Choosing to straighten your teeth is both a health decision and a financial one. In Calgary, families often weigh orthodontic treatment against mortgage payments, hockey fees, and the cost of groceries that never seem to stop climbing. As someone who has sat across from parents, young professionals, and retirees in orthodontic consults, I’ve seen how much peace it brings when the numbers are concrete, the plan is flexible, and the path to a confident bite feels achievable.
This guide lays out what braces and Invisalign cost in Calgary, how to budget without derailing your life, where to find savings without compromising care, and how to navigate insurance and tax credits. Costs vary, but with clarity and a few smart moves, the choice becomes less daunting.
What treatment actually costs in Calgary
Most Calgarians start by asking, “What’s the real price?” For a typical case, fixed dental braces often range from about $4,500 to $8,500, depending on case complexity, time in treatment, and the Calgary orthodontist you choose. Invisalign tends to fall in a similar band, roughly $4,800 to $9,500, with aligner quantity driving the number. Mild cosmetic fixes sit on the lower end, while complex bite corrections, impacted teeth, or jaw discrepancies push upward.
I’ve seen outliers in both directions. A short, focused Invisalign touch-up after previous orthodontics might land around $2,500 to $3,500, whereas comprehensive care with surgery or extractions can exceed $10,000. Metal brackets usually cost less than ceramic. On the Invisalign side, “Lite” or “Express” packages are cheaper if your case qualifies.
The sticker number includes a lot more https://familybraces.ca/invisalign/ than braces or aligners. You’re paying for diagnosis, treatment planning, monthly adjustments or aligner checks, the orthodontist’s expertise, and retainer design and delivery. Retainers are essential, and in Calgary they often add $300 to $800 per set if not bundled. Some offices include one or two sets in the total fee, others bill them separately. Always ask what the global fee covers.
Where the money goes: understanding the line items
A thorough consult should lay out the moving pieces. While clinics present a single comprehensive fee, it helps to understand how value stacks up.
- Records and planning: digital scans, photographs, and X‑rays like panoramic and cephalometric images. Expect $250 to $500 when charged separately. Clinical time: adjustments every six to eight weeks for braces, or remote monitoring with periodic in-person checks for Invisalign. Fewer visits doesn’t always mean lower cost. Complex tooth movements still demand orthodontist oversight. Appliances and lab costs: brackets, wires, elastics, aligners, attachments, retainers. Invisalign involves lab fees linked to the number of aligners and refinements. Retention: post-treatment stabilization with clear retainers or bonded retainers behind the teeth. A bonded retainer can save you from shifting but needs occasional maintenance. Contingencies: unplanned repairs, lost aligners, or extended treatment for slow-moving teeth. Some clinics build a cushion into the fee, others charge small incidentals as they arise.
That clarity matters when you’re comparing quotes. A lower fee that excludes retainers or refinements might cost more later if the case runs long or if you need additional aligners.
Braces or Invisalign: the cost conversation beyond the brochure
I’ve worked with both modalities and the cost difference is rarely dramatic. Instead, ask which approach fits your lifestyle and case complexity. Fixed braces are always working, which can be efficient for rotations and vertical movements. Invisalign excels with patient compliance and can be more comfortable, with fewer emergencies and fewer food restrictions. People with active travel schedules often like aligners because they can stretch the interval between checks, and some Calgary invisalign patients use virtual scans to keep things on track.
What tends to move costs:
- Treatment time. Twelve months typically costs less than 24. Complex malocclusions need more hands-on planning. Appliance preference. Ceramic braces bump the fee due to higher material costs. Tiered Invisalign products correlate to aligner counts. Compliance. Missed appointments, broken brackets, or aligners not worn the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day can prolong treatment, which eats into the contingency margin. Experience and technology. A Calgary orthodontist who routinely handles complex Invisalign cases may charge more but achieve predictable results in fewer refinements. Sometimes paying for experience saves money in the long run.
Typical payment structures in Calgary clinics
Most orthodontic offices in Calgary use a similar financing rhythm. There’s usually a down payment, then monthly installments over the treatment duration, often interest free. Down payments range widely, but 10 to 30 percent is common. If a treatment fee is $6,800 with an 18‑month plan, you might see $1,500 down and about $295 per month. Families appreciate that the installment plan feels like another household bill, no credit application required. If you need a lower monthly number, extending payments a few months beyond the active treatment can help, though not every clinic offers it.
