How much will braces cost with insurance?

If you’ve recently moved to Spain—or you’re planning to— healthcare is usually at the forefront of your mind. When it comes to navigating the healthcare system, registering with doctors, and trying to understand what is (and isn’t) covered by private insurance, there is a big learning curve. Dental care is often an overlooked part of the picture and an area where expats have questions, especially when orthodontic treatment is a factor.

Braces are no longer seen as a purely cosmetic treatment. For both children and adults, orthodontics can play a crucial role in long-term oral health, bite alignment, speech, and even digestion. Still, one of the most common questions remains: how much will braces cost with insurance?

In this article, we’ll look at the average cost of braces in Spain, the most common types of orthodontic treatments available in Spain, and why starting orthodontic treatment with Caser Expat Insurance can make both financial and practical sense for expats or their dependents.

The cost of braces in Spain: what to expect without insurance

Spain has long offered high-quality dental care at prices that are often lower than in countries like the United States or the UK. Still, orthodontic treatment is still a significant investment, especially without insurance.

Without any dental coverage, the cost of braces in Spain generally falls within these ranges:

• Metal braces: €2,000–€3,500
• Ceramic or aesthetic braces: €3,000–€4,500
• Lingual braces (placed behind the teeth): €4,000–€7,000
• Clear aligners (such as Invisalign-style treatments): €3,000–€6,000
  

These prices typically include the braces themselves and routine adjustments, but they may not always cover initial diagnostic tests, retainers after treatment, or unexpected follow-up visits. For families with children—or adults who delayed orthodontics earlier in life—these costs can add up quickly.

Some autonomous communities will provide public dental insurance to the children of residents and citizens, but coverage is often limited to age and a teeth cleaning, rather than orthodontic procedures.

This is where private dental insurance in Spain becomes especially relevant.

How much will braces cost with insurance?

So, how much will braces cost with insurance? The short answer is: significantly less, and with fewer surprises.

With a dental policy from Caser Expat Insurance, orthodontic treatment becomes more accessible and predictable. Depending on the plan and the type of treatment chosen, insurance can reduce costs in several important ways:

• Partial or significant coverage of chosen orthodontic treatment.
• Reduced rates through Caser’s network of dental clinics throughout Spain.
• Follow-up visits and monitoring included in price.
• Clear treatment plans.
  

Rather than paying the full cost out of pocket, insured patients benefit from locked-in prices and structured treatment plans that include both the orthodontic appliance and ongoing supervision. And added benefit for expats is managing treatment in their native language with support from Caser’s award-winning team of customer care specialists.

The most common types of orthodontic treatment in Spain

Orthodontics has evolved considerably in recent years – long gone is the stigma of “metal mouths” as more and more adults seek to improve their smile. Today, patients can choose from several effective and discreet options, depending on their needs, lifestyle, and budget. Below are the most common types of orthodontic treatments you’ll encounter in Spain.

Traditional metal braces

Metal braces remain one of the most widely used orthodontic solutions, particularly for children and teenagers. They are durable, effective, and often the most affordable option.

Modern metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than they once were, and treatment times are often short. With insurance through Caser, metal braces are typically the most cost-efficient choice, making them ideal for families managing multiple dental needs.

Ceramic or aesthetic braces

Ceramic braces work in the same way as metal braces but are designed to blend in with the natural colour of the teeth. This makes them a popular choice among adults and older teens who want a less noticeable option.

While ceramic braces are more expensive than metal braces, insurance coverage can substantially reduce the difference in price, making them a realistic option rather than a luxury.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth, making them virtually invisible from the outside. They are custom-made and require specialized orthodontic expertise – and hence their higher cost.

Not all insurance plans cover lingual braces fully, but Caser’s dental coverage can still help reduce consultation, monitoring, and follow-up expenses—costs that are often overlooked when comparing clinics.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners have become one of the most requested orthodontic treatments in Spain, especially among expats and professionals. These removable, transparent trays gradually move the teeth into place and are easy to integrate into daily life.

