Affordable Braces Hack: Straighten Teeth on A Budget

Straightening your teeth can be affordable. It does not always have to mean spending a large amount of money. Many patients assume that braces treatment is expensive and out of reach, but the reality is that there are several orthodontic options that can fit different budgets.

From traditional metal braces to modern clear aligners and discreet lingual braces, each treatment option comes with different advantages, treatment timelines and costs. The key is understanding how each system works and choosing a solution that aligns with both your dental needs and financial comfort.

In this guide, we break down the different types of braces you can consider if you are trying to straighten your teeth on a specific budget. We will also walk you through common factors that influence the final cost of braces, smart ways to reduce treatment costs, and important mistakes to avoid when searching for affordable orthodontic care.

By understanding how braces pricing works, you will be able to make a more informed decision about your orthodontic treatment while keeping your finances in mind.

Different Types of Braces That You Can Budget For

Depending on the type of braces that you prefer, you will have to prepare yourself for a different budget. The cheapest braces are usually traditional metal braces. 

For most orthodontic clinics, the costs vary depending on your orthodontic complexity (the more complex the case, the more costly it is), the type of orthodontic treatment you choose and whether you require further orthodontic appliances (e.g. RPE/MSE/MARPE/face mask).

Getting Metal Braces on A Budget: Most Affordable 

Traditional metal braces are usually the cheapest and most budget option to straighten teeth. The average cost of metal braces in Singapore is around $3,200 – $3,800 for the entire course of treatment. 

At kohe™ Dental, the cost of metal braces treatment starts from $2,900, and is reliant on what age group you fall under as well as whether you are making a one-time payment or instalment payments. 

Are metal braces suitable for me? 

Metal braces are suitable for you if you: 

• Are looking for no frills orthodontic treatment 
• Want the most affordable braces treatment available 
• Can comply to regular monthly orthodontic adjustments
• Are able to maintain oral hygiene and dental health during braces treatment 
• Are not fussed on making orthodontic treatment discreet 
• Wish to correct simple to complex orthodontic condition
• Are okay with returning to the dental clinic for emergency visits. 

Getting Ceramic (Clear Braces) on a Budget: Most Aesthetic

Ceramic braces are tooth-coloured braces that can blend in with your teeth. The average cost of ceramic braces in Singapore are around $4,000 – $8,000 for the entire course of treatment. 

At kohe™ Dental, the cost of ceramic braces treatment starts from $3,300 and is reliant on what age group you fall under as well as whether you are making a one-time payment or instalment payments. 

Are ceramic braces suitable for me?  

Ceramic braces will be suitable for you if you: 

• Want a more affordable but rather discreet alternative to clear aligners
• Are willing to pay a slight premium for a more aesthetic appearance 
• Can comply to regular monthly orthodontic adjustments
• Are able to maintain oral hygiene and dental health during braces treatment 
• Wish to correct simple to complex orthodontic condition
• Are okay with returning to the dental clinic for emergency visits. 

Getting Self-Ligating Braces on a Budget: Most Efficient 

Self-ligating braces are modern braces (version 2.0) that can shift teeth up to 35% faster than metal braces. Instead of using elastics to hold the braces wire in place, it uses a gated bracket which reduces abrasions on your inner lip and side of your mouth. 

The average cost of self-ligating braces in Singapore are around $4,500 – $9,000 for the entire course of treatment. 

At kohe™ Dental, the cost of self-ligating braces treatment starts from $3,900 and is reliant on what age group you fall under as well as whether you are making a one-time payment or instalment payments. 

Are self-ligating braces suitable for me?  

Self-ligating braces will be suitable for you if you: 

• Want a more efficient and fast way of shifting your teeth but want to stay within budget 
• Are willing to pay a slight premium to avoid extractions as much as possible 
• Are willing to pay a slightly higher cost to reduce treatment duration and dental visits 
• Have a complex dental condition/tooth movement that you wish to treat in a more efficient way
• Can comply to regular orthodontic adjustments
• Are able to maintain oral hygiene and dental health during braces treatment 
• Wish to correct simple to complex orthodontic condition
• Are okay with returning to the dental clinic for emergency visits. 

