How Much Do Braces Cost In Hawaii?

Getting braces can be an expensive endeavor, especially if you don’t have dental insurance. If you live in Hawaii and are considering braces, you’re probably wondering, “How much do braces cost here?” Luckily, we’ve done the research for you.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: The average cost of braces in Hawaii ranges from $3,000 – $7,500 depending on the type and length of treatment needed.

In the rest of this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the average ranges for metal, ceramic, lingual and Invisalign braces specifically in Hawaii, factors that affect the overall price, ways to lower your costs, and additional considerations for budgeting for your new smile.

Types of Braces and Their Costs in Hawaii

Metal Braces

Metal or traditional braces remain the most common orthodontic option in Hawaii. They involve attaching brackets to each tooth with a metal wire threaded through to slowly shift teeth position. According to surveys, metal braces in Hawaii cost an average of $3,500 – $7,500.

Advantages are their reliability and cost-effectiveness for most basic to complex cases. Disadvantages include being visible and restrictions on eating hard or sticky foods.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces offer a more discreet look with clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets attached to the teeth. According to 2022 Hawaii dental fee reports, ceramic braces range from $4,000 – $8,500 on average – costlier than metal braces.

While less visible, they can stain over time and aren’t as durable for bite adjustments. They combine aesthetics with the effectiveness of fixed straightening appliances.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are affixed to the back of teeth rather than front surfaces, making them largely invisible. This aesthetic advantage comes at a higher cost, however, With fees between $8,000 – $10,000 according to Hawaii orthodontic sites, they are almost twice the cost of traditional metal braces.

Patients also need to adjust to having brackets affixed to their tongue sides of teeth.

Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign clear aligners offer an undetectable teeth straightening solution as a series of BPA-free plastic trays. Hawaii orthodontists typically charge around $3,500 – $8,000 for Invisalign treatment. Aligners need to be replaced every 1-2 weeks over an average of 12-18 months.

While convenient and invisible, aligners may not work as quickly or effectively as braces for complex cases like bite alignment or jaw surgery.

Factors that Impact Braces Cost in Hawaii

Length of Treatment

The longer someone needs braces in Hawaii, the more expensive the total cost will be. Treatments usually last from 18-30 months on average. Those with more complex alignment issues may need braces for 3-4 years, increasing costs for additional adjustment appointments and supplies over that extended timeline.

Type of Orthodontist

Seeing an orthodontic specialist for braces rather than a general dentist typically costs more in Hawaii, but specialists have more extensive training in realigning teeth and jaws. According to the Hawaii Dental Association, braces from a specialist average around $5,500, while a general dentist often charges $4,000-$4,500.

Insurance Coverage

Most dental insurance plans in Hawaii provide at least some orthodontic coverage. On average, plans cover 50% of braces costs up to annual maximums like $1,500–$2,000. Those without orthodontic coverage can expect to pay the full treatment cost out-of-pocket unless other discounts or payment plans are available.

Additional Appliances or Procedures

Complementary appliances or treatments done along with braces can add costs in Hawaii. For example, many patients also need palatal expanders ($1,000) to widen their jaw/palate or retainers ($500+) to stabilize teeth after braces.

More complex cases with surgical elements like exposing impacted teeth or jaw realignment can increase the total price even more.

Ways to Save on Braces in Hawaii

Shop Around and Get Consultations

Getting braces can be pricey, so it pays to shop around. Most orthodontists offer free consultations, so take advantage! Meet with 3-5 practices, compare treatment plans and prices. An Angie’s List survey found braces cost an average of $5,000-$6,000 but ranged from $3,000-$10,000.

Prices vary wildly, so consultations are key to find good value.

Choose Metal over Ceramic

Ceramic braces blend better with teeth, but cost $500-$1,500 more than basic metal braces. Prioritize savings – those Facebook pics with braces will just be funny memories someday! Metal braces work just as well, so stick with these unless appearance is critical.

Ask About Payment Plans

Many orthodontists offer interest-free payment plans to spread costs over time. Most require a down payment of 20%-35%, with the balance paid over 12-24 months. Payment plans make braces more affordable, though check terms – some charge interest if you pay late!

Look Into Dental Schools and Orthodontic Group Practices

Dental students need patients to practice on, and often charge 30%-60% less for braces. Care is supervised by experienced faculty, so outcomes are solid. Orthodontic group practices can also save 20% or more through economies of scale.

Consultations and references help find reputable options to save big.

Estimating Additional Costs

Monthly Appointment Fees

In addition to the base cost of braces, there are usually monthly appointment fees to cover tightening and monitoring as your teeth adjust. These can range from $50-100 per visit depending on your orthodontist.

With the average treatment length being 18-24 months, you’re looking at an extra $900-2400 over the course of treatment.

Initial Records, Photos and X-Rays

Before treatment begins, your orthodontist will take photos of your teeth, detailed dental impressions, and x-rays. These records allow them to create a customized treatment plan and monitor your progress. The initial records fee is usually around $250-500.

Some orthodontists roll this into the total treatment cost, while others charge it separately.

Retainers

At the end of treatment, most patients need to wear retainers full-time for 6-12 months to hold their teeth in position, then nightly for life after that. There are removable plastic retainers or fixed wire lingual retainers bonded behind the teeth. Retainers typically cost $400-800.

Replacement retainers if one breaks can be up to $300 each time. Maintaining retainers with adjustments and repairs may incur additional fees during the retention phase.

Conclusion

Getting braces in Hawaii can be expensive, with the total cost ranging from $3,000 – $7,500 depending on the treatment type and length. While not a small investment, straighter teeth and an improved smile can greatly boost one’s confidence and quality of life for years to come.

We covered the average cost ranges depending on metal, ceramic, lingual and Invisalign options. We also looked at key factors like treatment length, insurance coverage and choice of orthodontist that impact overall pricing. Finally, we provided some tips to lower your out-of-pocket expenses.

While budgeting the total cost for braces in Hawaii takes some research, understanding these key factors will help you plan for this exciting orthodontic journey.

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