How Much Does It Cost to Get Braces Removed?
Navigate the costs associated with the final step of your orthodontic treatment, from braces removal to essential follow-up care.
Removing braces marks a significant milestone in an individual’s orthodontic journey, signifying the culmination of dedicated treatment. Understanding the financial aspects associated with this stage is important as individuals transition from active treatment to maintaining their results.
Understanding the Cost of Braces Removal
The cost of braces removal typically ranges from $60 to $250, averaging around $155. However, if removal is not part of the initial comprehensive treatment plan or if a patient transfers orthodontists, the cost might be higher, potentially averaging around $600 without retainers. Several factors influence this fee, including the orthodontist’s pricing structure, geographic location, and the complexity of the original case. For instance, urban areas may have higher costs due to increased overhead.
The type of braces worn can also play a role, as more intricate designs like lingual braces may require a more careful and time-intensive removal process compared to traditional metal braces. In many cases, the removal fee is already bundled into the total cost of the orthodontic treatment agreed upon at the outset, meaning patients pay for it as part of their overall investment rather than as a separate charge at the end.
The Braces Removal Process
The physical process of removing braces is straightforward and typically completed in a single appointment. The orthodontist uses specialized pliers to gently squeeze the base of each bracket, breaking the adhesive bond to the tooth. This detaches the bracket and archwires. The process is quick and involves minimal discomfort, though some pressure may be felt.
After all brackets and wires are removed, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned to remove any remaining adhesive or dental cement. A special instrument polishes the enamel, ensuring the tooth surface is smooth and free from residue. This cleaning and polishing are typically included within the standard removal fee, ensuring the teeth are left clean and ready for the next phase of orthodontic care.
Associated Costs After Removal
Following braces removal, additional costs are incurred for retainers, which maintain the newly aligned teeth. Without retainers, teeth tend to shift back towards their original positions over time. There are two main types of retainers: removable and fixed.
Removable retainers include Hawley retainers, made of metal wires and acrylic, generally costing between $150 and $600 per arch. Clear plastic retainers, such as Essix or Invisalign Vivera, are another popular removable option, costing approximately $100 to $400 per set. Fixed, or bonded, retainers involve a wire permanently cemented to the back of the teeth, usually ranging from $250 to $700 per arch. These retainer costs are typically separate from the initial braces removal fee and are important for long-term orthodontic success. Periodic follow-up appointments may also be necessary for retainer adjustments or checks, representing distinct costs from the initial removal appointment.
Navigating Payments and Options
Dental insurance plans may offer partial coverage for orthodontic treatments, including braces removal and initial retainers, especially if the plan includes specific orthodontic benefits. Orthodontic benefits are often separate from general dental coverage and may have lifetime maximums, and coverage for replacement retainers is often limited. Patients should contact their insurance provider to confirm their coverage for both removal and retainers.
Orthodontic offices often provide flexible payment solutions. Many offer in-house payment plans, allowing patients to pay for treatment in installments, often without interest, though a down payment might be required. Some practices also facilitate third-party financing options, which can offer extended payment periods. Before proceeding, patients should request a detailed cost breakdown or quote from their orthodontist, ensuring transparency regarding all fees for removal, retainers, and any potential follow-up care.