In South Africa, braces cost roughly R20,000 to R50,000 for the full treatment, depending on the type you choose. Metal braces sit at the cheaper end. Clear aligners and lingual braces cost the most. The price also shifts with how crooked your teeth are, how long treatment runs, and where the orthodontist practices.
Braces prices in South Africa
| Type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Metal braces | R20,000 – R45,000 |
| Ceramic (tooth-coloured) braces | R20,000 – R35,000 |
| Clear aligners (Invisalign-style) | R25,000 – R70,000 |
| Lingual (behind-the-teeth) braces | R30,000 – R50,000 |
These are full-treatment figures, not monthly ones. Some clinics quote lower starting prices for simple cases, so treat the table as a range rather than a fixed quote.
What changes the price
- Type of braces. Metal is cheapest because the parts cost less and the technique is standard. Ceramic and aligners trade on being less visible, so they charge more.
- How bad the case is. Mild crowding costs less than a full overbite or a crossbite, which means more adjustments and more chair time.
- Treatment length. Most people wear braces for 12 to 36 months. Longer treatment means more appointments, which pushes the total up.
- Location. Practices in Joburg, Cape Town and Pretoria tend to charge more than smaller towns.
Don't forget the retainer
After the braces come off you need a retainer to stop the teeth drifting back. Budget an extra R2,000 to R5,000 for this, and check whether it is included in the initial quote.
Does medical aid cover braces?
Many South African medical schemes cover part of orthodontic treatment, usually for dependants under 21. Cover varies a lot between schemes, so call yours and ask specifically about orthodontics before you commit. Most orthodontists also offer payment plans, which spreads the cost over the treatment period.
Browse dentists and orthodontists near you to compare quotes and check what your medical aid covers.