Have you ever flipped through a magazine and seen celebs with sparkly, straight teeth? Well, it’s safe to say that we all have! Getting braces has probably been a thought that crossed your mind, especially if you are unhappy with your teeth or have problematic crooked teeth. However, getting braces can be rather pricey. In this article, we take a look at the average cost of braces in South Africa. The cost will depend on the individual condition, frequency of treatment and type of orthodontic device used.
Breakdown of How Much Braces Cost in South Africa
- Invisalign braces cost in South Africa: R48, 000- R110, 000
- Ceramic/ Porcelain Braces cost in South Africa: R40, 000- R60, 000
- Lingual braces cost in South Africa: R50, 000- R110, 000
- Self-ligating braces cost in South Africa: R25, 000- R45, 000
- Metal braces cost in South Africa: R25, 000- R45, 000
- Braces price breakdown
- Medical aid cover on braces
Types Of Braces Available
There are 5 main types of braces available on the South African market. Furthermore, each type of braces is used to treat different conditions. For example, certain patients might have an under-bite or over-bite. In these cases, treatment will differ.
Let’s take a look at the different braces.
Invisalign & Clear Aligners
Invisalign has quickly become one of the most popular types of braces. These braces are almost invisible when worn – sometimes known as ‘invisible braces’. Therefore, it has quickly become a preferred option.
Invisalign braces are also removable and easier to clean. The overall treatment with Invisalign can also be a lot quicker. However, patients with severe cases cannot use Invisalign braces. Ideally, Invisalign is perfect for those who have milder conditions. Furthermore, Invisalign braces are a lot more aesthetic than regular braces.
It should be noted that Invisalign braces are a lot more limited. It might be a lot more difficult to fix complex problems.
The treatment process is rather simple. Patients will need to wear custom-made aligners in two-week increments. Thereafter, the teeth will gradually move to the final position. Patients will also need to visit their orthodontist to track their progress. Once the teeth have been moved into the new position, one of a number of retention appliances must be used to keep them there, usually a permanent retainer or a nightly removable retainer.
Invisalign Braces Cost in South Africa
The Invisalign braces cost in South Africa is higher than regular braces. Patients can expect to pay anywhere between R48, 000 to R110,000. With that said, it’s best to visit your orthodontist to get a proper estimate. Pricing is usually determined by how many aligners are needed.
Ceramic / Porcelain Braces
This type of braces is made of a clear material. Furthermore, Ceramic braces blend in with the patient’s tooth color. Therefore, they look a lot more discreet. Patients often pick these braces if the Invisalign treatment won’t work for them.
Ceramic braces work exactly like metal braces; however, they’re less noticeable. Furthermore, ceramic braces are a lot bigger than regular metal braces.
Ceramic / Porcelain Braces cost in South Africa
Ceramic braces cost in South Africa is moderately higher than metal braces. The total cost can be anywhere between R40, 000- R60, 000. Furthermore, patients will need to pay per stud, per tooth. This can be an additional R350-R500 per stud.
Lingual Braces
This type of braces is placed behind the teeth. Furthermore, Lingual braces are one of the least popular types of braces. This is mainly due to the fact that they are very specialized. Orthodontists who use lingual braces require an advanced skill set.
Lingual braces are completely invisible and are customized to each tooth. Furthermore, patients can enjoy the efficiency of this treatment. Ideally, Lingual braces are a great option for adults because they are unnoticeable.
There are, however, a few concerns about getting lingual braces. Many patients have reported changes in speech. This is mainly due to the fact that the braces are placed behind the teeth. Other concerns include irritation to the tongue and lisps. However, these symptoms do improve in time once the patient is used to the braces.
Types of Lingual Braces:
- INBRACE
- Lingual Liberty
- BRIUS
- Incognito nanobraces by 3M
- Suresmile by Dentsply
- Harmony by American Orthodontics
- Alias by Ormco
Lingual Braces Cost in South Africa
The lingual braces cost in South Africa is higher than traditional braces. Patients can expect to pay anywhere between R50, 000- R110, 000.
Self-ligating braces
This type of braces is available in metal and ceramic form. They are also less noticeable than metal braces.