Some clinics partner with third‑party financing companies if you want a longer term or need to start with a small down payment. Those plans can carry interest. Always compare your bank’s line of credit rate to a third‑party lender’s rate. A modest line of credit at prime plus a small margin can beat a double‑digit financing offer. Run the math, including any setup fees.
Discounts exist, though they’re measured. Offices may offer a small savings for payment in full at the start, often 3 to 7 percent. Sibling or family discounts also show up, especially if you start two children within a similar time frame. Ask, but don’t expect aggressive price cuts. Quality orthodontic practices know their costs and cannot discount their way to excellence.
Insurance in Alberta: how it interacts with orthodontics
Dental insurance in Alberta often includes orthodontic coverage as a lifetime maximum per person, separate from regular dental benefits. It might look like 50 percent up to $2,000, or 60 percent up to $3,000. The “lifetime” wording trips people up. If you used part of that as a teenager, your remaining balance may be much smaller as an adult.
Orthodontic insurance typically pays out over time rather than in a lump sum. The insurer releases payments in step with treatment progress. If a plan says 50 percent up to $2,500, and the fee is $7,000, your potential benefit maxes at $2,500, paid monthly or quarterly. That cadence matters when you budget monthly payments. If your clinic offers direct billing, your monthly out-of-pocket can be lower since the insurer pays the office and your installment reflects only the patient portion.
Two other points help:
- Waiting periods and eligibility: some employer plans require a waiting period or exclude adult orthodontics. Confirm before starting. The pre‑determination from the insurer clarifies what will be covered. Dual coverage: if both parents have plans, the benefits can coordinate. You won’t exceed the treatment fee, but you might increase the total covered amount. Coordination rules can be finicky, so have the office submit documentation to both insurers and confirm the coordination method.
Taxes and credits: quiet helpers on your side
Orthodontic treatment qualifies as a medical expense for Canadian tax purposes. If your out‑of‑pocket expenses exceed the threshold, you can claim them under the Medical Expense Tax Credit. Keep every receipt. If you use a Health Spending Account (HSA) through your employer, orthodontic payments often fit, though some HSAs require upfront payment followed by reimbursement. Spreading payments through the year might help you remain within monthly HSA limits.
For parents alternating custody or sharing costs, agree early on who claims the medical expense credit. Make sure receipts list the payer that plans to claim.
How to build a realistic budget without sacrificing treatment quality
People usually overestimate what they need to save before starting. You rarely need the entire fee upfront. You need the down payment and a monthly amount that fits your cash flow. One Calgary family I worked with had two children in treatment. They penciled out a plan that aligned each child’s start date with an annual raise and a childcare expense that was dropping off. The net effect was a stable monthly budget.
If you prefer concrete steps, use this five‑point checklist to structure your plan:
- Verify insurance orthodontic coverage in writing. Confirm lifetime maximum, percentage, waiting periods, and payout schedule. Get two consultations and two written quotes, apples to apples. Ensure both include records, emergency visits, refinements for Invisalign, and retainers. Ask each clinic for an interest‑free installment plan with a down payment you can manage. Compare the total paid over time, not just the monthly number. Decide whether a Health Spending Account or line of credit lowers your net cost. Run the after‑tax numbers. Build a small buffer for surprises: broken brackets, lost aligners, a retainer replacement. One or two hundred dollars set aside can keep you from derailing the plan.
The hidden costs that catch people off guard
Emergencies happen. Brackets pop off during sticky candy season. A teen leaves an aligner folded in a napkin at a food court in Chinook Centre. Many clinics include minor repairs at no charge. Others bill small fees for broken brackets or a lost tray. If you’re prone to mishaps or have a child in competitive sports, a little prudence helps. For braces, a simple bite wafer and wax can avoid extra visits. For Invisalign, a dedicated case in every backpack and glove box reduces the “lost at the rink” casualty rate.
Retainers deserve their own paragraph. Teeth are not static. They are living structures influenced by bone and muscle forces. After treatment, they want to drift. A bonded retainer behind the lower front teeth can be a great insurance policy, but it can debond and collect plaque if neglected. Clear removable retainers need replacing periodically. Budget for one extra set every year or two, typically $150 to $300 each, depending on the clinic.
Saving without shortchanging outcomes
It’s tempting to shop for the lowest sticker price. I’d encourage a balanced approach. You want fair fees, and you also want a team that manages bite function, airway considerations, and esthetics with maturity. Calgary has excellent orthodontists across the city. Meet at least two. Ask to see similar cases. A modestly higher fee from a Calgary orthodontist who has deep Invisalign experience might mean fewer refinements, fewer visits, and a cleaner finish.
