health FSA limit is $3,400 for 2026 plan years, per IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32 as reported by Hylant. FSAs are generally “use it or lose it,” so time your contributions to the treatment schedule.

Medicaid, CHIP and charity programs. Medicaid and CHIP cover braces for children in many states when they are medically necessary, per Flex. The AAO lists Smiles Change Lives, Gifted Smiles and Smile for a Lifetime as programs for children under 18.

Savings. Since braces usually come up years in advance, starting a sinking fund when your child is young can cover the down payment. Keep it separate from your emergency fund.

Extra costs to ask about

• Retainers. CareCredit’s averages are about $181 for clear plastic, $302 for molded acrylic and $344 for bonded retainers. ConsumerAffairs puts the overall range at $150 to $1,200.
• Repairs. Broken brackets or lost aligners can cost extra. The AAO says following care instructions helps avoid repair costs.
• Extra treatment. Headgear alone can cost about $1,000, per ConsumerAffairs.
• Interest. Outside financing may charge interest, while many in-house plans do not.

Example: metal braces for a teen with insurance

Say your 13-year-old needs traditional metal braces at the CareCredit average, and your dental plan pays 50% up to a $1,500 lifetime maximum.

Sources: CareCredit via Becker’s Dental, Sep 2024; Flex, Oct 2026. Math is our calculation.

1. The cap matters most. Half of $6,343 would be $3,172, but the plan stops at $1,500 (our calculation).
2. Use pre-tax money. Putting the full $3,400 FSA limit toward the bill covers about 70% of your share with pre-tax dollars (our calculation).
3. Ask for the paid-in-full price. The AAO suggests asking about discounts for paying upfront, for siblings or for referrals.
4. Plan for the retainer. If it is not included, add about $181 to $344.

Is it worth paying more for clear or hidden braces?

It depends on what matters to you. Clear aligners average about $1,235 less than metal braces in CareCredit’s data, while lingual braces cost about $2,878 more (our calculation). Ceramic braces sit in between and are less visible than metal. Ask the orthodontist which options fit your case before you compare prices. For more family budgeting help, see our guide to child care cost.

See how we research every number on our method page, or browse more family life costs.