Getting Hybrid Braces (Ceramic and Metal Braces) on a Budget: Combining Aesthetics and Function 

Hybrid braces are a combination of ceramic and metal braces. Instead of both arches (upper and lower) in ceramic or metal braces, you are opting for an upper arch in ceramic braces and a lower arch in metal braces. Please take note that this is not the same as hybrid clear aligner treatment. 

The average cost of hybrid braces in Singapore are around $4,500 – $6,000 for the entire course of treatment. 

At kohe™ Dental, the cost of hybrid braces treatment starts from $3,500 and is reliant on what age group you fall under as well as whether you are making a one-time payment or instalment payments. 

Are hybrid braces suitable for me?  

Hybrid braces will be suitable for you if you: 

• Want a more aesthetic way of shifting your teeth but want to stay within budget
• Are willing to pay a slight premium for braces treatment to look better 
• Can comply to regular orthodontic adjustments
• Are able to maintain oral hygiene and dental health during braces treatment 
• Wish to correct simple to complex orthodontic condition
• Are okay with returning to the dental clinic for emergency visits. 

Getting Ceramic Self-Ligating Braces (Clear Self-Ligating Braces) on a Budget: Best for Aesthetics and Efficiency

Ceramic self-ligating braces are clear, transparent, tooth-coloured braces. These braces do not require elastic gates and have the same technology as self-ligating braces. 

The average cost of ceramic self-ligating braces in Singapore are around $5,000 – $7,500 for the entire course of treatment. 

At kohe™ Dental, the cost of ceramic self-ligating braces treatment starts from $4,300, and is reliant on what age group you fall under as well as whether you are making a one-time payment or instalment payments. 

Are ceramic self-ligating braces suitable for me?  

Ceramic self-ligating braces will be suitable for you if you: 

• Want a more aesthetic way of shifting your teeth but want to stay within budget
• Do not like clear aligners because of the daily wearing commitment of 20 to 22 hours per day and necessary compliance 
• Are willing to pay a slight premium for braces treatment to look better 
• Are willing to pay a slight premium to avoid extractions as much as possible 
• Are willing to pay a slightly higher cost to reduce treatment duration and dental visits 
• Have a complex dental condition/tooth movement that you wish to treat in a more efficient way
• Can comply to regular orthodontic adjustments
• Are able to maintain oral hygiene and dental health during braces treatment 
• Wish to correct simple to complex orthodontic condition
• Are okay with returning to the dental clinic for emergency visits. 

Getting Lingual Braces (Brava by Brius) on a Budget: Best for Discreet Appearance and Efficiency

Lingual braces (Brava by Brius) are braces that are hidden behind your teeth. These braces work differently and do not require constant reviews and adjustments. They can shift teeth up to 55% faster than metal braces. 

The average cost of lingual braces (Brava by Brius) in Singapore is around $8,500 – $15,000 for the entire course of treatment. 

At kohe™ Dental, the cost of lingual braces treatment starts from $8,200, and is reliant on what age group you fall under as well as whether you are making a one-time payment or instalment payments. 

Are lingual braces suitable for me?  

Lingual braces will be suitable for you if you: 

• Are willing to pay a higher budget for shifting your teeth but want to be discreet about taking up orthodontic treatment
• Work in a high profile position and do not want noticeable orthodontic treatment 
• Do not like clear aligners because of the daily wearing commitment of 20 to 22 hours per day and necessary compliance 
• Have a busy work schedule and are willing to pay a higher cost to reduce treatment duration and dental visits 
• Can comply to regular orthodontic adjustments
• Are able to maintain oral hygiene and dental health during braces treatment 
• Wish to correct simple to complex orthodontic conditions.

Getting Invisible Braces (Clear Aligners) on a Budget: Best for Aesthetics

Invisible braces (clear aligners) are transparent trays that work with attachments on your teeth to create space and movement for your teeth. They are removable and have to be worn at least 20 to 22 hours every day for treatment to succeed. 

The average cost of clear aligners in Singapore is dependent on the number of trays required, which is based on the complexity of orthodontic treatment. It typically costs around $2,500 – $3,000 for mild cases and $6,000 – $10,000 for complex cases. 

