12 Apr Braces Cost in Malaysia: All You Need to Know
Braces Cost in Malaysia: All You Need to Know
By Island Hospital | Apr 12, 2024 11:00:00 AM
Braces are an essential treatment to correct misaligned teeth and other dental issues, successfully improving oral health and the appearance of your smile.
However, braces are expensive, with prices reaching up to tens of thousands of Malaysian Ringgit. Cost is therefore an important consideration before getting braces.
Thus, this article will guide you on the different types of braces and their costs in Malaysia, and factors which affect the overall cost.
What are Braces?
Braces are orthodontic devices used to straighten your teeth and correct dental issues such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gapped teeth, and malocclusion.
They typically consist of brackets bonded to the teeth and archwires that apply pressure to gradually move the teeth into the desired position.
Although braces used to be uncomfortable and painful metal contraptions, they have since been modified to provide more comfortable and efficient treatments.
They are also less noticeable now, with smaller brackets and options to attach to the back of the teeth. There are also options to customize the colour and shapes of these brackets.
Types of Braces and Their Cost
There are a variety of types of braces available, each with their distinct advantages and considerations. We’ve created a breakdown of braces options, starting from least to most expensive.
Generally, the cost of braces in Malaysia range from RM3,500 to RM25,000. Do note that the prices listed here are estimates, which may vary based on factors such as severity of teeth condition and type of practitioner.
Be sure to consult your orthodontist to determine the best choice for you.
1. Metal Braces
Metal braces are traditional braces made of metal brackets and wires. They are highly durable and effective for treating various orthodontic issues such as dental crowding and bite problems.
Metal braces are popular due to their cost-effectiveness. They are much cheaper compared to other options such as ceramic and invisible braces.
However, they are the most visible type of braces, which may cause some individuals to feel self-conscious. They also have a longer treatment duration, lasting 1 to 3 years, and the presence of brackets and wires make them challenging to clean.
Cost: The cost for metal braces ranges from RM3,500 to RM10,000 in Malaysia.
2. Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces. The main difference being: they have clear or tooth-coloured brackets that blend in with the teeth, making them less noticeable.
If you prefer something more colorful, these braces are also available in a variety of colors. More importantly, ceramic braces are suitable to treat a wide range of dental issues, such as misaligned bites and crowded teeth.
However, individuals who regularly consume staining food such as coffee are advised against choosing this option, as these braces can stain easily.
These braces are also less durable and prone to breaking, compared to metal braces. Lastly, the larger size of the brackets may cause gum sensitivity. The size may also require you to alter speech and eating habits.
Cost: The cost for ceramic braces ranges from RM7,000 to RM 11,000 in Malaysia.
3. Damon Braces
Damon braces are self-ligating braces that use a slide mechanism instead of elastics to connect the archwire, resulting in quicker and more comfortable tooth movement.
There are two types, which are Damon metal braces and Damon ceramic braces. Do note that the ceramic braces are more expensive than the metal ones.
These braces cause less discomfort, as the wires use a lighter force when shifting teeth. These braces are also easier to clean as they have fewer parts.
Notably, Damon braces are said to require fewer orthodontic visits and adjustments than traditional braces. This is because they do not use elastic ties, and have a self-ligating system.
The downside of these braces are they have a visible metal wire and a risk of possible irritation. The treatment time is also not necessarily shorter than other options.
Cost: The cost for Damon braces ranges from RM7,000 to RM12,000 in Malaysia.
4. Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are braces that are attached to the back surface of the teeth, making them appear invisible from the front.
This means that the parts of the braces, which are the brackets, wires, and elastic bands, can’t be seen unless your mouth is opened wide.
The downside of these braces are: they have a longer treatment period and are more expensive compared to traditional braces.
Lingual braces may also impact your speech. Although most braces will have this initial effect, individuals wearing lingual braces could need a longer time to recover their speech.
Besides, these braces are difficult to clean as food particles can easily get caught behind the wires. You may also experience some soreness and irritation, as these braces make direct contact with the tongue.
Cost: The cost for lingual braces range from RM12,000 to RM25,000 in Malaysia.
