The Cost of Braces in Bakersfield CA

Oct 24, 2024 | News

What’s the cost of braces in Bakersfield, CA? If you’re curious, that’s totally understandable.

Many people start by figuring out the cost expectations to get their ideal smile. Fees in our office range from $2700 to over $8000. Our average fee for braces is $5300. Since orthodontic treatment is a process rather than a one-time treatment, several factors influence the overall cost of braces in Bakersfield, CA:

What type of braces do you want?

Whether you choose metal, ceramic, or braces behind the teeth (InBrace) will impact the overall treatment cost. If you are interested in clear aligners, they are typically the same cost as braces.

3D imaging software showing braces cost in bakersfield ca

How much work is needed?

If your treatment needs are complex and require significant adjustments, the fee will be higher than those with minor adjustments with shorter treatment times.

How experienced is your orthodontist?

Experienced orthodontic specialists with successful track records typically charge more than general dentists who provide orthodontic services, or large clinics with a different orthodontist every visit. You might expect that orthodontists who personally treat every one of their patients would charge more than ones who don’t, but that’s not always the case! Be sure to do your homework, meet your orthodontist, and ask a lot of questions.

Do you have insurance coverage?

Your dental insurance plan often covers portions of orthodontic treatment, which reduces the out-of-pocket cost of braces in Bakersfield, CA. Our expert financial coordinator can help you maximize your benefits and make treatment affordable.

Do you need additional treatment?

If your treatment plan requires additional treatments like extractions, surgery, or appliances like bite correctors or expanders, the overall cost will increase accordingly. We will be sure to explain everything so there are no surprises.

In general, orthodontic treatment for patients over the age of 10 years old falls into two categories, and the cost of braces in Bakersfield, CA depends on the type of treatment.

Limited Orthodontic Treatment

This treatment focuses solely on straightening the front teeth without correcting the bite. Fees range from $2,700 to $3,200, depending on whether one or both arches are treated. Not all bite issues allow for this because fixing just the front teeth or a single arch might place teeth in positions where they could be damaged. If we can safely achieve your goals with limited treatment, we will be happy to present it as an option. However, we also have the professional duty to inform you that limited treatment will damage your teeth or bite. When you need comprehensive treatment, we’ll tell you! Don’t be concerned about a cost difference between aligners and braces. In our office, fees for aligners and metal braces are the same.

Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment

This is the more common type of orthodontic treatment, although limited treatment is becoming more popular! It involves straightening all of the teeth and correcting the bite. The fees for comprehensive treatment range from $4,880 to over $8,000. This is based on the level of complexity and type of appliances used. Fees start at $4880 for a straightforward case like simple tooth straightening and minor bite correction for an adolescent. Some cases are more complex and involve severe crowding, extractions, impactions, correcting severe overbites or surgery. Fees for complex cases can exceed $8,000. Fortunately, complex cases are pretty rare. In brief, the average fee for comprehensive orthodontic treatment in our practice is $5,300. In our office, there is no cost difference between braces and clear aligners. Clear braces and InBrace are slightly more expensive.

Payment Plans for Every Budget

OrthoArts partners with OrthoFi to offer in-house, no-interest payment plans that fit various budgets,

with down payments as low as $250 and monthly payments starting at $179.

Orthodontists vs DIY Clear Aligners

When comparing fees between orthodontists and at-home clear aligner companies, things get confusing. These companies advertise lower fees, but they’re not offering the same level of treatment. They’re like a quick oil change shop instead of a trusted mechanic. Clear aligner companies typically provide limited orthodontic treatment that could cause permanent damage to teeth. On the other hand, an orthodontist will only offer safe treatment options. These options might seem more expensive at first, but they won’t hurt you. More importantly, the job will be done right the first time. If you’re a candidate for limited orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, we’re happy to help! Comparatively, our fees are about the same as the DIY aligner companies. We can usually get you started with treatment sooner, too!

What’s included in the Cost of Braces in Bakersfield, CA?

Our treatment fees generally include all x-rays, diagnosis, treatment plan, initial placement of appliances (braces, aligners, etc), periodic adjustments, 3 repair visits, removal, final records, and one set of retainers. Every case is different, and this can vary. We do offer additional services like retainer replacement plans, tooth whitening, night guards, and more. We are happy to build this into your treatment plan.

Meet Your Orthodontist!

Getting braces is a big investment of both time and money. Be sure you’re getting your money’s worth and not wasting your time by meeting your orthodontist before the braces go on. Every patient deserves the opportunity to ask questions about their background, details about your treatment plan, their treatment philosophies, and who will actually be doing your treatment. This is your opportunity to get to know your doctor! Dr. G loves getting to know his patients!

If your orthodontist won’t even meet with you, that’s a sure sign that they’re not willing to put in as much effort as you are. Imagine having plastic surgery and not meeting your doctor until after it’s done. Now that’s scary!

Learn more about all the ways Dr. G and the team at OrthoArts are committed to Bakersfield working families. Our goal is to make your path to a perfect smile swift, pleasant, and affordable. Ready to get started? Reach out today!