Can I get a loan for Invisalign, or just traditional braces?

Absolutely. A personal loan for dental work can be used for any type of orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or lingual braces. The funds are sent to your bank account, giving you the freedom to pay for the specific treatment plan you and your orthodontist decide is best.

Can I get financing for adult braces if I have bad credit?

While a higher credit score will generally secure better rates, options are available for individuals with varying credit profiles. Some lenders specialize in loans for people with fair or poor credit. Checking your options through our platform will show you what you may qualify for without impacting your credit score. Applying with a co-signer with good credit can also increase your chances of approval.

Is it better to use a personal loan or the orthodontist's in-house payment plan?

It depends on the terms. In-house plans are often interest-free, which is a major benefit. However, they usually require a significant down payment and are less flexible. A personal loan might have interest, but it covers the full cost upfront, gives you a predictable monthly payment over a longer term, and allows you to pay any provider. It's best to compare the total cost of both options before deciding.

Does the loan cover the full cost, including retainers and follow-up appointments?

Yes. When you apply, you request a specific loan amount. You should calculate this amount based on the total estimated cost of your entire treatment plan from your orthodontist. This should include the braces or aligners, all scheduled appointments, any necessary X-rays or imaging, and the final retainer needed to maintain your results.

How quickly can I get the money for my braces?

The process is very fast. After you select a loan offer and complete the final application with the lender, approval can happen in minutes. Once approved and you've signed the loan agreement, funds are typically deposited directly into your checking account within 1-2 business days.

Will checking my rate for a dental loan affect my credit score?

No. Using our platform to check your potential rates and loan options involves a 'soft' credit inquiry, which does not impact your credit score. A 'hard' credit inquiry, which can affect your score, is only performed by the lender you choose once you decide to proceed with a full application.

Can I use a personal loan to pay for my child's braces?

Yes, many parents use personal loans to cover the cost of their children's orthodontic care. You would apply for the loan in your name, and once the funds are disbursed to your account, you can use them to pay the orthodontist directly for your child's treatment.

Financing for Orthodontics and Braces

Get a clear view of your payment options for traditional braces or clear aligners with a straightforward personal loan.

Check your rate

A Perfect Smile Shouldn't Create Financial Strain

The orthodontist's payment plan requires a large down payment you don't have.
A personal loan provides the full treatment cost upfront, letting you pay the orthodontist and then manage one predictable monthly payment.
Dental insurance only covers a small fraction of the total cost for braces or Invisalign.
Financing can bridge the gap between what insurance pays and the final bill, so you don't have to compromise on the best treatment option.
The high cost of adult braces feels overwhelming and out of reach on your current budget.
Our lending partners offer personal loans designed for medical and dental procedures, making adult orthodontic treatment affordable.
Trying to save up means delaying necessary treatment for yourself or your child.
Get the treatment you need now and pay for it over time with a fixed-rate loan, instead of waiting months or years while the issue potentially worsens.

Using a Personal Loan for Braces and Invisalign

When facing a significant expense like orthodontic work, a personal loan offers a clear and structured path to payment. Unlike in-house payment plans that are tied to a specific provider, or high-interest credit cards, a personal loan for braces provides you with a lump sum of cash. This gives you the power to pay your orthodontist in full, potentially unlocking pay-in-full discounts they may offer. You then repay the loan over a set period—typically two to five years—with a fixed interest rate and a consistent monthly payment. This predictability makes budgeting for your new smile simple and stress-free.

This type of financing is incredibly versatile. Whether you're considering traditional metal braces for a teenager, ceramic braces for a more discreet look, or an Invisalign finance plan for yourself, a dental loan can cover the entire cost. It's an ideal solution for covering the high upfront cost of adult braces, which are often less likely to be covered by insurance. The funds can be used for the complete treatment package, including consultations, the braces or aligners themselves, follow-up appointments, and even the final retainers.

Your Path to Financing Orthodontic Treatment

1
Enter Your Loan Amount
Tell us how much your orthodontic treatment costs. The initial inquiry takes two minutes and will not affect your credit score.
2
Compare Your Loan Options
Instantly see rates, terms, and monthly payments from our nationwide network of lending partners who specialize in dental loans.
3
Select Your Offer & Get Funded
Choose the best plan for your budget. Once approved, funds are typically deposited directly into your bank account in as little as one business day.

Estimating Your Total Orthodontic Cost

Traditional Metal Braces National Average	$3,000 - $7,000
Ceramic (Clear) Braces National Average	$4,000 - $8,000
Invisalign / Clear Aligners National Average	$3,500 - $8,500
Lingual Braces National Average	$8,000 - $10,000

Estimated monthly

Approx. $120/mo

Based on a $5,500 loan with a 5-year term at 11% APR.

The cost of braces can vary significantly based on your geographic location, the complexity of your dental needs, and the experience of your orthodontist. The figures above represent typical ranges. It's crucial to get a detailed treatment plan and quote from your provider before seeking financing. Remember to ask if the quote is all-inclusive or if there will be separate charges for items like X-rays, retainers, or emergency appointments. This total figure is the amount you'll want to apply for.

See What Your Monthly Payment Could Be

Get a real-time look at your potential monthly payments for braces or Invisalign before you commit.

Check your rate

Loan amount: $2,000 – $10,000
APR: 7.99% – 35.99%
Term: 24 mo – 60 mo

Your actual APR depends on your credit score, loan amount, term, and credit history. Not all applicants will qualify for the lowest rate. All loans are subject to lender review and approval.