At kohe™ Dental, the cost of clear aligner treatment starts from $2,000, and is reliant on what complexity your case is, as well as whether you are making a one-time payment or instalment payments. 

We only offer predictable and tested clear aligner systems at kohe™ Dental.

Invisalign clear aligners

Angel Aligner clear aligners

Smartee clear aligners

Are clear aligners suitable for me?  

• Are looking for a discreet alternative to metal braces but do not wish to take up lingual braces
• Are able to comply 100% with the 20 to 22 hours wearing schedule each day
• Have a busy work schedule and are willing to pay a higher cost to reduce treatment duration and dental visits 
• Can comply to regular orthodontic adjustments of 6 – 8 weeks intervals
• Are able to maintain oral hygiene and dental health during braces treatment 
• Wish to correct simple to complex orthodontic conditions.

What type of braces are the most affordable? 

The cheapest braces are usually traditional metal braces. If you are looking for the cheapest braces near you, 

To help you make a better financial decision based on your individual budget, we have put together a comprehensive table of comparison. 

Please take note that all costs are for one-time payments: 

Common Factors That Affect The Final Cost of Braces 

Orthodontic complexity
The more complex your orthodontic condition is, the more planning, aligners or adjustments are required to move your teeth safely and predictably.

Whether you want to improve teeth alignment or a combination of palatal expansion, jaw asymmetry
Treatments that involve correcting jaw position, expanding the dental arch or improving facial symmetry usually require additional appliances and a longer treatment duration.

Your current oral health condition
If there are existing issues such as tooth decay, gum disease or poor oral hygiene, these conditions must be treated first before orthodontic treatment can begin.

Expertise of the dentist or orthodontist
Dentists who have extensive orthodontic experience or specialised training often charge more because of the expertise required to manage complex tooth movements.

Clinical caseload
Clinicians who treat a large number of orthodontic patients tend to develop more refined treatment systems and protocols for managing different orthodontic cases.

Fee-per-procedure pricing or exclusive itemised pricing
Some clinics provide a single comprehensive package, while others itemise each procedure separately, which may affect how the total cost is presented.

Whether they have postgraduate qualifications
Dentists with postgraduate training in orthodontics or related disciplines may charge higher fees due to their additional education and specialised knowledge.

Whether you require additional appliances
Certain orthodontic conditions may require auxiliary appliances such as expanders, elastics, temporary anchorage devices (TADs) or bite correction tools.

Whether you require further dental treatments before your orthodontic treatment
Procedures such as tooth extractions, gum treatment or dental restorations may be necessary before braces can be safely started.

Smart Ways to Reduce Cost of Braces

Ask about student packages (if you are a student)
Some dental clinics like kohe™ Dental offer reduced pricing for students to make orthodontic treatment more accessible during school years.

Wait for one-off promos that usually happen around school holidays and festivities
Dental clinics occasionally run promotional pricing during festive periods or school holidays when more patients have time to start treatment.

Choose interest-free payment plans
Interest-free instalment plans with credit cards will allow you to spread out the cost of treatment over time without paying additional financing charges.

Check insurance coverage to see whether it covers orthodontic treatment
Some dental insurance plans may provide partial reimbursement for orthodontic treatment, depending on the policy terms.

Start braces treatment earlier
Beginning orthodontic treatment earlier can sometimes prevent more complex dental problems from developing later, which may reduce overall treatment costs.

Get a sibling to join you for braces treatment
Some clinics like kohe™ Dental may offer family or sibling discounts when multiple family members begin orthodontic treatment at the same time.

See whether your child/their sibling qualifies for Baby Bonus CDA
Parents may be able to use funds from the Child Development Account (CDA) under the Baby Bonus scheme to offset part of their child’s orthodontic treatment.

Things you should not do to reduce cost of braces 

Here are some things you should definitely not do in an attempt to lower the cost of braces treatment: 

1. Start price wars by telling a dental clinic about how another dental clinic is cheaper 

Every dental clinic has their own set of prices that they adhere to. Each dental clinic brings their own expertise or rationale why they charge a certain way to the table. It would not be respectful to ask another dental clinic to price match a non-related dental clinic. 

