Kids’ Braces In Australia: What’s Covered, What’s Not, And How To Get Started

Quick answers to common questions

Can kids get braces for free in Australia? In most cases, no. Public funding for orthodontics is very limited and tied to strict eligibility criteria. Most families access care privately with payment plans.

Does Medicare cover braces for kids? Medicare does not cover routine orthodontic treatment such as braces or aligners. It may contribute to medical services associated with surgery or complex dental conditions if billed under Medicare by a hospital or specialist physician. Routine braces are not funded.

How do you get started with children’s orthodontic care? Book an orthodontic assessment, bring your questions, and leave with a personalised plan and a clear quote. Early checks around age 6 to 8 are encouraged.

What makes Bachmayer’s approach special for young patients? Specialist-led care, gentle communication, tech that simplifies appointments, and flexible payments. We tailor treatment to your child’s needs and your family’s budget.

What Medicare and private health cover, in plain language

Medicare

• Medicare does not pay for standard braces, aligners, or most orthodontic visits.
• If a child needs jaw surgery or hospital-based procedures, Medicare may contribute to the medical component. This is separate from routine orthodontics.

Private health insurance

• Some extras policies pay a lifetime orthodontic benefit. This is usually a fixed amount that renews yearly up to a cap.
• Waiting periods are common. Check your fund for waiting time, annual limit, lifetime limit, and what appliances are included.
• Bring your policy details to your consultation. We can help you estimate rebates.

Other ways families pay

• Interest-free payment plans spread the cost across treatment, often over 18 to 24 months.
• Deposits can be modest, with weekly or fortnightly instalments.
• Discounts may apply for upfront payment or for multiple family members. We outline all options at your visit.

If you would like to compare fees before visiting, explore the cost guides on our website.

Your step-by-step checklist to start children’s braces

Book an assessment

Schedule a child consultation - we also offer virtual screenings as a first look. If you have a recent dental check-up or X-rays, bring them along. If not, we will organise what is needed.

Meet your specialist and treatment coordinator

We examine teeth, bite, jaw growth, and oral health. Digital scans and X-rays help us see developing adult teeth, crowding, or impacted canines. You will get a clear explanation of options, such as early interceptive care, traditional braces, clear braces, or Invisalign® First, depending on your child’s needs.

Review your personalised plan and quote

We provide a written plan, an estimated timeline, and a total fee. Typical comprehensive treatment runs 18 to 24 months, although some cases are shorter. We outline payment plans, deposits, weekly instalments, and any eligible private health rebates.

Decide on timing

Many families prefer to begin when most adult teeth are present. Others benefit from early interceptive treatment to guide jaw growth or make space for adult teeth. If appropriate, we can offer same day starts, or you can pick a start date that suits school and sport.

Start smoothly

We teach your child how to care for braces, which foods to avoid, and how to handle minor discomfort in the first week. Regular check-ups keep things on track. We are always a phone call away for questions or urgent issues.

What braces for kids usually includes

• Full diagnostic records - photos, scans, and X-rays to plan with precision.
• Appliances tailored to your child - metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign® First for suitable cases.
• Regular adjustments and progress checks.
• Oral hygiene coaching to prevent white spots and cavities.
• Sports mouthguard guidance for active kids.
• Retainers at the end to protect the result. Long term, retainers matter.

What is not usually included

• General dentistry such as fillings or cleans. Your family dentist handles those.
• Surgical or hospital fees for combined orthodontic and surgical care. We coordinate with surgeons if needed and outline these costs separately.
• Replacement of lost or damaged appliances beyond standard inclusions. We explain any applicable charges before treatment starts.

When to book an early assessment

An orthodontic check around age 6 to 8 can spot issues early. Signs include crowded or protruding front teeth, crossbites, early or late loss of baby teeth, thumb or finger habits, and concerns with jaw growth. Early interceptive care can reduce complexity later, shorten future treatment, and improve comfort now.

Why families choose our clinic

• Specialist Orthodontists with 30+ years of experience
• Invisalign® Diamond Provider expertise for aligners
• Friendly, efficient appointments designed for children
• Digital scanning for comfort and accuracy - no messy moulds
• Clear fees, interest-free plans, and help with private health claims
• Same day starts when appropriate, and close coordination with your dentist

We care about the small things that make a big difference, like on-time visits, simple instructions, and encouragement at every step. Many families return with siblings because the experience is calm, predictable, and positive.

Braces, aligners, or early appliances: choosing what fits your child

• Traditional braces - reliable for mild to complex cases, with colour elastic options that kids enjoy.
• Clear braces - a more discreet fixed option, often at a higher fee.
• Invisalign® First or Teen - nearly invisible, removable for eating and brushing, and great for confident smiles. Success depends on wearing aligners as directed.
• Interceptive appliances - expanders, space maintainers, and other devices can guide growth and create space before full treatment.

We recommend what matches your child’s diagnosis, lifestyle, and your goals. We discuss pros and cons in clear terms.

Cost clarity and support

Indicative fees for braces in Sydney range broadly depending on complexity and appliance type. At your consultation, you receive a precise quote and a payment pathway that fits your budget.

Ready to begin?

If you are in the Hills District, we would love to meet you. Book with our team for a friendly, thorough assessment and a clear plan for your child.

Summary: calm, clear steps to a confident smile

• Medicare does not cover routine children’s braces. Private insurance may help through extras with waiting periods and limits.
• Start with an early assessment, a personalised plan, and a transparent quote.
• Choose the treatment that fits your child’s needs and your routine, from braces to Invisalign® First.
• Use interest-free payment plans to spread costs comfortably.
• Lean on our Specialist Orthodontists for steady guidance, from first visit to retainers.

When you are ready, we are here to make the process simple and supportive, so your child can smile with confidence for years to come.