The terms of your loan are determined by the lender based on their assessment of your creditworthiness. A stronger credit profile generally leads to a lower Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which saves you money over the life of the loan. Longer terms, like 60 months, will result in lower monthly payments but may lead to more interest paid overall. Shorter terms mean higher monthly payments but less total interest. Our platform allows you to see how different terms affect your payment so you can choose the best fit for your financial situation.

Comparing Your Braces Financing Options

When deciding how to pay for orthodontic work, you have several choices. While your orthodontist's in-house payment plan might seem convenient, it's important to weigh it against other options like a personal loan or a medical credit card. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages related to interest rates, flexibility, and impact on your credit. Understanding these differences is key to making the most financially sound decision for your family.

Personal Loan vs. Other Orthodontic Payment Methods

	Personal Loan	In-House Payment Plan	Medical Credit Card
Interest Rate	Fixed APR (e.g., 8-35.99%)	Often 0% interest	High variable APR after a 0% intro period
Upfront Payment	None required	Often requires a large down payment	None required
Flexibility	Pay any provider; funds sent to you	Tied to a single orthodontist's office	Only accepted at participating providers
Credit Impact	Builds credit with on-time payments	May not be reported to credit bureaus	Standard credit card reporting; can impact utilization

What Lenders Look For

Credit Score: Most lenders prefer a score of 600 or higher. Some partners specialize in lending to individuals with less-than-perfect credit.
Verifiable Income: You'll need to show proof of steady income from employment, self-employment, or another reliable source.
Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: Lenders look for a manageable DTI, typically below 45%, to ensure you can comfortably handle a new payment.
Credit History: A consistent history of on-time payments on other debts demonstrates financial responsibility to lenders.
Age and Residency: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

If you are concerned about your credit, consider applying with a co-signer who has a stronger credit profile. This can significantly improve your chances of approval and help you secure a lower interest rate.

Find Out if You Qualify

Checking your eligibility is fast, free, and won't leave a mark on your credit report.

See Your Options

Smart Strategies for Financing Orthodontic Work

Navigating the world of dental loans can be simple if you follow a few best practices. These tips can help you secure the best possible terms and avoid common pitfalls.

Get a Detailed Quote First: Before applying for a loan, get a comprehensive, all-inclusive treatment plan and cost breakdown from your orthodontist. This ensures you borrow the right amount.
Maximize Insurance Benefits: Understand exactly what your dental insurance will cover. You only need to finance the out-of-pocket portion of the cost.
Look Beyond the Monthly Payment: While a low monthly payment is appealing, also compare the APR and total interest paid over the life of the loan to understand the true cost.
Avoid Prepayment Penalties: Ensure the loan you choose does not have penalties for paying it off early. All of our lending partners offer loans with no prepayment fees.

Frequently Asked Questions About Braces Financing

Can I get a loan for Invisalign, or just traditional braces?
Absolutely. A personal loan for dental work can be used for any type of orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or lingual braces. The funds are sent to your bank account, giving you the freedom to pay for the specific treatment plan you and your orthodontist decide is best.
Can I get financing for adult braces if I have bad credit?
While a higher credit score will generally secure better rates, options are available for individuals with varying credit profiles. Some lenders specialize in loans for people with fair or poor credit. Checking your options through our platform will show you what you may qualify for without impacting your credit score. Applying with a co-signer with good credit can also increase your chances of approval.
Is it better to use a personal loan or the orthodontist's in-house payment plan?
It depends on the terms. In-house plans are often interest-free, which is a major benefit. However, they usually require a significant down payment and are less flexible. A personal loan might have interest, but it covers the full cost upfront, gives you a predictable monthly payment over a longer term, and allows you to pay any provider. It's best to compare the total cost of both options before deciding.
Does the loan cover the full cost, including retainers and follow-up appointments?
Yes. When you apply, you request a specific loan amount. You should calculate this amount based on the total estimated cost of your entire treatment plan from your orthodontist. This should include the braces or aligners, all scheduled appointments, any necessary X-rays or imaging, and the final retainer needed to maintain your results.
How quickly can I get the money for my braces?
The process is very fast. After you select a loan offer and complete the final application with the lender, approval can happen in minutes. Once approved and you've signed the loan agreement, funds are typically deposited directly into your checking account within 1-2 business days.
Will checking my rate for a dental loan affect my credit score?
No. Using our platform to check your potential rates and loan options involves a 'soft' credit inquiry, which does not impact your credit score. A 'hard' credit inquiry, which can affect your score, is only performed by the lender you choose once you decide to proceed with a full application.
Can I use a personal loan to pay for my child's braces?
Yes, many parents use personal loans to cover the cost of their children's orthodontic care. You would apply for the loan in your name, and once the funds are disbursed to your account, you can use them to pay the orthodontist directly for your child's treatment.

Ready to Create Your Perfect Smile?

Your journey to a confident smile is just a few clicks away. See your personalized loan options now.

Check Your Personalized Rates

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Personal loan disclosure

Money Savvy is not a lender. We are a marketing service that connects consumers with participating lenders. Rates, amounts, and terms vary by lender, your credit history, and other factors.

Loan amounts: $1,000 – $100,000
Repayment terms: 3 – 84 months
Min APR: 5.99%
Max APR: 35.99%
Origination fees: 0% – 10% of the loan amount
Late fees: May apply; vary by lender

Representative example: A $10,000 loan with a 36-month term at an 18.99% APR would have an approximate monthly payment of $366.39 and a total cost of $13,190.04, including interest and a $500 origination fee.

Your actual APR depends on your credit score, income, and other factors. Only borrow what you can afford to repay.

California residents: California Financing Law disclosures available upon request.