With new developments in orthodontics and braces, the traditional “metal mouth” braces are no longer the only alternative available for people who want a perfect smile. If you are one of the many who can benefit from orthodontics and braces, below are the different types you can choose from alongside the approximate cost of each:
Invisible Braces
Invisible and removable braces offer a different approach to conventional metal braces. Invisible braces make use of clear plastic aligners that are fitted over the teeth and will guide the teeth into their correct position over time.
While the primary term for this teeth straightening method is “clear aligners,” it is also commonly referred to as “removable” or “invisible” braces. Average treatment using clear aligners will take around 12 to 18 months.
Invisible braces are completely removable. However, they still need to be worn 20 to 22 hours each day. Approximate price can range from $2,000 to $8, 000.
Lingual Braces
Yet another good alternative for those who want their teeth straightened inconspicuously is lingual braces. While not really invisible, lingual braces are still hardly noticeable as the fittings are situated behind the teeth and are facing inwards.
Also known as “incognito” or “hidden” braces, the brackets that are fixed on the teeth’s inner surface can be standard fittings or they can also be molded to each tooth’s individual shape. Understandably, the latter is a more expensive option.
While wearing lingual braces is hard to detect, cleaning them can be a challenge and checkups and adjustments can take longer. Approximate price can range from $5, 000 to $13, 000.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces use ceramic braces that are made from materials that are clear or has the same texture and colour as the teeth. This makes ceramic braces less obvious compared to their metal counterparts. In addition, the wire used to connect the brackets can be tooth-coloured as well.
For many, ceramic braces offer a good balance of appearance, speed, and cost. Ceramic braces are not only less distracting up close, they are also barely noticeable from a distance. Approximate price can range from $3, 000 to $10, 000.
Self-Ligating Braces
When it comes to outward appearance, self-ligating braces also use the bracket and wire system just like conventional braces. However, with self-ligating braces, no metal ties or elastic bands are used to keep the straightening archwire in place.
And since there are no rubber bands used, self-ligating braces are considered a more hygienic option. In addition, this type of braces is also deemed more efficient at moving teeth while requiring fewer checkups and adjustments. Approximate price can range from $2, 500 to $8, 000.
Traditional Metal Braces
With the current dental breakthroughs, even the plain metal braces have come a long way. In other words, they are now a far cry from ones used a few decades prior. Nowadays, metal braces are smaller, lighter, and less noticeable.
With traditional braces, high-grade stainless steel brackets are attached to each individual tooth. A flexible metal wire is threaded through each one. Metal tires or small rubber bands are also used to secure the wire.
Teeth are manoeuvred into the desired position by tightening the wire in different places. In some cases, larger rubber bands may be used to connect different teeth and pull them in the desired direction. Approximate price can range from $2, 500 to $7, 500.