2. Tell a dental clinic that another country is cheaper and insist on price matching cost to said country 

Similar to point 1, every dental clinic in different countries has their own set of prices. For example, it is not possible for a clinic in Singapore to price match a clinic in the Philippines. 

Asking a dental clinic to price match a dental clinic from a neighbouring country is like asking a franchise fast food restaurant to price match to a local hawker stall. 

3. Tell a dental clinic how to “use Medisave and CHAS” to get braces treatment 

It is illegal to use Medisave and CHAS to claim for braces treatment. If caught doing so, a dental clinic can lose their MOH clinic license. The dental clinic will also lose their Medisave and CHAS accreditation, while the dental clinician will lose their own dental license. 

4. Go to a non-licensed, non-dentist to get orthodontic treatment 

Orthodontic treatment should always be carried out by a licensed dentist who understands tooth movement, bite relationships and oral health. Teeth do not simply move in straight lines. Poorly planned orthodontic treatment can lead to gum recession, root damage, bite problems or long-term instability.

Going to a non-licensed provider may seem cheaper at first, but correcting poorly executed orthodontic treatment can be far more expensive and complicated later on.

5. Do it yourself braces off Shopee or Taobao 

DIY braces kits sold online are extremely dangerous because they move teeth without proper diagnosis, X-rays or treatment planning. In some cases, patients develop recessed gums, exposed roots or lose their teeth. 

Orthodontic movement requires careful monitoring to ensure that teeth move safely within the bone.

Without professional supervision, DIY braces can cause irreversible damage to your teeth, gums and jaw alignment.

6. Try to use an expired student card or tell tall tales about your student status 

Student pricing is usually offered to make orthodontic treatment more accessible for genuine students. Attempting to misuse student privileges by presenting expired documentation or providing inaccurate information is unfair to both the clinic and other patients.

Dental clinics rely on trust and transparency when offering subsidised rates for specific patient groups.

7. Try to plan your own instalment plans 

Dental clinics structure instalment plans carefully to ensure fairness to both patients and the clinic providing treatment. Orthodontic treatment involves upfront laboratory fees, clinical planning and ongoing chair time throughout your treatment journey.

Because of these financial commitments, instalment plans are usually standardised and cannot be customised individually.

8. Try to plan your own braces treatment plans by recommending single arch treatment when you are unsuitable for it

Orthodontic treatment planning requires careful consideration of how the upper and lower teeth work together. Treating only one arch when both arches require correction can lead to bite imbalance and long-term functional problems.

Dentists recommend treatment plans based on clinical findings, not convenience or cost considerations alone.

9. Haggle and bargain for prices at a dental clinic 

Unlike purchasing retail goods, dental treatment pricing reflects professional expertise, clinical responsibility and treatment outcomes. Dentists are responsible for ensuring safe and predictable results over many months of treatment.

Negotiating aggressively for lower prices may not always lead to the best treatment environment or long-term care.

10. Ask a dental clinic to waive off 9% GST unless they have promos for these 

GST is a government-mandated tax applied across many goods and services in Singapore, including dental treatment. Dental clinics are required by law to collect and remit this tax to the government.

Clinics generally cannot remove GST unless it is part of a clearly stated promotional campaign where the clinic absorbs the tax on behalf of the patient.

11. Promise to make payment then proceed to ghost dental clinic when it is time for payments 

Orthodontic treatment is a long-term commitment that requires planning, laboratory work and clinical resources from the dental clinic. When treatment begins, the clinic has already committed significant time and costs toward your case.

Patients are expected to honour payment arrangements so that the treatment process can continue smoothly and responsibly.

How do I compare braces costs effectively? 

Look at the cost quote comprehensively 

When comparing braces costs between dental clinics, it is important to review the entire treatment quotation rather than focusing only on the starting price. A braces package may include different components such as consultations, diagnostic records, adjustment visits, emergency visits, retainers and post-treatment reviews.

Some clinics present a lower starting price but itemise many additional services separately. Others like kohe™ Dental provide a more inclusive treatment package that covers most aspects of orthodontic care. 

Looking at the quotation comprehensively allows you to understand the real total cost of treatment rather than being influenced by a single advertised figure.

