Overcoming the Cost Barrier for Braces: Choices and Options in 2026
As we step into 2026, many individuals are pledging to tackle their dental aesthetics. The desire to get braces has become a common New Year’s resolution among those seeking a perfect smile. However, the persistent surge in living costs has also infiltrated the dental industry, affecting material prices and leading to concerns about rising treatment costs.
In response to this issue, Oh my teeth, a brand specializing in mouthguard orthodontics and operated by the Tokyo-based company, conducted research involving 457 individuals who have previously undergone orthodontic treatments. This survey aimed to reveal the actual versus expected costs associated with orthodontic treatment.
The findings were quite revealing: a significant segment of 23.4% had invested more than 1 million yen in their orthodontic treatments. Contrastingly, a notable 41.2% of respondents found themselves finishing treatment for less than 400,000 yen. This reflects a trend towards 'cost polarization' in orthodontics, propelled by the increasing popularity of partial braces, which allows consumers to select treatment options that align with their budget and desires.
1. New Year’s Hurdles
When queried about their expected budget before treatment, the most common response was "over 800,000 yen" (25.8%). The perception of orthodontics as an expensive endeavor is deeply entrenched, with 30.4% of respondents indicating they had not imagined the costs at all.
Many may be reluctant to pursue orthodontics due to the intimidation of high expenses and the fear of being pressured into expensive commitments at clinics.
2. Reality Check
The actual expenditures reveal a notable divide between those who spend more than 1 million yen and those who conclude treatment for less than 400,000 yen. Respondents indicate that they are making more informed decisions rather than automatically opting for comprehensive treatments; they are now increasingly exploring targeted options to meet their needs financially and personally.
The percentage of participants completing treatment for less than 400,000 yen stood at 41.13%, with 10.9% finishing for less than 100,000 yen. Notably, a breakdown shows that 62.3% of those pursuing full orthodontics spend more than 800,000 yen.
3. Structural Insights
The crux of this cost disparity lies in the scope of treatment. The data suggests that around 70% of individuals opting for partial braces completed treatment at under 400,000 yen, whereas roughly 60% of those opting for full braces incurred costs exceeding 800,000 yen.
According to comments from Nobuyasu Honda, director of the Oh my teeth clinics, the year 2026 will likely amplify consumers' focus on cost-effectiveness amidst soaring inflation. The paradigm is shifting from a medical institution-driven model of expensive treatments to one in which patients can empower their choice of treatment approaches. It is essential to understand that higher costs do not necessarily equate to better quality, nor do lower costs signify compromise in treatment outcomes.
Consumers must undergo a scientifically backed evaluation before selecting the most suitable plan to align with their goals, whether it be a comprehensive makeover or targeted adjustment. It is this informed choice that is set to become the new standard in orthodontics as we move forward.
To encourage and facilitate individuals in overcoming financial obstacles in their dental journeys, Oh my teeth maintains transparent and comprehensive pricing strategies.
Transparent Pricing Initiatives by Oh my teeth
As 2026 approaches, Oh my teeth is committed to enhancing transparency in pricing and diagnosis technologies, enabling individuals to invest in their dental health confidently.
As individuals step into the new year with aspirations for a better smile, awareness of potential costs and the nature of available treatments becomes crucial. The pathway to orthodontics is becoming increasingly navigable through technological advancements and informed decision-making processes.
In response to this issue, Oh my teeth, a brand specializing in mouthguard orthodontics and operated by the Tokyo-based company, conducted research involving 457 individuals who have previously undergone orthodontic treatments. This survey aimed to reveal the actual versus expected costs associated with orthodontic treatment.
The findings were quite revealing: a significant segment of 23.4% had invested more than 1 million yen in their orthodontic treatments. Contrastingly, a notable 41.2% of respondents found themselves finishing treatment for less than 400,000 yen. This reflects a trend towards 'cost polarization' in orthodontics, propelled by the increasing popularity of partial braces, which allows consumers to select treatment options that align with their budget and desires.
Survey Overview
- - Survey Name: Awareness Survey on Dental Alignment
- - Survey Duration: November 27, 2025
- - Methodology: Internet-based survey
- - Participants: 457 males and females aged 10 to 70 who have experienced orthodontic treatment
- - Geographical Scope: Nationwide
Cost Polarization in Orthodontics: An Accelerating Trend in Inflationary Times
1. New Year’s Hurdles
When queried about their expected budget before treatment, the most common response was "over 800,000 yen" (25.8%). The perception of orthodontics as an expensive endeavor is deeply entrenched, with 30.4% of respondents indicating they had not imagined the costs at all.
Many may be reluctant to pursue orthodontics due to the intimidation of high expenses and the fear of being pressured into expensive commitments at clinics.
2. Reality Check
The actual expenditures reveal a notable divide between those who spend more than 1 million yen and those who conclude treatment for less than 400,000 yen. Respondents indicate that they are making more informed decisions rather than automatically opting for comprehensive treatments; they are now increasingly exploring targeted options to meet their needs financially and personally.
The percentage of participants completing treatment for less than 400,000 yen stood at 41.13%, with 10.9% finishing for less than 100,000 yen. Notably, a breakdown shows that 62.3% of those pursuing full orthodontics spend more than 800,000 yen.
3. Structural Insights
The crux of this cost disparity lies in the scope of treatment. The data suggests that around 70% of individuals opting for partial braces completed treatment at under 400,000 yen, whereas roughly 60% of those opting for full braces incurred costs exceeding 800,000 yen.
A Positive Outlook: Smart Choices Ahead in 2026
According to comments from Nobuyasu Honda, director of the Oh my teeth clinics, the year 2026 will likely amplify consumers' focus on cost-effectiveness amidst soaring inflation. The paradigm is shifting from a medical institution-driven model of expensive treatments to one in which patients can empower their choice of treatment approaches. It is essential to understand that higher costs do not necessarily equate to better quality, nor do lower costs signify compromise in treatment outcomes.
Consumers must undergo a scientifically backed evaluation before selecting the most suitable plan to align with their goals, whether it be a comprehensive makeover or targeted adjustment. It is this informed choice that is set to become the new standard in orthodontics as we move forward.
To encourage and facilitate individuals in overcoming financial obstacles in their dental journeys, Oh my teeth maintains transparent and comprehensive pricing strategies.
Transparent Pricing Initiatives by Oh my teeth
- - Total Fee Structure with No Hidden Charges: Extensions on treatment duration will not incur additional costs under usual circumstances.
- - Unified Plans: Simple fee structures based on treatment scope (Basic plan: 330,000 yen / Pro plan: 660,000 yen) are established.
- - Data-Driven Diagnosis: Visual explanations based on 3D scan data to demonstrate the necessity of proposed plans.
As 2026 approaches, Oh my teeth is committed to enhancing transparency in pricing and diagnosis technologies, enabling individuals to invest in their dental health confidently.
Conclusion
As individuals step into the new year with aspirations for a better smile, awareness of potential costs and the nature of available treatments becomes crucial. The pathway to orthodontics is becoming increasingly navigable through technological advancements and informed decision-making processes.
Topics Health）
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