How Much Does it Cost to Remove Braces?

Although most patients are looking for information about the costs and maintenance of orthodontic appliances, we must admit that they all think about their removal even before the treatment begins. The purpose of wearing braces is, in fact, the purpose of this orthodontic treatment that results in a perfectly aligned smile.

Removing the braces is a painless procedure. Most likely, the patient may feel a slight pressure when the brackets are removed, but will not feel any pain. Dismantling the device takes about an hour for each arch.

How Much Does it Cost to Remove Braces Without Insurance?

The average cost for removing braces, without insurance, is anywhere between $310 and $1,100, depending on the area in which you live and the orthodontist you choose. This price range will not include any extra work that may be necessary, like retainers or X-rays. Keep in mind that these costs are estimative and the actual price may be significantly higher.

Factors that influence the price of removing braces

The cost of removing braces without insurance will be influenced by a combination of several factors. One of the most important is the period of time you wore braces. It will be more difficult to remove the braces if you had them for a longer period, which will lead to a cost increase.

The cost is also affected by the complexity of your case. Your orthodontist may have to do extra work to have the braces removed if you have severe misalignment or other dental problems, and this will add to the price.

Also, the orthodontist you choose can influence the price of removing braces. It is important to shop around and compare costs because different orthodontists offer different prices. Though, remember that the lowest price may not be always the best choice. It is recommended to go to an orthodontist who has a good reputation and experience.

Tips for saving money

Take into consideration a payment plan

Take into consideration a payment plan, if you can not afford to pay the entire cost for removing braces upfront. There are many orthodontists that provide payment plans that let you pay in installments over several months. This way it will be easier for you to manage the cost.

Negotiate with your orthodontist

You might also like our articles on the cost of braces, retainers, or teeth gap fixing.

Don’t be shy or afraid to explain to your orthodontist that you don’t have insurance and can’t afford to pay the entire cost at once. Ask if there is any way to lower the price to get your braces removed. Some of them may offer a payment plan or a discount.

Use a dental discount plan

An alternative to dental insurance is the dental discount plans, that offer discount deals on dental services, such as orthodontics. These discounts are not as high as those offered by dental insurance, but they can still help you reduce your expenses when removing the braces.

Shop around

As we already mentioned above, the cost of removing braces depends greatly on the orthodontist you choose. In order to find the best price, shop around and compare costs.

Look for discounts

If you refer a new patient or pay in full, you may get a discount from some orthodontists. Make sure you ask what discounts are available.

How much do the braces cost without insurance?

The average cost of braces is anywhere between $3,100 and $6,100 if you don’t have insurance. This price range will include the cost of the braces themselves and the expenses of any required dental work that has to be done for preparing you for the braces. Also, there may be some other costs you need to consider when getting braces without insurance. These may include the cost of consultations and X-rays.

Keep in mind that the exact price of braces without an insurance plan will vary depending on how complex your case is, the type of braces being used, and any extra work that has to be done. In order to get an accurate estimation of how much you would have to pay for your braces, you should consult with a dentist or qualified orthodontist.

Why Do Orthodontists Charge So Much for Braces?

If you don’t have dental insurance, you will have to pay, on average, around $5,000 for braces. Depending on how long the treatment will take and how severe is the bite issue, the out-of-pocket expenses for orthodontic treatment would be anywhere between $2,600 and $6,100.

These prices are so high because orthodontists are highly trained professionals who have to complete an accredited orthodontic residency program after completing dental school. Moreover, they use state-of-art equipment and technology in order to offer the best possible treatment for their patients.

Also, orthodontists have to buy supplies and materials for their work, as well as pay for employees’ salaries and other costs. All of these expenses are included in the price of braces.

Final words

If you don’t have dental insurance, it may be pretty expensive to remove your braces, but the price may vary from patient to patient depending on the orthodontic needs of each. Before starting any treatment, it is important to talk with your orthodontist about the prices and payment options.

Those who need assistance in paying for removing braces have several financing options that may help them. Braces removal is still possible even without insurance at an affordable price if you plan everything carefully.