CostPrism
Medical Updated June 2026

Braces & Invisalign Cost Calculator

Calculate 2026 orthodontic treatment costs — metal braces, ceramic, Invisalign, or lingual braces — adjusted for treatment length and correction severity.

National avg: $5,500
Range: $3,000 – $9,000
Used by 29,870 people

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What Affects the Cost?

1. Type of Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most affordable at $3,000–$6,000. Ceramic braces (tooth-colored) run $4,000–$7,500. Invisalign costs $4,000–$8,000 for comprehensive treatment, $1,200–$3,500 for Lite (mild cases). Lingual braces (behind teeth) are the most expensive at $6,000–$10,000.

2. Correction Severity & Treatment Length

Mild crowding/spacing: 12–18 months, $3,000–$5,000. Moderate: 18–24 months, $4,000–$6,500. Severe malocclusion: 24–36 months, $5,500–$9,000. Complex cases requiring jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) add $20,000–$40,000 for the surgical component.

3. At-Home vs. In-Office

At-home clear aligners (Byte, Candid, Smile Direct Club alternatives) cost $1,500–$2,500 total for mild corrections. They require no in-office visits but are not suitable for complex cases. Always consult an orthodontist before starting any aligner treatment.

2026 Cost Reference Table

Type / Option Typical Cost Range
Traditional metal braces $3,000 – $6,000
Ceramic / clear braces $4,000 – $7,500
Invisalign Lite (mild cases) $1,200 – $3,500
Invisalign Comprehensive $4,000 – $8,000
Lingual braces (behind teeth) $6,000 – $10,000
At-home aligners (Byte, Candid) $1,500 – $2,500

Frequently Asked Questions

Traditional metal braces cost $3,000–$6,000. Invisalign runs $4,000–$8,000. The national average across all types is $5,500. Dental insurance typically covers $1,000–$2,500 for children, reducing out-of-pocket costs significantly.

Invisalign costs $1,000–$3,000 more than metal braces but is removable (easier eating and cleaning), nearly invisible, and requires fewer office visits. For adults with mild to moderate crowding, Invisalign's convenience often justifies the premium. For severe cases, metal braces may still produce better results.

Find Orthodontists & Compare Pricing

Orthodontic pricing varies 20–40% between practices. Compare before you commit.

Try Byte Clear Aligners — From $1,999 Find Local Orthodontists

Tips Before You Start

  • ✓ Dental insurance often covers $1,000–$2,500 toward orthodontics for patients under 18
  • ✓ Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) cover orthodontics — use pre-tax dollars
  • ✓ At-home aligners (Byte, Candid) cost 60–70% less but are for mild cases only
  • ✓ Ask about in-house payment plans — most orthodontists offer 0% financing
  • ✓ Treatment for adults costs the same as teens — age doesn't affect braces pricing

Cost by State — 2026

Based on national average pricing adjusted for local labor and material costs.