Watch out for any hidden costs 

Not all orthodontic treatment packages include the same services. In some cases, costs such as diagnostic X-rays, 3D scans, retainers, emergency visits, debonding of braces or post-treatment retainers may be charged separately.

It is useful to ask the clinic clearly what is included and what is not included in the braces package. This helps you avoid unexpected charges during the course of treatment and allows you to budget more accurately for the entire orthodontic journey.

Look out for quality vs just budget braces 

While affordability is important, choosing braces treatment based solely on the lowest price may not always lead to the best outcome. 

Orthodontic treatment involves careful planning, understanding tooth movement biomechanics and managing bite relationships over an extended period of time.

An experienced orthodontic provider may charge slightly higher fees because of their training, treatment systems and ability to manage both simple and complex cases. 

In some cases, experienced orthodontic providers like kohe™ Dental may provide reduced fees for orthodontic treatment because of the mission of our company. 

When comparing braces costs, it is worth considering the experience of the provider, the orthodontic caseload of the clinic, and the overall treatment approach. A well-planned orthodontic treatment can help ensure stable results, healthier teeth and a better long-term bite.

How do I reduce the cost of braces if I am not a student? 

Pay for a treatment package instead of paying in instalments 

If you have the financial flexibility, paying for your braces treatment as a one-time package can sometimes reduce the overall cost. Many dental clinics offer slightly lower prices for upfront payments because it reduces administrative work and payment processing over the duration of treatment.

In contrast, instalment plans may sometimes include administrative fees or GST that are applied differently compared to one-time payments. While instalment plans are helpful for spreading out the financial burden, paying upfront can occasionally lead to a more favourable overall treatment cost.

Go for orthodontic focused clinics that have value-for-money packages  

Orthodontic-focused clinics that manage a high volume of braces patients often develop structured treatment systems that allow them to offer more predictable and accessible pricing. 

Because these clinics see many orthodontic cases across different complexity levels, they are able to streamline treatment protocols, clinical workflows and laboratory processes.

This operational efficiency sometimes allows orthodontic-focused clinics to offer more competitive treatment packages without compromising on clinical standards. 

Choosing a clinic that regularly manages braces cases can therefore provide a balance between affordability, treatment experience and reliable outcomes.

Can I reduce the cost of my braces treatment by doing only one arch? 

The quick answer to this is no, not unless you are really suitable for single arch treatment. 

Single arch treatment and/or sectional braces treatment are only relevant for certain cases. It is usually done for refinements after the bulk of your braces treatment is completed. 

Single arch braces treatment is not suitable for everyone. In fact, out of the 300+ braces cases that we see each year, only 1 person qualified for single arch braces treatment (updated in 2026). 

Should you wish to reduce the cost of your braces treatment, it is best to choose a reputable orthodontic clinic that has inclusive packages. 

Should I cross the border or head to Batam, Indonesia, or Thailand to get braces? It seems cheaper there. 

If you wish to consider crossing the border or travel to Batam, Indonesia or Thailand to get braces, here are some immediate considerations that you should think about before doing so: 

Affordable Braces for Children 

If you are looking for an orthodontic clinic for your child, kohe™ Dental offers affordable braces for children from $2,900 (inclusive of 9% GST). If you have two or more children who intend to do treatment at the same time, there is a sibling subsidy of $100 per sibling. 

Affordable Braces for Students and NSFs 

kohe™ Dental has one of the most preferential rates for braces for students and NSFs in Singapore. For teenagers (11 – 16 years old), it will be $3,100 (inclusive of 9% GST) and for university students and NSFs (17 – 21 years old), it will be $3,300 (inclusive of 9% GST).  

Can I use Baby Bonus CDA to pay for braces? 

Yes, if you have a child that is below the age of 12 years old and still has Baby Bonus, you might be able to use their Baby Bonus for their braces treatment. 

It is also possible to use their Baby Bonus for their siblings braces treatment. 

Please take note that should you wish to use Baby Bonus for braces treatment payment, it is necessary to bring a birth certificate (or a digital photocopy), along with your Baby Bonus NETS card during the visit. 

Where to find the cheapest braces in Singapore for students and NSFs? 

As of March 2026, kohe™ Dental is one of the cheapest and most affordable braces providers in Singapore for students and NSFs. 

