The earlier orthodontic issues are caught, the easier they are to treat. That’s why many parents in Washington start exploring braces for their children as early as age 7. Whether it’s crowding, bite alignment, or jaw development, addressing problems early can lead to smoother treatment and fewer complications down the line.
If you’re starting to think about braces for your child, it helps to know what costs to expect. This guide breaks down average pricing by age, explains what affects the cost of treatment, and highlights the options available to help families budget with confidence.
How Much Do Braces Cost for Kids in Washington?
The cost of braces for kids can vary quite a bit depending on age, treatment type, and how complex their case is. On average, parents in Washington can expect to pay anywhere between $3,000 and $7,000 for traditional braces.
Here’s a quick look at the estimated cost range by age:
- 8 to 10 years old (Phase 1 treatment): $2,500 to $4,500
- 11 to 12 years old: $4,000 to $6,000
- 13 to 14 years old: $5,000 to $7,000
These prices typically include things like the initial exam, records, the braces themselves, adjustments, and routine checkups. However, the final cost can depend on the length of treatment and whether your child needs early intervention before full braces.
At Washington Orthodontics, we’ll walk you through a custom treatment plan during your child’s consultation so you know exactly what to expect before getting started.
What Impacts the Cost of Braces for Children?
Not all orthodontic treatments are the same, and a few key factors can affect how much you’ll end up paying for your child’s braces:
Type of Braces
- Metal Braces are the most common and usually the most affordable.
- Ceramic Braces blend in more with the teeth but often cost a bit more.
- Clear Aligners (like Invisalign) can be an option for some older kids and teens but may come with a higher price tag depending on complexity.
Age and Treatment Stage
Younger children who need Phase 1 treatment (early intervention) might start with a shorter, simpler round of braces to guide jaw growth. Later, they may need a second phase of full braces. Teens typically go straight into full treatment.
Length of Treatment
The more time your child needs in braces, the more appointments, adjustments, and supplies are involved, which can affect overall cost.
Orthodontic Complexity
Issues like severe crowding, impacted teeth, or jaw misalignment can require additional tools or longer treatment times, which may raise the cost.
Location and Provider
Treatment costs can vary slightly depending on where you live and your orthodontist’s experience. At Washington Orthodontics, we provide high-quality care at transparent pricing—so there are no surprises.
What Is Phase 1 Orthodontics (and How Much Does It Cost)?
Phase 1 treatment, also known as early interceptive orthodontics, is designed for younger children—typically between ages 7 and 10—who show early signs of bite or jaw development issues. This stage focuses on guiding jaw growth, creating space for incoming teeth, and correcting harmful habits like thumb sucking or mouth breathing.
Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment, but for those who do, it can prevent more serious complications later on and reduce the time needed in full braces as a teen.
What it usually includes:
- Orthodontic evaluation and records
- A short round of braces or appliances
- Monitoring visits during dental development
- Follow-up planning for Phase 2 (if needed)
Typical cost range in Washington: $2,500 to $4,500, depending on the complexity of treatment and length of care. At Washington Orthodontics, we’ll let you know if early treatment is recommended and walk you through the options during your child’s initial exam.
Do Dental Insurance Plans Cover the Cost of Braces for Kids in Washington?
In many cases, yes—dental insurance can help offset the cost of braces for children. Some plans include orthodontic benefits as part of their standard coverage, while others may offer it as an add-on.
Here’s what to know:
- Coverage typically includes 25% to 50% of the cost, up to a lifetime maximum (often between $1,000 and $2,500).
- Waiting periods may apply, especially if the plan is new.
- Pre-authorization is often required before starting treatment.
- Coverage is more common for dependents under 18, but it varies by plan.
If you’re not sure what your plan includes, our team at Washington Orthodontics can help you verify your benefits and estimate your out-of-pocket costs before starting treatment.
Bonus Tip: You can also use HSA or FSA funds to help pay for orthodontic treatment, which can lower your total cost through pre-tax savings.
Payment Plans and Financing Options for Families
Braces are a big investment, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay for everything upfront. At Washington Orthodontics, we offer several ways to make treatment more manageable for families.
Flexible Payment Plans: We’ll work with you to create a monthly payment plan that fits your budget. These plans typically spread out the total cost over the course of treatment with no hidden fees.
0% Interest Financing: Qualified patients may be eligible for zero-interest financing through trusted providers like CareCredit or Cherry, giving you the flexibility to start treatment now and pay over time.
Low Initial Down Payments: We keep our down payments as low as possible, so your child can begin treatment without delay.
In-House Options: Don’t want to apply for outside financing? We also offer in-house payment arrangements at many of our locations.
When Should You Schedule Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, kids should have their first orthodontic checkup by age 7—even if they don’t need treatment right away. Early evaluations allow us to catch potential issues before they become more complicated or expensive to fix later on.
At Washington Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive smile assessments for children and teens. During your visit, we’ll check for:
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Jaw alignment and bite development
- Signs your child may benefit from early (Phase 1) treatment
- Whether or not braces are needed now or later
Ready to Get Started?
We’re here to make things easy. Book your child’s consultation at Washington Orthodontics today. Our team will walk you through your options, provide a clear cost estimate, and answer any questions you have along the way!
