Thursday, April 15, 2010

Is the Cost of Braces Worth It?

Orthodontic treatment is a necessity in many cases. It may be just one of several options if the problem is only a minor alignment one.
When the teeth are overly large or the jaw is overly small, the teeth do not fit the jaw and as a result may grow into the mouth at an odd angle or with too much space between each tooth. For that picture perfect smile or to reduce pain, braces and a retainer may offer a great solution.
In most cases, braces work like magic to solve the problem. However, there are some drawbacks to using braces. First, they are expensive. Second, they require regular cleaning, and third they may give an odd look to the jaw line while in use.
Some of these drawbacks have been overcome in the past few years. Ceramic braces have replaced many of the metallic braces. These ceramic or clear braces are hardly visible at all. This can serve to give the person wearing braces more confidence, even when wearing the braces. You should be aware that there are cases where the only solution is metallic braces, however, in most cases, clear braces can offer a solution to the problem.
So, just how much do braces cost? That depends upon the type of braces upon which you decide. Traditional, metallic braces are still the least expensive. Newer technology costs more. The clear or ceramic braces cost more, but are better in many cases, than metallic ones. Remember that the total cost of braces includes the monthly maintenance fee, as the bands have to be tightened on a regular basis. Some patients may need to see the orthodontist more than once per month.
Plan to spend five to six thousand dollars for the least expensive metallic braces. Add another five hundred dollars for ceramic or invisible braces. If you find that even the looks of ceramic braces are not acceptable, then you can choose behind the teeth braces, that are even less visible. However, you should be prepared to spend as much as two thousand dollars more for these invisible braces.
For most people the ceramic braces are the best compromise. They are virtually invisible and less expensive. You should know that ceramic braces are not useful in all situations. They are more brittle than metallic braces, and in cases where the required movement of the teeth is large, they cannot offer the needed tension.
If you pay for dental insurance be sure to check to see if it covers braces. If it does not cover the needed braces there are other options. Many orthodontists offer a payment plan where patients pay about 1/3 of the overall cost of braces upfront and then make payments while the braces are being applied.
Other options for low cost braces may include a local dental college where students apply braces under the supervision of a trained orthodontist. A dental society may offer a reduction in prices for some children.
Your child's beautiful smile will be worth the investment.
If you're looking into getting braces put in the obvious concern of how much do braces cost is a legitimate one. There are a number of variables that have to do with the cost of braces, which you will find at the aforementioned website.

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