Braces for Adults

Misaligned teeth are often associated with childhood and adolescence. Yet more and more adults today are deciding to have their teeth corrected. The reasons are varied, and the methods available have advanced considerably in recent years.

Cost of braces for adults in Austria

In Austria, the cost of orthodontic treatment for adults is not covered by public funds – unlike free braces for children and teenagers under 18 with severe misalignments. This often leads to uncertainty about the actual cost of orthodontic treatment for adults.

Fee guidelines of the Austrian Dental Chamber

The Austrian Dental Chamber publishes fee guidelines for orthodontic treatment every year. These guidelines serve as a reference for all reputable dentists and orthodontists. For a complete orthodontic treatment – whether with fixed braces or clear aligners – the recommended price is €7,808 on average. This amount is intended to include all costs: initial diagnostics, all materials and the treatment itself, including check-up appointments and removal of the braces.

Price ranges and types of treatment

Prices can vary depending on the complexity of the treatment. The Dental Chamber considers a deviation of up to 30 per cent above or below this figure to be appropriate. This results in the following guide values:

• Simple treatment: from around €5,467
• Average treatment: around €7,808
• Complex treatment: up to €10,150

Factors that influence the cost of orthodontic treatment

The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on various factors, such as the severity of the misalignment, the chosen treatment method (fixed braces vs. aligners) and the duration of the treatment.

A warning about budget providers

In Austria and other countries there are cut-price providers of aligners who advertise significantly lower prices at the start of treatment. The Austrian Consumer Information Association (VKI) warns against such budget providers. Quote: “Behind Dr.Smile is DZK Deutsche Zahnklinik GmbH, Urban Technology GmbH. This German company has no authorisation to carry out dental work in Austria. Dr.Smile is therefore in breach of the Austrian Dentists Act.”
Source: Braces from the internet – Dr.Smile: complaints, lawsuits, judgments (in German)

Financing options

So that the cost of orthodontic treatment is not a barrier for patients, some institutes offer various options to make treatment affordable:

• Interest-free instalment plans
• Discounts for payment in full upfront and tax benefits (extraordinary expenses in the employee tax assessment)
• Partial reimbursement of costs by private health insurers

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of orthodontic treatment for adults in Austria averages around €7,808, with variations possible depending on the complexity of the treatment. It is important to seek advice from reputable dentists and orthodontists and to be cautious of budget providers. Various financing options can help to manage the costs.

Why so many adults have their misaligned teeth corrected

Aesthetics and self-confidence: A flawless smile can boost self-confidence. Many adults who did not have orthodontic treatment as children decide to do so in adulthood, mainly for aesthetic reasons. A beautiful smile brings success in professional and private life, while crooked teeth often lead to others talking behind your back.

Health reasons: Even a slight deviation from the ideal position can lead to functional limitations. Front teeth that are slightly tilted make it harder to eat solid food and cause speech problems.

Crowded teeth carry a significantly increased risk of plaque, tooth decay and periodontitis. Overloading of individual teeth causes lasting damage to the jaw and gums.

And that is far from all: jaw misalignments cause tension in the surrounding muscles, which in turn can lead to headaches, ear problems (tinnitus), neck pain and back pain. Digestive problems due to impaired chewing as well as insufficient oxygen supply, tiredness and lack of energy are further possible long-term consequences.

Orthodontic treatment methods for adults

Traditional/fixed braces: These are the metal braces or brackets many people know from their youth. They are often the most economical option but are less desirable for many adults because of their conspicuous appearance. Fixed braces can correct all types of misalignment.

Ceramic brackets: These brackets are less noticeable than conventional metal brackets and can perform the same function, but they are often somewhat more expensive.

Lingual braces: Here the brackets and wires are attached to the inside of the teeth, so they are invisible from the outside. They are aesthetically advantageous but can be a little uncomfortable at first.

Invisible aligners: Clear aligners such as Invisalign are transparent trays that fit over the teeth. They are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating or cleaning the teeth. This is by far the most popular method for adults today. No wonder – the treatment is invisible and quick, and almost all misalignments can now be corrected with it.

Summary: braces for adults

Orthodontic treatment for adults is more varied and accessible today than ever before. Whether for aesthetic or health reasons, it is never too late to opt for a healthy, beautiful smile. It is important to seek advice from an orthodontic practice and to choose the method that best suits your individual needs. It is an investment in your own health and well-being.

Where can adults get braces?

Both Viennese institutes listed on this page treat not only children under the free braces scheme but also adults – with the full spectrum from fixed brackets to clear aligners. Simply arrange a no-obligation consultation: