Getting braces is an important decision for your oral health and your lifestyle.
One of your first questions is the cost. You’re not alone; many of our patients ask the same thing.
If you live in Toronto, you may be even more concerned and searching for “How much are braces in Ontario?”.
The price of braces can change a lot depending on a few things, like what type of braces you go for, how long you’re gonna need them, and where the clinic is located.
Let’s look at these factors and the overall cost.
What are Braces?
Braces are devices used by orthodontists to fix dental problems like crooked teeth, overcrowding, misaligned bites (like overbite, underbite, and crossbite), and gaps between teeth.
They work by applying gentle, constant pressure to gradually shift your teeth into the correct spots.
There are many types of treatments (including Invisalign), each with its own cost and benefits.
Braces not only make your smile look better, but also help with:
- Chewing and speaking more easily
- Reducing the chances of tooth decay and gum disease
- Easing jaw pain and preventing wear on your teeth
Typically, treatment lasts anywhere from 12 to 36 months, depending on how complicated the dental issues are, which also affects the overall cost.
How Much Do Different Types of Braces Cost in Ontario?
In Ontario, the average cost for braces is around $7,604, but that can change based on the type you choose.
Metal Braces
These usually range from $3,000 to $7,000 and take about 1 to 3 years to straighten your teeth.
Metal braces are the go-to option because they’re affordable and durable.
They have metal brackets stuck to your teeth connected by wires and tiny elastic bands.
You can eat pretty much anything with them, and they don’t stain easily.
Ultimately, it depends on what your teeth need.
Clear Aligners
Expect to pay between $3,000 and $6,000 for clear aligners, with treatment lasting about 1 to 2 years.
Clear aligners are less visible and more comfortable than other options.
These removable plastic trays gently shift your teeth and are usually more comfortable than metal braces.
You can take them out when you eat, and brands like Invisalign let you preview how your smile will look post-treatment.
Plus, you don’t have to visit the orthodontist as often; just switch to new trays when needed.
Many general dentists now offer clear aligners for simpler alignment issues.
Ceramic Braces
These typically cost between $4,000 and $8,000 and take 1 to 3 years to work their magic.
Ceramic braces are less noticeable because they blend in with your teeth.
They’re great for fixing misalignments, overbites, underbites, and crowding.
Although they aren’t as tough as metal braces, they resist discoloration pretty well.
They’re smoother and more comfortable but require more care since they stay on your teeth.
It’s best to avoid hard or sticky foods that might mess them up.
Lingual Braces
These are priced between $8,000 and $10,000 and take about 1 to 3 years to sort out your teeth.
Lingual braces work like metal and ceramic ones, except they attach to the back of your teeth, making them practically invisible.
This is a solid choice if you want effective treatment without showing any braces, just like clear aligners.
However, they can be tricky to clean since they’re hidden and putting them on takes a bit longer, which drives up the cost.
What Influences the Cost of Braces in Ontario?
When thinking about how much braces cost in Toronto, there are a bunch of factors to consider.
Your Orthodontist
The cost can really depend on your orthodontist’s experience and where their practice is located.
If they have specialized training or are known for tackling tricky cases like jaw issues or serious misalignments, they’re likely to charge more.
Technology
If a practice uses the latest tech, like 3D scanners or CAD tools, the fees might be higher to cover the costs of that gear.
But the upside is these tools can make the treatment more precise and comfortable.
Type of Braces
Traditional metal and ceramic braces usually cost less.
On the other hand, lingual braces, which sit behind the teeth, and clear aligners like Invisalign are pricier.
Lingual braces require extra skill to put in, while aligners offer the convenience of fewer visits.
Complexity of the Treatment
If your case is more complicated, you might need extra tools like palate expanders or even surgery, which can drive up the costs.
Expanders create space in a crowded mouth and need regular adjustments.
If surgery is involved, it generally requires teamwork with oral surgeons, which adds to the bill.
Age
Kids and teens often have shorter and simpler treatments with interceptive orthodontics, so those tend to be less expensive.
Adults, however, can have more complex issues since their jawbones are fully developed, making treatment longer and pricier.
Treatment Plan and Duration
For minor cases, fewer visits are required, making them cheaper overall. But for serious misalignments, treatments can take longer and involve more sessions.
The longer you wear braces, the more maintenance and appointments you’ll need to factor in, each coming with its own fees.
Braces Payment Options in Toronto
At this point, you might be wondering: Are braces covered by dental insurance? Are there cheaper braces?
Let’s see.
Dental Insurance
Many dental insurance plans in Ontario and across Canada help cover some costs for braces, especially for children and teenagers.
So, how much do braces cost in Canada with insurance?
Coverage usually ranges from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on your plan.
Most orthodontic insurance plans cover about 50% of the treatment costs, so that’s something to keep in mind.
Payment plans
If you don’t have insurance or your coverage is limited, don’t worry. Many orthodontic clinics offer payment plans.
These plans allow you to pay for braces in monthly installments, sometimes with low or no interest.
Health Spending Accounts
Another option could be Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) offered by your job.
In Summary
How much are braces in Toronto and the rest of Ontario is a question tied to several factors.
In this guide, you’ll find a way to make a rough estimate.
Now that you know the price, we recommend booking an appointment with us.
This way, we can check your oral health and determine which type of braces will work best for you through a personalized treatment plan.