- October 6, 2026
- Posted by: adentalclinic
- Category: Blogs
The cost of braces in Singapore depends on the orthodontic treatment required, the type of appliance selected and the services included in the treatment fee. A quotation for fitting braces may cover only certain components of treatment, while a more comprehensive treatment plan may also include diagnostic records, adjustment appointments, appliance removal and retainers.
This guide explains the differences between metal, ceramic and self-ligating braces, the factors that can affect treatment fees, and questions to ask before starting treatment. An individual assessment is needed to establish suitability and an estimated cost. The calculation example below is hypothetical and does not represent A Dental Clinic’s fees or Singapore market prices.
How Much Do Braces Cost in Singapore?
The cost of braces treatment in Singapore depends on the treatment required, the appliance selected and what the fee includes.
There is no single fee that applies to every patient. The amount of tooth movement, bite correction, preparatory treatment and follow up required can differ, even for patients using the same type of braces.
Request an itemised estimate that states whether the fee covers one arch or both arches, records, fitting, routine adjustments, removal, retainers and reviews. Confirm which services are charged separately and how fees would be affected if the treatment plan changes.
Metal, Ceramic and Self-Ligating Braces
The terms metal, ceramic and self-ligating do not describe three completely separate types of braces. Metal and ceramic describe the bracket material. Self ligating describes how the bracket holds the wire, so self ligating brackets can be metal or ceramic. These categories overlap and are not three entirely separate materials.
| Appliance | Main features | Points to discuss |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional metal braces | Metal brackets attached to the teeth. Small elastic or wire ties hold the archwire in place. | Clinical suitability, appearance, care requirements and the full treatment fee. |
| Conventional ceramic braces | Tooth coloured or translucent brackets. The wire and other components may still be visible. | Suitability for the bite, appliance care and any difference in fees. |
| Self ligating braces | A built in clip or sliding mechanism holds the wire. Metal and ceramic versions are available. | The reason for selecting this mechanism and how the overall treatment plan is priced. |
The type of bracket mechanism alone does not establish that treatment will be faster, more comfortable or require fewer appointments. British Orthodontic Society guidance notes that self ligating mechanisms have not been shown to produce superior results compared with conventional fixed appliances. Appointment intervals and treatment duration should be discussed for the individual case.
Other options may include lingual braces, which are fitted behind the teeth, or removable clear aligners. Suitability, availability and fees require separate assessment. A dentist may recommend specialist assessment where the diagnosis or treatment needs warrant it.
What Affects the Total Braces Fee?
The Treatment Required
Crowding, spacing, tooth positions and the way the upper and lower teeth meet affect the proposed treatment. Some patients require additional procedures or coordination with other dental care. A limited correction and a comprehensive bite correction may involve different treatment plans and fees.
The Appliance and Clinical Services
Appliance materials, laboratory work, clinician fees and the scope of treatment can affect the estimate. Ask who will assess and treat you, whether specialist referral is recommended, and how any referral would affect your care and costs. Price alone does not establish clinical suitability or the outcome you can expect.
Records and Preparatory Treatment
An examination, photographs, impressions or intraoral scans, and clinically indicated X rays may form part of assessment and planning. An intraoral scan records tooth and gum surfaces; a CBCT scan is a different investigation and is not a routine requirement for every braces patient.
If extractions, fillings, gum treatment or cleaning are recommended, ask why they are needed and whether their fees are separate. Extractions are not required in every orthodontic case.
Reviews and Changes During Treatment
Confirm whether routine adjustments are included in a total fee or charged per visit. A longer course does not automatically mean a higher bill under every payment arrangement. Ask how additional visits, appliance repairs, a change of plan or treatment extending beyond the initial estimate would be charged.
Removal, Retainers and Ongoing Care
Check whether braces removal, the first retainers and subsequent reviews are included. Retainers help reduce tooth movement after treatment and must be worn as instructed. Repair or replacement fees may arise over time. Routine dental care may also be charged separately from orthodontic visits.
GST
GST registered businesses must display and quote prices to the public inclusive of GST. The prevailing GST rate is 9%. Ask for the total payable including GST where applicable, rather than relying on a fee described only as before GST.
A checklist for Reading Your Braces Estimate
Before accepting a quotation, consider asking:
- Does the estimate cover the upper teeth, lower teeth or both?
- Are consultation, records, fitting and routine adjustments included?
- Are extractions or other dental treatments charged separately?
- Does the fee include removal, retainers and retention reviews?
- What charges apply for repairs, replacement appliances or additional visits?
- What happens to the fees if treatment changes or you transfer to another clinic?
- Does the stated total include GST where applicable?
Understanding Payment Arrangements
Payment arrangements vary between clinics. Where staged payments are available, request the total fee, the initial payment, the amount and timing of subsequent payments, and any interest or administrative charges. Ask whether payments are scheduled by calendar date, treatment stage or attendance at visits.