There are also practical ways to reduce cost:
- Start earlier if you can. Simple interceptive treatment at age 8 to 10 can prevent a more complex and expensive fix at 14 to 16. Early expansion for crossbites or guidance of canine eruption can be cost‑effective, though not every child needs phase one. Consider metal braces if ceramic pushes the fee beyond comfort and you don’t need a discreet look for professional reasons. Be an all‑star with compliance. Wear elastics exactly as prescribed. For Invisalign, aim for 20 to 22 hours of wear, change trays on schedule, and use chewies to seat them fully. Fewer refinements and a shorter timeline save money and frustration. Time your start with insurance renewals. If your plan resets benefits January 1 and pays over time, starting in the late fall or early new year can maximize reimbursements within two calendar cycles.
Special cases: adults, teens, and surgical needs
Adult orthodontics in Calgary is on the rise. Adults often bring gum recession, previous dental work, and a constrained time budget. Invisalign is popular for these cases because appointments are shorter and less frequent. That said, adults sometimes need more periodontal support and careful force application, which can lengthen treatment slightly. Costs are similar to teen treatment, but retainers matter even more for adults because of lower bone turnover with age.
Teen cases vary. A compliant teen can crush Invisalign. A forgetful one might thrive with braces that never come off. Budgeting for teens often involves family logistics: two kids, alternating start dates, and sports seasons. You can ask the clinic to align payments with school terms or to pause aligner deliveries during summer camps to simplify compliance without derailing progress.
Surgical orthodontics, used for significant skeletal discrepancies, requires coordination with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The orthodontic portion may sit in the $8,000 to $12,000 range, and the surgery has its own fee structure. Some private or employer health plans offer partial coverage for orthognathic surgery under medical benefits rather than dental. Expect a longer timeline and more appointments. The bite results can be life changing, with functional and airway improvements that justify the complexity.
Choosing a Calgary orthodontist with financial clarity in mind
When you meet a clinic, pay attention to how they explain the plan, not only the price. Transparency is a good proxy for overall care. Ask how many similar Invisalign or braces cases they treat per year, their average treatment time for your case type, and the expected number of visits. If an office offers Calgary invisalign services with remote monitoring, ask how often they verify fit and how refinements are handled.
Good signs include a printed or emailed treatment proposal with:
- A complete fee that lists what is included, including refinements and retainers. A down payment and a clear installment schedule, with due dates that match your pay cycle. An outline of insurance coordination and whether the clinic can direct bill. A statement of any add‑on fees, such as lost aligners or additional retainers, so there are no surprises.
A sample Calgary budget for braces and Invisalign
Numbers make this real. Here are two composite examples based on typical Calgary ranges. Your quotes will differ, but the structure holds.
Example A: Comprehensive metal braces over 20 months
- Fee: $6,600 Down payment: $1,200 Installments: $270 per month for 20 months Insurance: 50 percent up to $2,000 lifetime, paid over 20 months, about $100 per month Out‑of‑pocket monthly: $170 after insurance, plus the down payment upfront Retainers: included, with one set of clear retainers at debond
Example B: Invisalign for a moderate crowding case over 16 months
- Fee: $7,200, including up to two refinements Down payment: $1,500 Installments: $360 per month for 16 months Insurance: $2,500 lifetime maximum, paid at $156 per month until maxed Out‑of‑pocket monthly: roughly $204 for the first 16 months, then $0 for the remaining insurance payouts if any were pending, plus down payment upfront Retainers: included, bonded lower retainer additional $250 if elected
These examples show why the insurance payout cadence matters. Your monthly cost depends on how benefits flow, not just the total covered amount.
Common mistakes that cost extra
A few patterns repeatedly create avoidable costs. The first is choosing a clinic on price alone, then needing extra refinements and appointments that stretch your time and patience. The second is non‑compliance, especially with aligner wear and elastic use. The third is neglecting retention. I once saw a patient who tossed out retainers after a year because everything “seemed stable.” Two years later, the mild relapse required a new round of aligners. The fix was shorter and cheaper than the first course, but still an expense that disciplined retention would have avoided.
Another misstep is misunderstanding insurance. People sometimes assume the insurer will pay 50 percent of every invoice. The reality is the plan pays 50 percent to a lifetime maximum, and payments stop once that maximum is reached. Get the pre‑determination in writing and track the remaining balance.
