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When you think of orthodontic treatment, you probably think of tweens and teens with a mouth full of metal. But braces aren’t just for kids — and as an adult, you may have more options than the traditional metal braces you’re used to.
Many adults who didn’t have braces as a child (and even some who did) are turning to invisible braces to straighten their teeth. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) reports that the number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment is higher than ever, accounting for one-third of all patients. Invisible braces cost less and are more convenient than ever before, so there’s no reason to put off treatment any longer.
The orthodontists at Penn Dental Family Practice offer both traditional metal braces and invisible braces and will help you decide which is the best option to achieve your goals for a healthy style. And while the cost is important, there are other factors to consider as well.
What do Invisible Braces Offer?
While invisible braces costs will undoubtedly factor into your orthodontic treatment decision-making process, they shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. Opting for this type of treatment offers a level of comfort and convenience that you can’t put a price tag on.
Consider the following advantages of invisible braces:
Appearance
Traditional metal braces have eye-catching brackets and wires, but wouldn’t you rather have others notice your smile rather than the hardware that’s improving it? Invisible braces don’t draw attention to your orthodontic treatment in progress, and instead only change your appearance in the best possible way.
Healthier Smile
Whether you have overcrowding, uneven tooth spacing, crooked teeth, or another issue, it’s important to realize that all misalignment problems can (and likely will) eventually contribute to serious dental issues like tooth decay and periodontal disease. Straightening your teeth eliminates the source of the problem, leaving you with a healthier smile and better oral health.
Comfort
The metal brackets and wires of traditional braces aren’t always very comfortable. Invisible braces, in contrast, have a clear, smooth surface that doesn’t scrape or poke at your gums or the inside of your mouth. And unlike traditional braces, you can remove invisible aligners for brief periods to eat or drink.
Treatment Time
Traditional metal braces need to be worn 24/7 for up to three years or longer. Treatment with invisible braces may take less time — many patients see results in about a year — and they can be removed for up to two hours every day.
Easier Cleaning
Metal braces mean spending more time on your daily oral hygiene routine. It’s easy for food to get lodged in the brackets, which need to be cleaned out to avoid stains or tooth decay.
Not to mention, certain foods — like nuts and popcorn — are forbidden when you have metal braces. With invisible aligners, daily brushing, flossing, and aligner cleaning are simple. And if you want to enjoy some popcorn during a movie? Just pop out the aligner for a bit!
So, How Much Do Invisible Braces Cost?
Even when you consider all the benefits that choosing invisible braces to straighten your teeth offers, you’re probably still wondering: How much do they cost?
The average cost for invisible braces is anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000. Factors including the type and brand of braces you choose, whether you need additional orthodontic treatment (like tooth extractions), the length of your treatment, and your insurance coverage all influence the final cost.
The only way to know for sure how much invisible braces cost is to make an appointment for a consultation with an orthodontist. The doctor will be able to determine whether the treatment is right for you, develop a treatment plan, and provide an estimate of how much you’ll pay for a straighter, healthier smile.
In the meantime, you can also download our complimentary eBook, “The Ultimate Alternative to Braces: Are Invisible Braces Worth the Time, Cost & Pain?” to learn more about how invisible braces compare to traditional braces, and the pros and cons of treatment.
