A clear guide for families in Santa Monica
If you are researching the cost of braces or clear aligners you will notice wide price ranges online. That is normal. Orthodontic care is highly personalized and the fee depends on your goals your bite and how long treatment will take. No two cases are exactly alike. American Association of Orthodontists
What actually drives the price
- Type of treatment and materials
- Case complexity and total time in treatment
- How often visits are needed and the level of monitoring
- Retainers and follow up to protect your results
- Insurance benefits and whether you use HSA or FSA funds
Orthodontic care can be done with traditional metal braces ceramic braces lingual braces or clear aligners. Each option has different clinical needs and visit patterns which influences cost. Cleveland Clinic
Typical ranges you will see online
Below are national ranges reported by reputable sources. These are not our office fees. They are shown to help you understand the landscape.
- Metal braces often fall around the mid-thousands in the United States depending on complexity and length of care. Consumer comparison studies commonly cite totals in the several thousand dollar range. ConsumerAffairs
- Ceramic braces and lingual braces can be higher because of materials and chair time. Independent finance and patient education resources list average ceramic and lingual options above basic metal setups. CareCredit
- Clear aligners such as Invisalign are usually comparable to braces overall with simple cases on the lower end and complex cases on the higher end. Invisalign publicly notes that cost is determined by the doctor based on complexity and the number of aligners required. Invisalign
How insurance usually works
Dental plans handle orthodontics differently than routine care. Many PPO plans cover a percentage of treatment up to a lifetime maximum rather than an annual maximum. It is common to see lifetime orthodontic maximums in the low thousands. Waiting periods and age limits may apply so it helps to check your plan details early. Guardian Life
Why the first exam matters
A thoughtful exam allows us to measure airway posture bite muscle patterns and growth potential in addition to crowding. With that information we can outline time in treatment options to reach your goals and a precise written fee. This protects you from generic quotes that might not fit your case.
Ways to make treatment fit your budget
- Transparent written estimate with the timeline and what is included
- Payment options that spread costs over active treatment
- Use of HSA or FSA funds when eligible
- Coordination of any orthodontic insurance benefits
- Retainer plan so your results stay stable
Kids teens and adults
You are never too late to improve function and confidence. Many adults choose airway-conscious options that also help with clenching and headaches while teens and growing kids often benefit from guidance that supports nasal breathing and healthy development.
What you will receive at The Dentist Lounge
- A complete evaluation that looks at teeth bite jaw posture airway and habits
- Clear treatment paths including braces or aligners when appropriate
- A written plan with time in treatment and a fee that fits your goals
- Supportive prevention guidance so daily habits protect your investment
Next step
Schedule a consultation in our Santa Monica office so we can review your options and provide a precise written estimate for your case.
Quick answers
Why do some offices quote very different numbers for the same person
Training approach monitoring frequency and included follow ups can vary. So can the complexity of a plan even if the appliances look similar.
Are aligners always cheaper than braces
Not always. Aligners and braces are often comparable. Cost depends more on case complexity and time than on the appliance alone. Invisalign
Will insurance cover adult orthodontics
Some plans include adult benefits and some do not. When coverage exists it often pays a percentage up to a lifetime max and then stops. Guardian Life
What about retainers
Every plan needs retainers. They protect your results and are part of the total cost conversation during your consultation.