How Calgary clinics adapt for tighter budgets
If you’re stretching, talk openly to the treatment coordinator. Many offices can:
- Lower the down payment and slightly extend installments. Align payment dates with your payroll cycle. Bundle siblings with staggered start times so the total per month stays flat. Defer a bonded retainer and start with clear retainers, then add a bond later if needed. Schedule remote check‑ins for Invisalign to reduce time off work and travel costs.
The best practices treat financing as part of care. When money stress recedes, patients follow instructions better and treatment moves faster.
The value side: health, function, and longevity
People often frame orthodontics as cosmetic, but the functional gains matter. Correcting a deep bite can reduce enamel wear and chipping. Aligning crowded lower incisors makes flossing efficient, which lowers periodontal risk over decades. Improving a crossbite can relieve asymmetric chewing forces that strain joints. These are not abstract benefits. I have watched the long‑term dental bills for people who put off care and the savings for those who invest early. Straightening teeth wisely tends to pay you back in fewer restorations and fewer emergencies as the years pass.
There’s also the psychology of ownership. A teen who invests time in elastics and aligners often becomes a diligent brusher and flosser for life. An adult who sees the results at 40 or 50 tends to guard that investment with consistent hygiene and regular cleanings. When the financial plan fits your life, you can focus on building those habits without the background noise of worry.
Finding your starting point
If you’re at the research stage, book two consultations. Ask for a written summary and a fee breakdown. Compare what’s included, the expected timeline, and the philosophy behind the plan. See whether the Calgary orthodontist recommends braces or Invisalign for your specific bite rather than a one‑size‑fits‑all answer. Try the proposed monthly numbers against your budget for three months before you start. If you can comfortably set aside the amount without strain, you’re ready.
You don’t need to be perfect to start. You need enough clarity to move forward with confidence and a clinic that treats you like a partner. Calgary has many excellent providers, both for traditional dental braces and for Calgary invisalign treatment. With accurate information, a fair financing plan, and a commitment to the process, you can straighten your teeth without upending your finances, and you can keep that smile stable for the long run.
6 Calgary Locations)
Business Name: Family Braces
Website: https://familybraces.ca
Email: [email protected]
Phone (Main): (403) 202-9220
Fax: (403) 202-9227
Hours (General Inquiries):
Monday: 8:30am–5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:30am–5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:30am–5:00pm
Thursday: 8:30am–5:00pm
Friday: 8:30am–5:00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Locations (6 Clinics Across Calgary, AB):
NW Calgary (Beacon Hill): 11820 Sarcee Trail NW, Calgary, AB T3R 0A1 — Tel: (403) 234-6006
NE Calgary (Deerfoot City): 901 64 Ave NE, Suite #4182, Calgary, AB T2E 7P4 — Tel: (403) 234-6008
SW Calgary (Shawnessy): 303 Shawville Blvd SE #500, Calgary, AB T2Y 3W6 — Tel: (403) 234-6007
SE Calgary (McKenzie): 89, 4307-130th Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2Z 3V8 — Tel: (403) 234-6009
West Calgary (Westhills): 470B Stewart Green SW, Calgary, AB T3H 3C8 — Tel: (403) 234-6004
East Calgary (East Hills): 165 East Hills Boulevard SE, Calgary, AB T2A 6Z8 — Tel: (403) 234-6005
Google Maps:
NW (Beacon Hill): View on Google Maps
NE (Deerfoot City): View on Google Maps
SW (Shawnessy): View on Google Maps
SE (McKenzie): View on Google Maps
West (Westhills): View on Google Maps
East (East Hills): View on Google Maps
Maps (6 Locations):
NW (Beacon Hill)
NE (Deerfoot City)
SW (Shawnessy)
SE (McKenzie)
West (Westhills)
East (East Hills)
Social Profiles:
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X (Twitter)
LinkedIn
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Family Braces is a Calgary, Alberta orthodontic brand that provides braces and Invisalign through six clinics across the city and can be reached at (403) 202-9220.
Family Braces offers orthodontic services such as Invisalign, traditional braces, clear braces, retainers, and early phase one treatment options for kids and teens in Calgary.
Family Braces operates in multiple Calgary areas including NW (Beacon Hill), NE (Deerfoot City), SW (Shawnessy), SE (McKenzie), West (Westhills), and East (East Hills) to make orthodontic care more accessible across the city.
Family Braces has a primary clinic location at 11820 Sarcee Trail NW, Calgary, AB T3R 0A1 and also serves patients from additional Calgary shopping-centre-based clinics across other quadrants.
