Orthodontic treatment is an investment—one that pays off in the form of a healthier bite, improved confidence, and long-term oral wellness. But if you're like many New Hampshire families, cost is one of the first questions you have when considering braces or Invisalign.
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all price tag for orthodontic care. Treatment costs can vary based on a number of factors, including the type of treatment, the complexity of the case, and the duration of care. Fortunately, there are also more ways than ever to make orthodontics affordable and manageable—especially with flexible financing and insurance options available throughout the Granite State.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what affects orthodontic costs in New Hampshire, what you can expect to pay, and the financing solutions available to help you or your child get the care you need—without financial stress.
What Affects the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment?
While every patient’s needs are different, there are a few core elements that play a role in determining treatment cost:
1. Type of Treatment
- Traditional metal braces are often the most cost-effective option.
- Clear ceramic braces typically cost more due to their materials and aesthetic appeal.
- Self-ligating systems (like the Norris or Damon brackets) may cost slightly more but often require fewer visits.
- Invisalign and clear aligners usually come at a higher price point due to custom manufacturing and lab fees.
2. Complexity of the Case
Mild crowding or spacing may require a shorter, simpler treatment plan than a case involving bite correction, jaw misalignment, or multiple phases of care. More complexity means more appointments, more materials—and more time.
3. Length of Treatment
Most orthodontic treatments last between 12 and 24 months, but longer cases naturally incur more cost due to extended oversight, additional materials, and more visits.
4. Retainers and Follow-Up Care
Some treatment packages include retainers and follow-up appointments; others may price them separately. Be sure to ask about post-treatment costs when evaluating options.
Average Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in New Hampshire
Costs can range depending on the provider and your specific needs, but here are some general ballpark figures to expect in New Hampshire:
Treatment Type-Estimated Cost Range:
- Metal Braces $4,000 – $6,000
- Ceramic Braces $5,000 – $7,000
- Self-Ligating Braces $5,500 – $7,500
- Invisalign / Clear Aligners $5,000 – $8,000
- Early Intervention (Phase I) $2,000 – $4,000
These figures may vary based on your location in the state and the technology offered by the orthodontist. Many practices now include digital scans, 3D imaging, and retainer follow-ups as part of the overall cost.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces or Invisalign?
In many cases—yes. Orthodontic coverage is often included in dental insurance plans, particularly for dependents under 18. However, coverage levels vary widely.
Here’s how to navigate orthodontic insurance in New Hampshire:
- Check for age limits — Some plans only cover treatment for minors.
- Look at lifetime maximums — Most orthodontic benefits cap at a certain amount (e.g., $1,500–$3,000).
- Review what’s included — Some plans cover diagnostics and retainers, others only cover active treatment.
It’s a good idea to call your insurance provider or work with your orthodontic office’s insurance coordinator to understand exactly what your plan covers.
Flexible Financing Options for NH Families
Worried about paying for treatment all at once? Don’t be. Most orthodontic offices across New Hampshire offer in-house financing or third-party financing to make care more affordable.
Common financing options include:
- Monthly payment plans — Break the total cost into manageable monthly payments, often with no interest.
- Down payments — Many plans require a small upfront payment to get started.
- Flexible terms — Some offices allow you to stretch payments across 12–24 months or more.
- CareCredit or other healthcare financing — External financing companies offer healthcare-specific credit lines with low or no interest promotions.
Many families appreciate that these options allow them to start treatment right away—without waiting to save the full amount upfront.
Using FSA or HSA Funds for Orthodontics
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), you may be able to use those pre-tax funds to cover orthodontic expenses.
Benefits include:
- Lowering your out-of-pocket cost by using tax-free dollars
- Covering everything from exams and X-rays to aligners and retainers
- Immediate access to funds at the beginning of the plan year (with FSAs)
Just be sure to check the rules of your specific account—some plans have use-it-or-lose-it deadlines or require pre-approval for certain treatments.
Tips for Getting the Most Value from Your Investment
Orthodontic care is a significant investment, so it makes sense to maximize every dollar. Here are a few ways to ensure you're getting the best value:
- Ask what’s included in the quoted fee (scans, retainers, refinements, etc.)
- Compare treatment timelines—faster isn’t always better, but efficiency does matter
- Work with an experienced provider to avoid delays or unnecessary refinements
- Stay consistent with appointments and care instructions to avoid added costs
And remember—orthodontics is not just cosmetic. You're investing in your long-term oral health and overall well-being.
Looking for Affordable Orthodontic Care in New Hampshire?
If you're concerned about the cost of braces or Invisalign, you're not alone—and help is available. At Seacoast Braces Miller Orthodontics, we offer transparent pricing, flexible financing, and guidance on insurance benefits from our locations in Exeter and Dover.
Our goal is to make quality orthodontic care accessible to every family in New Hampshire—without compromising comfort, results, or your budget.
Schedule your free consultation today, and let’s build a plan that fits your smile and your finances.