Self-ligating braces work similarly to traditional braces. However, they use metal instead of elastic ties to hold the wire in place. The brackets and archwire straighten the teeth by clipping onto the wire. Patients have also mentioned that it is easy to clean and maintain self-ligating braces. The smaller brackets are also a lot more comfortable to wear. Furthermore, Self-ligating braces are ideal for those who are sensitive to discomfort.
However, there are a few disadvantages to self-ligating braces. Firstly, they do not apply as much pressure as metal braces. Therefore, the end results may not be as precise. In addition, the small brackets may also be less effective than metal braces.
Self-ligating Braces Cost in South Africa
The Self-ligating braces cost roughly between R25, 000- R55, 000. As previously mentioned, they are very similarly priced to traditional braces. The only difference is the mechanism of the brackets. Self-ligating braces are a great option for those who are sensitive to pain.
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are by far the most popular type of braces. Furthermore, this type of braces can help fix any orthodontic issue. Typically speaking, metal braces are ideal for children and teenagers. However, plenty of adults today also get traditional braces. Also known as Labial braces or outside braces as the appliance is on the outside of the teeth.
Metal braces work by being applied to the teeth with wire. Thereafter, the orthodontist places elastic ties to the wire. This is usually changed every 4-8 weeks by the orthodontist. Patients who opt for metal braces need to practice good oral hygiene. However, metal braces can be very difficult to brush and floss. Fortunately, there are tons of hygiene products specifically made for metal braces.
Metal Braces Cost in South Africa
Metal braces are by far the most affordable braces worldwide. Furthermore, they are extremely versatile and efficient at closing gaps between teeth. Patients can expect to pay anywhere between R25, 000- R40, 000 for metal braces.
How much Braces Cost in South Africa
It’s safe to say that braces are rather pricey to get. However, most orthodontists allow patients to pay a monthly installment. This option makes it a lot more affordable and easy to access. However, some orthodontists might require a small down payment beforehand.
Price breakdown
Consultation: Approximately R500
X-Rays: Approximately R2000
Braces: Price dependent on the type of braces
Post-treatment: Approximately R3000
There are a few things that patients need to take into consideration. Firstly, each patient will need to first go in for a consultation. Usually, the consultation fee costs around R1000-R2000 (depending on the orthodontist). Secondly, the orthodontist will need to examine your mouth. This will require an X-Ray, which may cost approximately R2000.
Thereafter, the orthodontist will study the case to find the perfect treatment. Once this is determined, they will send the patient a quote. This quote will cover the braces cost.
Once the patient has their braces they can pay a monthly installment. Upon completing the treatment they will be required to wear a retainer. The retainer cost may be covered in the overall braces cost. However, it’s important to find this out from the orthodontist.
Medical aid
Most medical aid schemes and health insurance plans cover orthodontics. However, some medical aid schemes might only partially cover treatment depending on the procedure. This is all dependent on the type of scheme the patient has.
Find out more below:
- Momentum health pays for patient’s braces through their dental benefits.
- Discovery medical aid pays for patient’s orthodontic treatment through their savings account.
- Fedhealth covers patient’s braces treatment through their hospital benefit/ saving component
- Bonitas covers the cost subject to the Denis dental protocols
- Medshield requires pre-authorization to cover orthodontics. If a patient fails to get pre-authorized they will be liable to pay for the treatment.
- GEMS pays out from the dental financial limit.
It’s vital to contact your medical aid before getting braces. They will further inform you about what you’re covered for.
The bottom line
Braces are a great fix to anyone’s smile. However, they can be costly in South Africa. Fortunately, there are payment options available. Most patients get to claim at least a portion back from their medical aid. If not, the entire treatment.
However, if you do not have medical aid you can always work out a payment plan. Most orthodontists offer different payment plans depending on the treatment. Patients can pay as little as R2000 a month over 24 months.
It is also vital to choose the correct type of braces per your needs. Traditional braces are a lot more affordable than the other types of braces. For this reason, it’s best to opt for this option if you’re on a budget.
Typically speaking, each patient’s treatment is fully dependent on their case. Some patients may require minimal treatment. This will obviously be less costly and more affordable. However, certain patients might have complex cases. Therefore, they will require a lot more treatment, which may cost more.
Lastly, braces cost in South Africa is significantly lower than in other countries. South Africa is fortunate to have experienced orthodontists with extensive knowledge.
