{"id":19975,"date":"2022-11-14T14:58:02","date_gmt":"2022-11-14T19:58:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/?p=19975"},"modified":"2023-03-06T15:32:01","modified_gmt":"2023-03-06T20:32:01","slug":"how-much-do-braces-cost","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/guides\/how-much-do-braces-cost\/","title":{"rendered":"Clear Aligners vs. Braces: Costs and More"},"content":{"rendered":"

While you may associate braces with kids and teens, the number of <\/span>adults getting braces<\/span><\/a> has been on the rise. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists says 1 in 4 patients receiving orthodontic treatment <\/span>is an adult<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While many seek out braces for cosmetic reasons, some do so for functional issues. As dental technology advances, so do choices for orthodontic treatment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The best method of treatment depends on the <\/span>type of orthodontic problem<\/span><\/a> in question. Let\u2019s <\/span>break down what to know about clear aligners, like Invisalign, and metal and ceramic braces.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Treatment options<\/h2>\n

Braces<\/h3>\n

You remember these from your teenage years, most likely. <\/span>Braces<\/span><\/a> align the teeth and jaw by using the pressure of an adjustable wire running through brackets and bands attached to the teeth. Elastic ties fix the wire to the brackets. Braces <\/span>can be made<\/span><\/a> from a ceramic material or metal brackets, which are fixed on your teeth for a period of time. <\/span>Dr. <\/span><\/a>Monte Collins, an orthodontist in Southlake, Texas, says that braces are still a popular choice, though clear aligners are an increasingly sought-after treatment option.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Pros<\/em>: <\/b>Braces are typically better at treating more serious dental issues than clear aligners. \u201c<\/span>Kids and teens with jaw growth problems sometimes need expanders or other orthopedic devices that attach directly to the teeth,\u201d which are a better match with braces than aligners, says Collins.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Cons: <\/b><\/em>Braces are obviously visible, and can make brushing and flossing properly a challenge. Food restrictions like popcorn, chewing gum and hard candy can also be a bummer for some patients.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clear aligners<\/h3>\n

These plastic molds are customized for patients\u2019 mouths. Your medical provider might take a scan of your mouth or create a clay mold model of your teeth to start. A series of aligners, switched out every few weeks, move the teeth in small increments until the desired position is reached.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ideal results with aligners require advanced knowledge of biomechanical differences between aligners and traditional braces, which is why getting expert advice from your orthodontist is essential.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pros:<\/b><\/em> Some patients prefer aligners for their appearance, ease of brushing and flossing, and lack of dietary restrictions. \u201cInvisible aligners are seen as desirable for adult patients because they are less noticeable,\u201d Collins says.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Cons: <\/b><\/em>When it comes to clear aligners, discipline is essential. Some folks, especially kids, may struggle with that. \u201cThe key to success with aligner treatment is cooperation,\u201d Collins says. \u201cIdeally, they should be worn most hours of the day.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Treatment time<\/h3>\n

On average, it takes roughly 18 to 24 months to complete an orthodontic treatment. The length of a patient\u2019s treatment <\/span>can vary significantly<\/span><\/a>, depending on factors like the complexity of a patient\u2019s <\/span>malocclusion<\/span><\/a> (teeth that don\u2019t properly fit together) and how diligent the patient is about following their orthodontist\u2019s instructions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Braces and clear aligners generally have a comparable treatment duration. \u201cTeeth move in response to pressures placed on them regardless of the appliance used, so treatment times are similar,\u201d Collins says.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Cost<\/h3>\n

The cost for both braces and clear aligners <\/span>can greatly differ<\/span><\/a> from office to office. \u201cAligner companies charge a lab fee to produce the aligners that is greater than the cost of the braces and wires,\u201d says Collins, \u201cso like most technological advances, it is usually more expensive.\u201d <\/span>Full treatment fees for adult braces <\/span>typically range<\/span><\/a> from $4,000 to $7,500, while clear aligners can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $9,000.<\/span><\/p>\n

Check your dental plan to see if it offers any coverage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Who to see<\/h3>\n

Both clear aligners and braces are administered by an orthodontist \u2014 a dentist who <\/span>receives additional training<\/span><\/a> to diagnose and treat teeth and jaw irregularities.<\/span><\/p>\n

You may consider a number of factors when weighing which orthodontic treatment is right for you. Meet with an orthodontist you trust to ask questions before deciding on a custom treatment plan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is best to have an honest conversation with your orthodontist concerning the pros and cons for each particular situation,\u201d Collins says. \u201cYou want to use the best approach for a beautiful smile.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Need a dentist? Find one<\/a> on Zocdoc.<\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Whether you’re an adult considering braces, or are trying to find the perfect pair for your child, we’ve got you covered. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":86,"featured_media":19976,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[227],"tags":[97,106,83],"class_list":["post-19975","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides","tag-dental-care","tag-treatment","tag-wellness","reviewer-dr-nassim-assefi"],"yoast_head":"\nClear Aligners vs. Braces: Costs and More - Guides<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Looking to straighten your teeth? Read our guide on the pros and cons of clear aligners vs braces. 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