In today's society, perfectly straight teeth are a highly coveted trait. Unfortunately, very few people are born with this characteristic. There is, however, still hope for people who want to achieve a beautiful smile! There are many types of orthodontic care available to correct issues that may be present in the mouth, but it is important to research the topic before just diving in to a treatment plan. This will ultimately save you money and possibly shorten the time that the treatment will take. Braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. There are a few different types of braces that you can choose from based on what you are wanting out of your treatment.
Metal Brackets
Metal brackets are what most people envision when they think of braces. These are the small metal braces with the colored rubber bands holding a wire in place. These types of braces are popular among children and teens because the colored bands allow them to personalize the way that they look. Most orthodontists offer a wide array of colors and these will typically be changed at each appointment. This type of care is the least expensive option and can typically be done for about $3,000 - $7,000. This number will vary based on whether or not additional intervention is needed.
Ceramic Brackets
Ceramic brackets are similar in size and shape to their metallic counterparts, however they are made of a clear or tooth-colored material to help them blend in better. These brackets are popular among adults that want to be a bit more discreet about their orthodontic treatment. It is important to know that this option is often slightly more expensive than metal brackets. This option will run you between $4,000 and $8,000 Ceramic brackets are also much more likely to stain and break so it is critical that proper care is taken throughout the course of treatment.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces consist of the same brackets as traditional metal braces, however they are placed on the inside of the teeth. This makes them completely invisible from the outside, but they can be much more uncomfortable and difficult to get used to. Because the adjustments are more difficult, they can end up taking significantly longer than adjustments of brackets that are attached to the outsides of the teeth. This option is significantly more expensive than the others, typically ranging from about $8,000 - $10,000.
Plastic Aligners
Plastic aligners can be a great option for treatment as well. This option uses clear, plastic mouth guards that are custom made for the wearer. The guard will be replaced regularly with one that differs slightly to help move the teeth to the desired position. This option is another that is fairly discreet, as the mouth guards are nearly invisible when worn. Plastic aligners are a slightly more expensive option, but still relatively affordable, typically costing about $4,000 - $7,400. This option is not available for persons with more serious cases, so it's important to trust your orthodontist on whether or not it will work for you.
It is important to find an orthodontist in your area that has many different options available for care. This will allow you to pick the best option for yourself without breaking the bank. Also, check with your dental or health insurance to see if they will help cover some or all of the cost of your treatment. Many plans offer supplemental orthodontic coverage that can be very helpful in lessening your out-of-pocket costs.
For professional orthodontic care, contact an office such as Reed Orthodontics.
Share30 September 2015
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