5. Invisible Braces
Invisible braces refers to clear algiers such as Invisalign, which are removable plastic trays that gradually straighten teeth without the need for brackets and wires.
The primary reason for choosing invisible braces is aesthetic appeal. They are significantly less noticeable compared to traditional braces, which have wires and brackets.
Invisible braces are also removable. This gives you the freedom of physically removing the tray from your mouth and makes it easier to clean your teeth.
However, these braces are less effective in treating complex dental issues. Although they have a shorter treatment period of 6 to 9 months, they may only be suitable for certain ‘movements’ for teeth. Consult your orthodontist to see if this treatment is right for you.
Besides, invisible braces require adherence and commitment. You must wear it consistently for 20 to 22 hours a day. Failure to do so will result in less effective outcomes and prolonged treatment duration.
Cost: The cost for invisible braces range from RM 12,000 to RM20,000 in Malaysia.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Braces
There are a variety of factors which contribute to the costs of your braces. Be sure to consider these factors while discussing the overall cost with your orthodontist.
Severity of Teeth Condition
The severity of your teeth condition can impact the cost of braces. More severe conditions have higher costs as they may need longer treatment periods, more frequent adjustments, and additional procedures.
Type of Braces
The cost of braces varies based on the type of braces. For example, metal braces are the most cost-effective option as they are made of metal and easy to install. Conversely, braces such as invisible braces are significantly more expensive. This is because they cannot be adjusted and need to be changed regularly.
Type of Practitioner
The qualifications and experience of the practitioner providing the treatment can affect the cost. Orthodontists, who specialise in teeth alignment, may charge higher fees compared to beauty aesthetic practitioners who offer orthodontic services as part of their practice.
Note: Although pricing should be considered, it’s more important to select an experienced and qualified provider to ensure your treatments are safe and suitable.
Location
The prices for braces may vary based on which Malaysian state or city you choose to obtain orthodontic services in. The cost may be higher in city areas such as Kuala Lumpur. Therefore, remember to conduct research beforehand, such as calling up local dental clinics, to obtain a general pricing range in your area.
Insurance Coverage
While some dental policies may cover all related expenses, other policies may not include orthodontic treatment or certain braces types. Be sure to check if your insurance covers braces, and if the treatment or braces type you need fits the specified terms and conditions.
Additional Services
Additional services such as teeth whitening, teeth scaling, retainers or follow-up appointment may not be included in the overall treatment plan, affecting the total cost of braces. Patients should discuss these services with their provider when evaluating the affordability of treatment.
What to Ask About Braces Cost
Here are a few questions to ask your dentist or orthodontist:
- What is the estimated total fee for my braces?
- Are the braces fees fixed, or does it change throughout the course of treatment?
- What is included in the fee?
- What is not included in the fee?
- Are there any installment plans I can choose from?
- Is there a discount if I make full upfront payment?
- What happens if I choose to continue my braces at a different clinic, halfway through treatment?
Schedule a Dental Appointment with Island Hospital
Braces are essential to developing optimal dental health and improving your smile. It’s advisable to choose a reputable and skilled orthodontist to achieve the best results.
At Island Hospital, our dental experts provide quality consultations and treatments. We offer comprehensive dental services supported by cutting-edge medical equipment and technology.
FAQ
Are braces worth it?
Braces are often considered worth it for correcting dental issues and improving oral health. Be sure to consult your orthodontist to see if it’s the best option for you.
How much are braces normally?
The cost of braces varies depending on factors such as type of braces, length of treatment, and location. Braces in Malaysia typically range from RM3,500 to RM25,000.
What is the cheapest amount for braces?
Traditional metal braces are one of the more affordable options, with a starting price of around RM3,500.
Why are braces so expensive?
The cost of braces is influenced by several factors including materials, technology, expertise of the orthodontist, and the complexity of the treatment needed.
How much does metal braces cost in Malaysia?
The cost of metal braces in Malaysia can vary depending on factors such as the orthodontist’s fees, location, and the specific treatment plan.The prices of metal braces in Malaysia generally range from RM3,500 to RM10,000.
