Roughly 6–7 million Americans are in the midst of orthodontic treatment now. And although braces have long been thought of as something adolescents wear, 1 in every three of those people are over 18 years old, proving braces aren’t just for kids.
Whether you’re looking into braces for yourself or your child, here’s a crash course on everything you need to know about orthodontia.
How much do braces cost?
As with any big investment, the first thing you want to know is how much it’s going to cost. In 2026, traditional metal braces typically range from about $3,000 to $7,000, while ceramic (tooth-colored) braces usually run about $4,000 to $8,500. More specialized options like lingual braces (placed behind the teeth) can reach $8,000 to $10,000+.
How do dental braces work?
Dental braces function by applying continuous pressure over a period of time to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The main components of braces include brackets, which are attached to each tooth, and an archwire that connects the brackets and provides the force needed to move the teeth. As the archwire exerts pressure on the brackets, teeth are gently guided into alignment. Periodic adjustments by an orthodontist ensure that the pressure is applied correctly and consistently, facilitating gradual movement. Additionally, elastic bands or other appliances may be used to address specific dental issues, such as correcting bite alignment. This continuous pressure remodels the bone structure, allowing teeth to shift into their desired positions, resulting in a straighter smile over time.
Types of dental braces
There are five different types of braces on the market today, each with their own pros, cons and price points. Here’s a snapshot of some of the advantages and disadvantages of each type.
Metal braces
Cost: $3,000 to $7,000
Overview: Most traditional option, using brackets and wires (often secured with small elastic bands or ties) to gradually shift teeth.
Pros: Usually the least expensive, colored bands available
Cons: Most noticeable, hard and sticky foods can be problematic
Clear aligners (such as Invisalign®)
Cost: $3,000 to $8,000
Overview: A series of clear, removable trays that fit over your teeth (similar to a thin mouth guard).
Pros: Virtually invisible, removable, no restrictions on what you can eat
Cons: Trays can be easily stained or misplaced, results may take longer depending on complexity and wear time
Ceramic braces
Cost: $4,000 to $8,500
Overview: Tooth-colored braces designed to blend in more naturally with your smile.
Pros: More discreet than metal braces
Cons: Can stain more easily and require careful upkeep, hard and sticky foods can be problematic
Lingual braces
Cost: $8,000 to $10,000+
Overview: Braces that are installed behind your teeth, making them hard to see from the front.
Pros: Hidden by your teeth
Cons: Most expensive, difficult to clean, tongue irritation is common, longer and more frequent appointment times may be needed
How long do you wear braces?
The length of time you can expect to wear braces varies depending on the severity of your case, as well as your treatment method. On average, braces are worn from 18 months to 2 years. However, adults may need to wear braces for up to 3 years to achieve desired results.
Foods to avoid with braces
Except for clear aligners, which are removed before eating, you’ll need to be careful with what you eat to avoid damaging your braces. In a nutshell, foods that are hard, tough, chewy, sticky or crunchy should be avoided as much as possible. These are things like raw carrots, beef jerky, taffy, peanut butter and popcorn. Now, that’s not to say you can’t eat fruits and veggies that are hard when raw. Just be sure to slice them up first, so you aren’t biting into them with your front teeth.
How to clean braces
It’s very easy for food to get stuck in your brackets and wires, so don’t slack on your oral hygiene. Look into getting an interdental toothbrush, in addition to your regular toothbrush. Interdental toothbrush bristles are shaped like a tiny Christmas tree so it can clean under the wires and around the brackets of your braces. You’ll want to be sure that you also floss regularly, which can be tricky at first. Check out Oral B’s article on “How to Floss with Braces” for a step-by-step guide.
Does dental insurance cover braces?
Not all dental insurance plans will cover orthodontics. If they do, it is usually covered at 50% but only for patients who are 18 years old or younger. That can be a huge financial burden to those who are 18 and older. Plus, even with dental insurance, there is often a lifetime limit of around $1500.00, after which you’ll pay out of pocket for the rest of your orthodontic care. Make sure to factor in aftercare, which requires a retainer to keep your teeth from reverting to their previous positions. In 2026, a wire retainer typically costs about $150 to $500, while clear plastic retainers usually range from $300 to $800 (depending on the type and whether you’re replacing a lost or broken set).
How to get affordable braces
If your dental insurance plan doesn’t cover orthodontics, you’re 18 or older, or you simply want to pay less for braces, look into a dental savings plan. A dental savings plan is an affordable alternative to dental insurance. You pay an annual membership fee that starts at around $80 and get access to a network of dental professionals who provide their services at a 10% to 60% discount. Typical savings for orthodontic care with a dental savings plan are 20% off the dentist’s usual fees.