Metal Braces Cost: What to Expect and How to Save

Among the most common methods of teeth straightening treatment are metal braces. Metal braces have been around for decades now, and they are usually effective and reasonable. If one is considering getting metal braces in India, then it goes without saying that you have many doubts and queries about its cost. Let's discuss your doubts in detail:

What are Metal Braces?

Metal braces are used for teeth alignment. A wire is put over the brackets, generating force on the teeth. The wire changes the place of the teeth and moves the teeth in the direction towards their more appropriate position. After some time, the wire is tightened thereby shifting teeth towards their right position gradually.

Why Choose Metal Braces?

1. Economical:

They are cheaper as compared to aligners or ceramic braces.

2. Durable:

Metal braces are tough and less likely to break since they are manufactured from high-quality stainless steel.

3. Range of Application:

From simple alignment issues to complex dental problems. They are very effective in the treatment of nearly all types of cases where only teeth-related issues are involved.

4. Availability:

The treatment of straightening teeth with the help of braces is available in almost every dental clinic in India.

Factors Affecting Metal Braces Cost:

A number of factors make the cost of metal braces vary in India. Some of the factors are:

1. Place:

This is one of the main determining factors for the cost of the braces treatment. Braces are costlier in metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru as compared to smaller towns or villages.

2. Dentist Expertise:

The cost would vary depending on the expertise and fame of the treating orthodontist. The more experienced orthodontists charge more for their work.

3. Type of Braces:

Even within metal braces, there are further differences, such as traditional metal braces and self-ligating braces. Self-ligating braces are more costly than traditional metal braces.

4. Treatment Duration:

The longer a patient is supposed to have braces on, the costlier it usually tends to get. That is, the longer the treatment duration, the costlier it gets.

5. Additional Procedures:

Most of the time, teeth alignment treatment needs teeth extraction and jaw surgeries. Such additional procedures increase the treatment price.

6. Facilities:

Better equipped, comfortable facilities having high levels of hygiene may levy higher charges.

7. Follow-up Visits:

Follow-up visits are done on a periodic basis to readjust the braces. The cost of such visits may or may not be included in the initial quote given by the dentist.

Average Cost of Metal Braces in India:

The general cost falls in the range of ₹ 25,000-₹ 45,000. For some specific cases, the price may vary depending on some of the factors mentioned above.

1. In Metro Cities:

For cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore, this treatment ranges from ₹ 35,000 to ₹ 50,000. The dental clinics would surely be better in terms of infrastructure when compared to the tier-2 cities, hence the cost is a bit more.

2. Tier-2 and Tier-3 Cities:

Small towns can cost less as compared to metro cities.

3. Government Hospitals:

The least cost can be availed in Government Hospitals. The cost can be between ₹ 20,000 to ₹ 30,000. However, besides not-so-modern facilities, one must wait much longer for appointments.

Payment Plans and Insurance:

Most dental clinics in India facilitate braces with flexible payment options. You will not have to pay all this amount upfront but rather in monthly instalments over the course of your treatment, which will take approximately 1 year or more.

In general, all aesthetic dental procedures, much like braces, are excluded under insurance policies in India. But again, it is recommended that the details must be clarified with the insurance company itself. Partially, the cost can be claimed under some policies and under conditions of medical necessity.

What Does the Cost Include?

When you pay for metal braces, the fee will often cover the following:

1. Consultation Fees:

This will include all consultations your orthodontist performs during the treatment.

2. Diagnosis Tests:

Including X-rays, 3D scans, and tests that would be needed on the side to conduct the treatment procedure.

3. Braces Fitting:

The cost of the metal brackets, wires, and the procedure for fitting.

4. Adjustments:

Follow-up visits for adjustments and tightening at periodic intervals.

5. Retainers:

In some cases, based on your situation, you may have to wear a retainer after having your braces removed to keep teeth from moving back to their original position.

Other Costs to Consider:

1. Extraction of Teeth:

If extraction is to be done before fitting the braces, then additionally, it may cost about ₹ 500 to ₹ 3,000 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the extraction procedure.

2. Jaw Surgery:

Depending on the severity of misalignments, the cost of such treatment can go much higher as surgery may need to be conducted on the jaws.

3. Retainer Needs:

Retainers need to be worn to maintain the alignment.

4. Additional Cost of Mouth Care Products:

There is a need to use special toothbrushes and special floss, among other mouthwashes, when one has braces, adding to the cost.

How to Get the Best Price?

1. Online Research:

You can get a low price with some online research by shortlisting a few Dentists who are good at treating patients with metal braces. First, look at the prices, go through the reviews of the patients, and then compare the services provided by the Dentist. This will help you find the most suitable dental clinic within your budget. You may ask friends and relatives who have received treatment in the past. A dentist who has a history of more successful patients is likely to give you better results.

2. Pay in Instalments:

Most Dental Surgeons offer their patients the option to pay in instalments. Never hesitate to call your Dentist in advance to find out whether they are offering flexible payment options.

3. College Treatment:

College treatment is cheaper when one seeks treatment for metal braces.

4. Oral Hygiene:

Good care can prevent complications. The orthodontic treatment will easily give you an aligned smile with fewer extra visits, thus minimizing costs.

5. Look out for Discounts:

Sometimes dental clinics run discounts on certain types of dental treatments. You must try to get your braces treatment done while the dentist keeps a discount on such treatments.

Conclusion:

Metal braces are a very effective and moderately inexpensive way of straightening teeth. The cost of metal braces varies a lot in India. It all depends upon the location and expertise of the dentist. Also, the complexity of the dental treatment is an important factor to consider. You can very well expect it to be in the range of ₹ 25,000 to ₹ 50,000 approximately, which you can manage quite efficiently by choosing the right clinic, and the facility of availing payment plans. You must keep in mind that investing in metal braces has nothing to do with money; it's an investment for a lifetime in the health and confidence of your smile.