We pride ourselves on building one of the most beautiful dental clinics in Singapore while offering accessible orthodontic care for patients locally and internationally. 

Affordable Braces for Adults 

If you have not had the luxury of doing braces treatment as a child, there are still ways to get affordable braces as an adult. 

People-focused and pricing accessible clinics like kohe™ Dental offer adult braces at $3,500 (inclusive of 9% GST) regardless of orthodontic complexity. 

Can I use Medisave or CHAS to pay for braces? 

Unfortunately, it will not be possible to use Medisave or CHAS to pay for your braces or any form of orthodontic treatment. 

Medisave can only be used for surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth surgery, tooth surgery, buried tooth surgery, or dental implant surgery. CHAS can only be used for general and restorative dentistry procedures such as scaling and polishing/Guided Biofilm Therapy, dental fillings/biomimetic dental fillings or simple tooth extractions. 

Should you require any pre-treatments before braces treatment, and you have a valid CHAS and/or Medisave account, you may inform the clinic about your wish to use your CHAS or Medisave account for further subsidies. 

Can I use dental insurance to pay for braces? 

It may sometimes be possible to use dental insurance to pay for braces treatment. Many of our expat patients do claim for braces treatment from their insurers or corporate benefits. 

However, do take note that the majority of local insurances do not allow for claims for braces. You may use your dental insurance to claim for general or restorative procedures like dental crowns, dental bridges, onlays and inlays or in some cases, dental implants. 

It is also highly possible to use your dental insurance to pay for pre-orthodontic treatment procedures like scaling and polishing/Guided Biofilm Therapy, dental fillings and tooth extractions/surgeries. 

Where to find the cheapest braces in Singapore for adults?

As of March 2026, kohe™ Dental is one of the cheapest and most affordable braces providers in Singapore for adults. 

We pride ourselves on building one of the most beautiful dental clinics in Singapore while offering accessible orthodontic care for patients locally and internationally. 

Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Choosing Cheap Braces 

While budget might be at the top of your concern, it is probably wise to ask yourself the following questions before simply choosing the cheapest braces provider: 

At kohe™ Dental, we only work with highly experienced braces dentists who not just have post-graduate qualifications in orthodontics but a wealth of experience working with different orthodontic conditions. 

Does kohe™ Dental offer the cheapest braces in Singapore for children, students, NSFs and adults?

Yes, we do offer the cheapest and most affordable braces packages in Singapore for children, students, NSFs and adults (updated in March 2026). They are especially preferential for children who start orthodontic treatment early. 

Our braces packages are a flat rate and do not differentiate between simple and complex conditions. This is one of the reasons why we see a majority of patients with complex orthodontic conditions. 

Our simplified fee structures are in an effort to create further accessibility to higher quality orthodontic treatment. The braces costs in Singapore can sometimes cause decision procrastination. 

Starting orthodontic care early can help reduce potential oral health and dental issues in the long term.  

How do I pay for braces treatment at kohe™ Dental? 

It is possible to pay for braces treatment at kohe™ Dental with a one-time reduced rate payment or via our in-house instalment payments. 

Straighten teeth without financial regret.

Affordable braces treatment is not just about finding the cheapest option available. It is about finding a treatment approach that balances cost, effectiveness and long-term dental health.

There are many ways to keep orthodontic treatment within budget. Choosing the right type of braces, starting treatment earlier, taking advantage of student packages or instalment plans, and selecting an experienced orthodontic clinic with transparent pricing can all help reduce overall costs.

At the same time, it is important to avoid shortcuts that may compromise your dental health. Orthodontic treatment requires careful diagnosis, treatment planning and professional monitoring. Choosing qualified dental providers and well-structured treatment plans will ensure that your teeth move safely and predictably.

The goal of braces treatment is not only to improve how your teeth look, but also to create a healthier bite and long-term oral stability. With the right planning and guidance, straightening your teeth can be both financially manageable and clinically successful.

Dr Amanda Koh Founder and Managing Director

Dr Amanda Koh is the Founder and Managing Director of kohe™ Dental. She is also known as The Invisalign Dentist.She has a special interest in helping patients achieve their ideal smile outcomes with clear aligners like Invisalign and Angel Aligner and braces.

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