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Home | Orthodontic Treatment | Braces

Braces

For decades, braces have remained one of the most popular treatments for improving teeth alignment and correcting bite irregularities among both children and adults. Additionally, the field of orthodontics has seen numerous advances over the years that have produced new types of braces—options that allow for more discreet and comfortable treatment while successfully improving common orthodontic concerns. With the variety of treatment options available from our board-certified orthodontist, Ben Chan, DMD, we can help you or your child achieve straighter teeth and an improved bite.

What Are the Various Types of Braces?

Early phase orthodontics for children and orthodontics for adults and teenagers offer many state-of-the-art treatment options, including various types of braces and appliances to correct misalignment and bite concerns. Here are a few of the most common:

Metal Braces

While traditional metal braces have a reputation for being one of the more prominently noticeable orthodontic treatments, the fact is that they are still an extremely effective way to close gaps, realign teeth that are crowded together, and improve bite issues such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite. This option involves the placement of small metal brackets on the teeth, which are connected by a thin wire. The process allows the teeth to shift into a straighter, more desirable position and can ultimately enhance bite function, as well. Traditional metal braces can be the best selection for patients who suffer from particularly severe orthodontic concerns. Compared to previous kinds of braces, today’s metal braces also offer improvements in comfort and appearance during the treatment process.

Clear or Ceramic Braces

Adults, adolescents, and children who are concerned about the visibility of braces on their teeth may find clear or ceramic braces to be the ideal solution. These options are meticulously designed to be as inconspicuous as possible. The brackets are either transparent or colored in such a way that they can blend in with the look of your natural teeth. Clear or ceramic braces can essentially accomplish the same goals as metal braces, but in a more discreet fashion.

Invisalign®

For individuals who want the least visible orthodontic treatment available, Invisalign® offers a way to achieve that. Rather than relying on brackets and wires to correct orthodontic concerns, Invisalign® is able to gradually move the teeth into better alignment using a series of clear, thin, and flexible plastic aligners. The aligners are not affixed to the teeth, so they are removable for eating and drinking. When they are on the teeth, they are practically invisible, even at a close range. Invisalign® is not often the ideal option for patients who have severe orthodontic irregularities, but it can be quite effective for individuals with mild to moderate concerns. Our practice offers standard Invisalign® for adults and the Invisalign® Teen version of this treatment.

Learn More

During the initial consultation with Dr. Ben, he will perform a comprehensive oral evaluation and talk with you about your needs and goals. He will also be happy to answer any questions you have about the type of orthodontic treatment you wish to consider and help you determine the most ideal selection. Whether the treatment is for yourself or for your child, our orthodontics team firmly believes in providing detailed patient education and a thorough explanation of the treatment process so that you will have a clear idea of what to expect.

How Long Do Braces Take to Straighten Teeth?

The answer to this question is dependent on a variety of factors, including the type of braces or appliances that will be utilized, the severity of the orthodontic concerns, and each patient’s overall goals for treatment. Individuals experiencing mild to moderate orthodontic issues may be able to achieve their goals in less time than those who suffer from more severe teeth or bite alignment irregularities. In general, the average time it takes for braces to straighten the teeth is approximately 12 to 28 months; however, the projected length could be more or less than that depending on individual needs.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

In terms of the general national average cost of braces, the total price typically falls somewhere between $3,500 to $7,500 for children and adolescents, and between $4,800 and $7,135 for adults. Again, these are very general average price ranges; the cost of braces or other types of orthodontic treatment is highly variable among patients due to the customized nature of these procedures, the technique utilized, the projected length of treatment, and other factors. With that in mind, it is important to note that many dental insurance policies offer coverage for orthodontic treatments (including Invisalign®). Also, our practice accepts a variety of convenient payment methods for expenses that are not covered by insurance. Once your orthodontic treatment plan is developed, a member of our team will be happy to go over the estimated cost with you and answer any questions you may have about payment options.

If you would like to learn more about braces and other orthodontic treatment options, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation with our orthodontist, please contact Cumberland Dental Specialists today.