How much metal braces cost

Updated October 12, 2026.

Metal braces usually cost $3,000 to $7,000 in the US before insurance. They are the most common type of braces and usually the most affordable, according to the American Association of Orthodontists.

What you get for the price

Metal braces are high-grade stainless steel brackets attached to each tooth and connected by a wire (AAO). The orthodontist bonds a bracket to each tooth, places a thin, flexible archwire over the brackets, and holds the wire in place with tiny elastic bands called ligatures (Cleveland Clinic). Over the following months the wire puts steady pressure on the teeth and moves them into place, and elastic bands between the jaws can be added to help correct the bite (AAO).

They are the most common type of braces and are known for being durable and effective for a wide range of orthodontic problems (AAO). You can choose clear or tooth-colored ties to make them less noticeable, or bright colors if you prefer (Cleveland Clinic).

What the price usually includes

Two quotes for metal braces can look very different because offices bundle costs differently. Some orthodontists offer all-inclusive pricing that covers the braces, all appointments including emergency visits, and the retainers after treatment (AAO). Before you compare prices, check what each quote covers:

• Records and the first visits. At the start, the orthodontist takes records such as X-rays and works out your treatment plan (AAO). Ask whether these are part of the treatment fee.
• Adjustment visits. You will usually go back every 4 to 12 weeks so the orthodontist can adjust the braces (AAO). These should be in the fee for the whole treatment.
• Repairs. Ask whether broken brackets or wires are repaired at no charge. Taking care of your braces helps avoid extra costs for repairs or replacements (AAO).
• Retainers. The first set of retainers is often part of the overall fee, but replacements may cost extra (AAO). A separate retainer can cost $200 to $1,000 (retainer costs).

How long metal braces take, and why it matters for cost

Most people have their braces for 12 to 24 months (AAO). Cleveland Clinic gives an average of about 2 years, with some people finishing in under 12 months and others taking as long as three years (Cleveland Clinic). The orthodontist sets the fee when you start, and the AAO says the type, complexity and length of treatment are what drive it (AAO). A longer, more complex case usually means a quote toward the top of the $3,000 to $7,000 range.

Ask what happens to the fee if treatment runs longer than planned, and whether any adjustments or extra appliances would be charged separately (AAO).

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces look similar to standard metal braces, but the brackets have built-in clips or doors to hold the wire instead of elastic ties. The AAO says this reduces friction and generally allows a longer time between appointments, and the brackets can be stainless steel or ceramic (AAO). Damon is one well-known brand.

We haven't found a reliable published price range for self-ligating braces, so we don't quote one. If an orthodontist recommends them, ask for the price of standard metal braces too, so you can see the difference.

Metal braces compared with the other options

Metal braces have the lowest starting price in CareCredit's 2022 ranges. In its 2024 figures, though, the average for metal ($6,343) was higher than the averages for ceramic braces and clear aligners. We show both because they come from the same company but measure different things: a typical range and an average. Your own quote depends far more on your case and your orthodontist than on either figure.

Living with metal braces

Daily life with braces affects your cost, because broken brackets and wires mean extra visits. The AAO says to steer clear of hard, sticky, crunchy and chewy foods to avoid breaking a bracket or popping a wire out (AAO), and Cleveland Clinic names nuts, caramels and crunchy fruits and vegetables among the foods to avoid for the whole time you wear braces (Cleveland Clinic). Cut fruit and vegetables into small pieces instead.

Expect some soreness for a few days after the braces go on and after adjustments, and some irritation of the lips, cheeks or tongue. Orthodontic wax over a rough bracket helps (Cleveland Clinic). Ask your orthodontist which pain reliever to use. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing around the brackets matters more than usual, because plaque builds up around them (Cleveland Clinic).

Ways to pay less for metal braces

• Ask about discounts for paying in full, for several family members in treatment, or for referrals (AAO).
• Choose an in-house payment plan. The AAO says these are typically spread over 12 to 24 months after a down payment and are often interest-free (AAO).
• Pay with pre-tax HSA or FSA money. For 2025 you can put up to $3,300 into a health FSA (IRS Publication 969).
• For children, check Medicaid and charitable programs that treat children under 18 at low or no cost (AAO).
• Get two or three written quotes. Most AAO orthodontists offer low-cost or free first consultations (AAO).

Metal costs in your state

Prices follow local living costs. Using 2024 state price levels, the typical price for metal ranges from about $4,350 in Arkansas to $5,550 in California. See every state on braces cost by state, or run the calculator for metal.

Is it worth the price?

With insurance

If your plan covers orthodontics, it typically pays a share of the fee up to a lifetime maximum. At 50% coverage, a $3,000 to $7,000 treatment would leave you about $1,500 to $3,500 if the plan had no maximum. Most plans have one: with a $2,500 lifetime maximum, as in Delta Dental of Virginia's example, you would pay about $1,500 to $4,500. Some plans only pay what standard metal braces would cost and leave you the difference for a pricier option (Healthline). Read more about how orthodontic insurance works.