Investing in Expertise
Clarity on the cost of care.
In an era of hidden fees and “teaser rates,” we believe in transparency. Orthodontics is a medical investment, not a commodity. Understanding the market landscape is the first step to making a confident decision.
The Irvine Market Reality
We know you have choices. You have likely seen advertisements for mail-order aligners or “discount” braces. It is important to understand what you are paying for when you choose a provider.
The cost of orthodontic treatment in Orange County is determined by expertise, technology, and case complexity. Below is a breakdown of the current 2025-2026 market ranges for comprehensive treatment.
2026 Irvine Market Analysis
Average estimated costs for comprehensive treatment in the Irvine/Orange County area.
| Provider Tier | Est. Market Range | Clinical Expertise | Risk Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct-to-Consumer Mail Order Aligners | $1,800 – $2,500 | Remote / DIY Very mild relapse only. | High. No X-Rays or doctor supervision. High risk of bite ruin. |
| General Dentistry Invisalign Providers | $4,000 – $6,000 | General Dentist Simple aesthetic alignment. | Moderate. Often treats aligners as a "product" rather than a force system. |
| Orthodontic Specialist Board Certified | $5,500 – $7,500 | Orthodontist (DDS, MS) All cases, including complex bites. | Low. Specialist training in biomechanics and skeletal growth. |
Where We Stand
Updike Orthodontics operates within the Orthodontic Specialist range. We do not compete with mail-order services or discount clinics because we do not offer the same product.
We offer Board Certified expertise. Our fees reflect the time, technology, and engineering required to achieve a stable, healthy result that lasts a lifetime.
The “Product” vs. The “Instrument”
Why is there a price difference between a General Dentist and an Orthodontist for the exact same brand of Invisalign?
Because Invisalign is not a product; it is an instrument.
Imagine buying a Steinway piano. The piano itself costs the same, whether it is played by a student or a concert pianist. But the music produced will be vastly different.
- The Generalist typically uses Invisalign’s automated software defaults. This works for simple straightening but often fails for bite correction.
- The Specialist (Dr. Updike) manually engineers the force system, overriding the software to ensure the roots move safely and the bite aligns. You are paying for the pilot, not the plane.
GrinGuard: Economic Assurance
We do not compromise on the quality of treatment, but we aggressively reduce the cost of retention.
The hidden cost of orthodontics is lost or broken retainers. In the Irvine market, replacing a retainer can range from $250 to $400 per arch ($500–$800 per set). Over a lifetime, this can add thousands to your total cost.
Our solution to this problem is GrinGuard. For a one-time enrollment fee, our patients get unlimited retainers for 5 years with a nominal copay. We believe protecting your investment should be affordable.
Insurance & Financing
We are experts at maximizing your benefits. Our financial coordinators will review your insurance policy to determine your orthodontic coverage (typically a lifetime benefit ranging from $1,000 to $2,500).
PPO Insurance
We accept most PPO insurance plans. We handle all the billing and paperwork for you, so you just pay your portion.
FSA & HSA
Orthodontics is a qualified medical expense. You can use your pre-tax Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account dollars to pay for treatment.
Flexible Financing
We offer interest-free in-house financing to fit your individual needs. You can spread the cost of treatment over the course of your care with low monthly payments.
Paid-in-Full
We offer a fee discount for payment in full at the onset of treatment. If you have insurance, this discount applies to the fee that is not covered by insurance.
Get your transparent quote.
Every smile is unique. Schedule your complimentary consultation to get a precise, no-obligation financial breakdown.