Clear aligners are an inconspicuous, removable alternative to traditional metal braces. When you get these custom-made, clear plastic aligners, you'll receive several months' worth in advance, and you'll change them out at regular intervals (usually about every two weeks) to help shift your teeth into proper position. The entire series of aligners could take up to nine months or longer, depending on the amount of alignment needed. If you're hesitant to wear traditional wire-and-bracket orthodontic hardware but still want to straighten your teeth, clear aligners could be the right solution for you.
The American Dental Association discourages getting clear aligners directly from manufacturers in what's being called Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Orthodontics. Moving teeth is a medical procedure that should be done with the supervision of a licensed professional.
Before we get into a comparison between clear aligners and traditional braces, let's align on the most significant shared benefit between the two – straighter teeth. When your teeth are straight, you'll likely feel a lot better about your smile, and your mouth will be healthier, too.
When your teeth are aligned, they tend to harbor fewer bacteria because they're easier for you to clean. Better oral hygiene will decrease your risk of tooth decay, periodontal disease, and your gums may support your teeth better when they aren't overlapping, too. You could also have a decreased risk of chipping, breaking, or wearing away your teeth when they fit together correctly. Clear aligners and braces could even relieve abnormal stress put on your jaw from misaligned teeth.
There are numerous benefits to wearing clear aligners for you to consider, like:
Clear aligners tend to cost a bit more than traditional braces, but there's no way to provide exact numbers without knowing the specific needs of your teeth. The best thing to do is speak with your dentist or orthodontist to get a reasonable estimate of the price.
For a ballpark figure, you can expect clear aligners to range anywhere between $3,500 and $8,000 compared to traditional braces, which can range from $2,500 to $6,000. The clear aligner price will depend on the amount of re-alignment your teeth require and how many aligners you need throughout the treatment. The cost also varies on a case-by-case basis for traditional braces, depending on your individual needs and the treatment length.
Most dental insurance plans cover clear aligners just as they would cover regular braces, but check with your insurance company and ask them about the extent of their coverage.
It's always a good idea to consult your orthodontist before deciding what treatment option is right for you. They know your specific needs and will be able to provide the best recommendations for care. They will be able to give you a better estimate of the price. And in the end, if your decision comes down to cost, the only person who can make that decision is you. If finances are a big concern for you, but you would prefer to have clear aligners over braces, you can ask your dentist about payment options. Many providers offer flexible monthly payment plans to spread the cost out over an extended time. And regardless of the treatment option you choose, we hope it makes you smile.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
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