Quick Answer from a Board-Certified Orthodontist
In Escondido and North County San Diego, orthodontic treatment typically costs:
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Braces: $4,000 – $7,500
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Invisalign / clear aligners: $4,800 – $8,000
The exact cost depends on case complexity, treatment length, and the type of orthodontic system used. At our Escondido orthodontic office, we strive to make treatment affordable — so your dream smile is not out of reach.
What Affects the Cost of Braces or Invisalign?
Orthodontic fees are not one-size-fits-all. Here are the biggest factors that influence cost:
1. Case Complexity
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Mild spacing or crowding or a retreat/ relapse case = lower cost
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Severe crowding, bite issues, or jaw discrepancies = higher cost
2. Length of Treatment
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Shorter treatment (6–12 months) typically costs less
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Comprehensive treatment (18–24+ months) costs more
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All routine adjustment visits
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Progress aligner checks
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Refinements (for Invisalign cases)
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Emergency visits (loose brackets, poking wires, broken or lost aligners, etc.)
Important to know:
At our office, the cost of treatment includes all scheduled visits for the full length of your care — one fee for ALL appointments.
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3. Type of Treatment
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Innovative Metal braces (Pitts System)
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Clear Custom Ceramic braces (LightForce)
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Clear Aligners
We will review each of these options at the consultation.
4. Are you seeing a Dentist or Orthodontic Specialist?
Board-certified orthodontists with advanced training can often:
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Treat complex cases more efficiently
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Avoid unnecessary refinements
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Deliver better long-term results
- Plan your case with precision and detail
This expertise matters — especially with complicated aligner or braces cases. You don’t want to have to do treatment all over again…
Does Dental Insurance Cover Orthodontics?
Many dental insurance plans offer:
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$1,000–$3,000 orthodontic benefits
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Coverage for both children and adults (plan-dependent)
Our team helps families in Escondido, San Marcos, Rancho Bernardo, Poway, and Valley Center:
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Verify benefits
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Maximize coverage
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Explain out-of-pocket costs clearly
- Make treatment affordable & work for you
Monthly Payment Plans (Yes, We Offer Them!)
Most families choose interest-free monthly payments.
Typical options include:
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Low down payment
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Monthly payments spread over treatment
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Flexible plans that fit busy family budgets
When Should You Get an Orthodontic Consultation?
You should consider an orthodontic evaluation if you or your child have:
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Crowded or crooked teeth
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Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
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Difficulty chewing or jaw issues
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Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Missing teeth and need room for implants
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Concerns about smile appearance
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check by age 7 — but it’s also never too late for adults.
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation
If you’re wondering what braces or aligners would cost for YOU or your family, the best next step is a personalized, free consultation. We can’t wait to meet you! : )