A monthly payment is not the total cost of treatment. Check how many payments are required, what they cover and whether any separate fees remain payable. Students, national servicemen and working adults can use the same checklist when budgeting for care.
A Hypothetical Braces Cost Calculation
The figures below are invented solely to illustrate how an itemised orthodontic estimate may be calculated. They do not represent an actual patient bill, A Dental Clinic’s fees or typical Singapore market pricing. For this example, all amounts are assumed to include GST.
| Illustrative item | Hypothetical fee including GST |
|---|---|
| Records and assessment | S$218.00 |
| Fixed braces treatment including routine adjustments and removal | S$4,360.00 |
| Initial retainers | S$327.00 |
| Illustrative total | S$4,905.00 |
This example assumes no separate extraction, preparatory dental treatment or repair charges are required. Actual estimates may include different items depending on the patient’s clinical needs and the clinic’s fee structure.
If staged payments are offered, the payment schedule should clearly explain how the full treatment total will be paid and whether any items remain separately chargeable.
MediSave, CHAS and Insurance
Routine orthodontic treatment, including braces and clear aligners, is generally not MediSave claimable. If a separate surgical procedure is clinically required, its eligibility for MediSave must be assessed under the applicable CPF rules. Eligibility for surgery does not make the braces treatment itself claimable.
Braces are not included in the listed CHAS dental services. Eligible cardholders may receive subsidies for selected other dental procedures at participating clinics, subject to clinical assessment and claim limits. A procedure performed before braces does not automatically qualify for a subsidy.
Insurance coverage varies by policy. Check whether orthodontics is included, the applicable limits and exclusions, and whether approval is required before treatment. Do not assume that an employer dental benefit or general health insurance policy covers braces.
Treatment Duration, Suitability and Risks
Orthodontic treatment takes place gradually. Duration and review intervals depend on the diagnosis, planned movements and progress. Appliance breakages, missed appointments and difficulty following instructions may affect treatment. An estimated completion date is not a guarantee.
Adults may be suitable for treatment after assessment of tooth, gum and bone health. Age alone does not determine suitability, and outcomes vary between individuals.
Possible risks include discomfort, mouth irritation, enamel demineralisation or decay, gum problems, root shortening and movement of teeth after treatment. Your dentist should explain relevant risks and limitations before treatment. Follow the cleaning, appliance care and retainer instructions provided, and continue routine dental reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are metal braces always the lowest cost option?
Fees depend on the appliance, scope of care and services included. Request an individual estimate for clinically suitable options rather than choosing on the bracket price alone.
Do self-ligating braces finish treatment faster?
A self ligating mechanism alone does not establish a shorter course. The diagnosis, planned tooth movements and progress determine the estimated duration.
How much are braces per month?
Monthly payments depend on the total agreed fee and payment schedule. Confirm the number of payments, any initial payment and separate charges. A monthly amount should be considered alongside the full treatment total.
Can I use MediSave or CHAS for braces?
Routine braces treatment is generally not MediSave claimable and is not a listed CHAS dental service. Any separate procedure needs its own eligibility assessment.
Is there an age limit for adult braces?
Adults can be assessed for orthodontic treatment. Oral health, the condition of the supporting tissues and the proposed movements affect suitability.
Can my braces be completed in three months?
A fixed completion time cannot be promised. Your dentist can discuss the scope of correction and estimated duration after assessment.
Will I need to pay for retainers after braces?
Check whether the initial retainers and reviews are included in your estimate. Replacement or repair charges may apply later.
Braces Assessment at A Dental Clinic
A Dental Clinic provides braces assessment and treatment. Patients may contact the clinic for information about consultation arrangements and fees. Following an examination and any clinically indicated investigations, the dentist can discuss suitable options, treatment risks and an individual estimate. Specialist referral may be recommended where appropriate.
This article provides general information and does not replace an individual dental assessment. Scheme eligibility is subject to prevailing rules.
Sources and further information
British Orthodontic Society information on fixed braces: https://bos.org.uk/conventional/
National Dental Centre Singapore information on braces: https://www.ndcs.com.sg/our-specialties/orthodontics/all-about-braces
CPF Board information on MediSave eligibility for orthodontics: https://www.cpf.gov.sg/service/article/can-i-use-my-medisave-for-optional-cosmetic-treatments-like-liposuction-orthodontics-treatment-or-laser-surgery-to-correct-short-sightedness
CHAS dental services and claim limits: https://www.chas.sg/Using-CHAS/Whats-Covered/Dental-Services
IRAS requirements for displaying and quoting prices: https://www.iras.gov.sg/taxes/goods-services-tax-(gst)/basics-of-gst/invoicing-price-display-and-record-keeping/displaying-and-quoting-prices