The costs of braces in south Africa are not exorbitant; they are not too expensive compared to what is obtainable in other countries. However, braces can cost up to the price of a car; depending on the type of treatment, and how complex the problem.
It is also important to note that the type of braces (metal or ceramic) will affect the price, and then there can be a huge difference in cost depending on where you make enquiries.
In the end, you can find braces if you are willing to be flexible in the type you want, as the information below will show.
How Much Do Braces Cost In South Africa
As mentioned in the introduction, one thing that can influence the costs of braces is the type. Therefore, these are the different types of Braces and their costs.
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Metal Braces
Estimated Cost: R8,000 – R25,000
Best For: Children, teens, and adults with all levels of misalignment.
Metal braces are the traditional option. This is the most common type of braces which is readily available, and also affordable. They are quite effective; they use metal brackets and wires to align teeth smoothly, making them ideal for both mild and severe cases. This explains why people continue to use them, despite the fact that there are much better and less obvious options available.
However, it must be stated that metal braces can be quite ugly; they are often very obvious when worn, and give an uncanny appearance especially when smiling.
The next one is generally more aesthetic.
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Ceramic Braces
Estimated Cost: R20,000 – R35,000
Best For: Patients who want the braces, but who want to keep it private without attracting attention.
Ceramic braces are far better because they are made of ceramic, which is naturally colored like teeth. That means a person can wear ceramic braces, and nobody will even notice. One can live a public lifestyle while wearing these types of braces, and one’s lifestyle would not be affected at all.
Obviously, ceramic braces are more expensive than the metal ones, but they are usually worth the extra cost.
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Transparent Teeth Braces (Clear Aligners)
Estimated Cost: R25,000 – R50,000
Best For: cases that are not too complex, and when the patient prefers to keep the braces secret.
Transparent braces are indeed a work of genius; they do the work while remaining invisible. They are made from clear plastic that is molded into trays to hold the teeth into place. They fit the teeth cleanly, and gradually work the teeth into position.
These are a more modern approach to braces, and they are good looking, and quite beautiful to look at. However, it must be stated that they seem a bit overpriced; these types braces can cost up to 3 times the price of metal brace.
For such prices, one would expect something a lot more effective, whereas, doctors are not likely to recommend this type of braces for very serious cases.
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Lingual Braces
Estimated Cost: R30,000 – R50,000
Best For: Adults seeking to hide their misalignment issues, while correcting them covertly.
Lingual braces are similar to metal braces but the difference is that they are placed on the back of the teeth, making it look like the person is not wearing any braces at all.
They are very tough and durable because in most cases they are made with metal. These kinds of braces may be considered more worth the money because they are quite expensive, and also very effective in combating misalignment issues.
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Self-Ligating Braces
Estimated Cost: R15,000 – R35,000
Best For: Patients who want efficient treatment with fewer orthodontist visits.
Self-ligating braces are similar to traditional metal braces but, but these ones use a specialized bracket system. The main thing is that they are more comfortable; the design reduces friction; offering faster and more comfortable treatment.
These braces are easier to clean and maintain, and they often fix misalignment issues a lot faster than most other types of braces.
What Other Factors Can Affect Prices Of Braces?
Location: the prices of braces can vary throughout south Africa, depending on the location. For example, it may be possible to get braces for a lower price in a small town, but it may be quite expensive to get the exact same braces in a big city like cape town.
The practice you visit: of course, bigger and more established orthodontists may charge higher prices for braces; this is because they generally spend more to maintain their inventories and other costs associated with their practices. On the other hand, smaller or newer orthodontists may offer braces, and other treatments for cheaper.
Complexity of case: if the misalignment is small and simple, then the braces will also be simple. This means they will most likely not be very expensive to obtain from the orthodontist.
Length of treatment: the length of treatment may depend on the complexity of the treatment. It is one of the reasons why braces may be more expensive. Remember that orthodontists do not just slap braces on patient’s teeth; there are several processes involved.
Here Are Some Tips That Might Help Reduce The Costs Of Braces
Start early: do not defer your treatment. Starting early will help bring down the costs because when you start early, the misalignment is usually small. However, when you wait for a long period of time, the case could go from bad to worse, meaning that the braces and length of treatment make it all a more expensive affair.
Choose a reputable orthodontist: there is no price on experience. A more reputable orthodontist has probably seen the type of case you have a hundred times, and already knows how to proceed with your treatment. A newer orthodontist may be cheaper initially, but you may spend more as time goes on.
Compare Treatment: do not accept whatever prices you are given at one orthodontist; it is a good idea to compare prices at two or more orthodontists, before making a choice. However, it is still good to make sure they are reputable places.
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Conclusion
The costs of braces in south Africa largely depend on the type of braces, the reputation of the orthodontist, and the location. Rather than worry about the prices, it may be better to take steps to reduce the costs. Some tips are provided within the article.