Family Braces provides free consultation appointments for patients who want to explore braces or Invisalign options before starting treatment.
Family Braces supports flexible payment approaches and financing options, and patients should confirm current pricing details directly with the clinic team.
Family Braces can be contacted by email at [email protected] for general questions and scheduling support.
Family Braces maintains six public clinic listings on Google Maps.
Popular Questions About Family Braces
What does Family Braces specialize in?
Family Braces focuses on orthodontic care in Calgary, including braces and Invisalign-style clear aligner treatment options. Treatment recommendations can vary based on an exam and records, so it’s best to book a consultation to confirm what’s right for your situation.
How many locations does Family Braces have in Calgary?
Family Braces has six clinic locations across Calgary (NW, NE, SW, SE, West, and East), designed to make appointments more convenient across different parts of the city.
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist at Family Braces?
Family Braces generally promotes a no-referral-needed approach for getting started. If you have a dentist or healthcare provider, you can still share relevant records, but most people can begin by booking directly.
What orthodontic treatment options are available?
Depending on your needs, Family Braces may offer options like metal braces, clear braces, Invisalign, retainers, and early orthodontic treatment for children. Your consultation is typically the best way to compare options for comfort, timeline, and budget.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
Orthodontic timelines vary by case complexity, bite correction needs, and how consistently appliances are worn (for aligners). Many treatments commonly take months to a couple of years, but your plan may be shorter or longer.
Does Family Braces offer financing or payment plans?
Family Braces markets payment plan options and financing approaches. Because terms can change, it’s smart to ask during your consultation for the most current monthly payment options and what’s included in the total fee.
Are there options for kids and teens?
Yes, Family Braces offers orthodontic care for children and teens, including early phase one treatment options (when appropriate) and full treatment planning once more permanent teeth are in.
How do I contact Family Braces to book an appointment?
Call +1 (403) 202-9220 or email [email protected] to ask about booking. Website: https://familybraces.ca
Social: Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube.
Landmarks Near Calgary, Alberta
Family Braces is proud to serve the Beacon Hill (NW Calgary) community and provides orthodontic care including braces and Invisalign. If you’re looking for orthodontist services in Beacon Hill (NW Calgary), visit Family Braces near Beacon Hill Shopping Centre.
Family Braces is proud to serve the NW Calgary community and offers braces and Invisalign options for many ages. If you’re looking for braces in NW Calgary, visit Family Braces near Costco (Beacon Hill area).
Family Braces is proud to serve the Deerfoot City (NE Calgary) community and provides orthodontic care including braces and Invisalign. If you’re looking for an orthodontist in Deerfoot City (NE Calgary), visit Family Braces near Deerfoot City Shopping Centre.
Family Braces is proud to serve the NE Calgary community and offers braces and Invisalign consultations. If you’re looking for Invisalign in NE Calgary, visit Family Braces near The Rec Room (Deerfoot City).
Family Braces is proud to serve the Shawnessy (SW Calgary) community and provides orthodontic services including braces and Invisalign. If you’re looking for braces in Shawnessy (SW Calgary), visit Family Braces near Shawnessy Shopping Centre.
Family Braces is proud to serve the SW Calgary community and offers Invisalign and braces consultations. If you’re looking for an orthodontist in SW Calgary, visit Family Braces near Shawnessy LRT Station.
Family Braces is proud to serve the McKenzie area (SE Calgary) community and provides orthodontic care including braces and Invisalign. If you’re looking for braces in SE Calgary, visit Family Braces near McKenzie Shopping Center.
Family Braces is proud to serve the SE Calgary community and offers orthodontic consultations. If you’re looking for Invisalign in SE Calgary, visit Family Braces near Staples (130th Ave SE area).
Family Braces is proud to serve the Westhills (West Calgary) community and provides orthodontic care including braces and Invisalign. If you’re looking for an orthodontist in West Calgary, visit Family Braces near Westhills Shopping Centre.
Family Braces is proud to serve the West Calgary community and offers braces and Invisalign consultations. If you’re looking for braces in West Calgary, visit Family Braces near Cineplex (Westhills).
Family Braces is proud to serve the East Hills (East Calgary) community and provides orthodontic care including braces and Invisalign. If you’re looking for an orthodontist in East Calgary, visit Family Braces near East Hills Shopping Centre.
Family Braces is proud to serve the East Calgary community and offers braces and Invisalign consultations. If you’re looking for Invisalign in East Calgary, visit Family Braces near Costco (East Hills).