Clear aligners tend to sit in the mid-to-high price range, but with insurance, patients often benefit from reduced treatment costs and structured follow-up. This is particularly helpful for expats who value flexibility and predictable scheduling.

Why orthodontic follow-up matters as much as treatment

One common misconception about braces is that the cost only relates to the appliance itself. In reality, ongoing follow-up is a critical part of successful orthodontic treatment.

Regular check-ups allow orthodontists to:

• Adjust tension and alignment
• Monitor tooth movement and jaw development
• Prevent complications such as root damage or gum issues
• Ensure treatment stays on schedule

Caser Expat Insurance places strong emphasis not just on the orthodontic device, but on the entire treatment journey, including monitoring and follow-up. This holistic approach helps prevent costly complications later and ensures better long-term results.

When choosing a dental coverage plan with Caser Expat Insurance, you have the freedom to choose what best suits your plans, your smile – and anyone who may need orthodontic treatments in the house. Plans begin at just 8,70€ a month, and you can count on Caser’s excellent team of professionals – both in the dentist chair as well as over the phone for emergency, 24/7 help.

Smile Essential is a great start to taking care of your smile. From kids’ dental inclusions to 50% off major dental surgeries and care, you’ll significantly reduce surprises when it comes to bills. Family packs are affordable at 21,70€ a month.

If you’re looking for a step up in coverage, consider Smile Perfect. You get the benefits of the Smile Essential plus round-the-clock care, better negotiated pricing and higher reimbursements. The individual plan is 11,50€ a month; families are 27,15€.

Visit your local Caser broker or calculate your price online in minutes!

The benefits of starting orthodontic treatment with Caser Expat Insurance

For expats, navigating dental care abroad can feel overwhelming. Language barriers, unfamiliar pricing structures, and uncertainty about standards of care all add extra layers of stress. Caser Expat Insurance is designed to address these concerns directly – and often in your native language.

• Access to a trusted dental network: Caser works with a wide network of accredited dental clinics across Spain. This means you’re not starting from scratch trying to evaluate providers. Clinics in the network meet established quality standards and are familiar with treating international patients.
• Clear costs and fewer surprises: One of the biggest advantages of insurance is transparency. Before starting orthodontic treatment, patients receive a clear breakdown of what is covered, what is discounted, and what—if anything—remains out of pocket. This clarity answers the question “how much will braces cost with insurance?” before treatment begins, not halfway through it.
• Comprehensive care for children and adults: Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teenagers. Many adults choose to start braces later in life, and Caser’s dental coverage supports orthodontics for different age groups, making it easier for families and individuals alike.
• Peace of mind: Living abroad comes with enough administrative challenges. Knowing that your orthodontic treatment, follow-up visits, and dental care are managed under a reliable insurance plan allows you to focus on settling into life in Spain.

Is orthodontic insurance worth it in Spain?

For expats considering braces—either for themselves or their children—the answer is often yes. While Spain offers competitive dental pricing compared to other countries, orthodontics remains a long-term commitment involving regular visits and ongoing care that may be subject to inflation or a rise in the cost of materials down the road.

Insurance through Caser doesn’t just lower the cost; it simplifies the entire process. From diagnosis to final retainers, having coverage ensures continuity, professional oversight, and financial predictability.

Final thoughts: planning your orthodontic treatment in Spain

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in long-term health and confidence. Understanding your options and planning ahead makes a significant difference—especially when living abroad.

If you’re asking yourself how much will braces cost with insurance, the key takeaway is this: with Caser Expat Insurance, braces in Spain become more affordable, more transparent, and better supported from start to finish. By combining treatment and follow-up under one trusted insurance provider, expats can access high-quality orthodontic care without unnecessary stress or unexpected expenses.

Whether you’re considering braces for a child, a teenager, or yourself, exploring orthodontic coverage with Caser is a practical first step toward a healthier smile.