If you’re self-conscious about your smile, you are not alone.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, around 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. have considered getting orthodontic treatment for misaligned and crooked teeth. However, some can be expensive, ranging from $3,000 to $7,000.
If you’re looking for ways to straighten your teeth without breaking the bank, read on to learn about what options are available to you.
Different Teeth Straightening Options
There are a variety of teeth straightening options available to patients these days. Before, metal braces were the only teeth correction method to achieve straight teeth. But now, clear braces, teeth aligners, and other options exist.
It’s important to consult with an orthodontist to see which teeth straightening option is right for you. They will be able to discuss the pros and cons of each teeth straightening option with you to help you make an informed decision.
Below are five popular teeth straightening options:
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common type of braces. They are made of high-grade stainless steel and are bonded with dental cement to the teeth. They work by using tiny rubber bands, or brackets, to gradually move teeth into alignment.
While traditional metal braces may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option, they are still an effective way to straighten teeth. And thanks to technological advances, traditional braces are now more comfortable and easier to wear than ever before.
Clear Aligners
Clear braces, or clear aligners, are made of a durable, clear plastic material and are less noticeable than metal braces. At-home and in-office options are available. They work the same way as traditional metal braces, using brackets and rubber bands to gradually move teeth into the desired alignment.
Invisalign®
Invisalign is the most popular brand of clear aligners that offers virtually invisible teeth straightening. It uses a series of clear, custom-made aligner trays that slowly and gently shift teeth into place over time. Invisalign is an excellent choice for adults who want to correct their smile without wearing traditional braces.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but they are bonded to the backside of the teeth, so they are entirely hidden from view when you smile or talk. Just like traditional metal braces, lingual braces use rubber bands and brackets to slowly move and align the teeth.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. They blend in with your teeth, making them less noticeable than metal braces. They work the same way as traditional metal braces, using brackets and rubber bands to slowly move teeth into the desired alignment over time.
Your orthodontist can help you decide which teeth straightening solution is right for you based on your specific needs and goals.
How to Straighten Teeth Without Breaking the Bank
A beautiful smile is worth its weight in gold, but some treatment methods can be costly—and that’s before factoring in the cost of monthly adjustments!
If you’re thinking about teeth straightening but are worried about the cost, there are a few things you can do to save money. Here are some ways how to do it.
Look Around
Look around and compare the cost of treatment at different offices. Many dentists offer a free initial consultation. You can schedule appointments and meet with various dentists to find the one you think could help you achieve your dental goals.
Once you have found a dentist that you think is right for you, you can ask about rates or payment plans available. By doing a little bit of research, it is possible to find an affordable option for teeth straightening.
Ask for Special Discounts
You can also compare different teeth straightening options and look for special discounts. Some orthodontists offer discounts for customers who pay upfront or agree to a longer treatment plan.
You may also be able to find coupons or promotional codes online. Also, don’t be afraid to negotiate with your orthodontist. Many orthodontists are willing to work with patients on payment plans or offer referral discounts.
By being proactive, you can find ways to afford teeth straightening that work for you.
Visit a Dental School
If you’re looking for teeth straightening on a budget, one option is to visit a dental school.
Dental students often offer lower rates for teeth straightening services to gain experience. And since experienced dentists supervise them, you can be confident that you’ll get good results.
Another advantage of choosing a dental school is that you’ll have a chance to see different teeth straightening options in action and select the one that’s right for you. So if you’re looking for affordable teeth straightening, check out your local dental school.
Dental Insurance Coverage
Dental insurance coverage can help cover the cost of teeth straightening, and there are a few different teeth straightening options that are available.
For example, traditional braces are usually covered by dental insurance. Invisalign is another available option, and some dental insurance plans cover Invisalign.
There are also other teeth straightening options that are available, like ClearCorrect. You can talk to your dentist about which teeth straightening option is right for you and your budget.
Most importantly, don’t forget to check with your dental insurance plan to see what coverage they offer for teeth straightening.
The Bottomline
There’s no need to break the bank to get a straighter smile—there are ways to make the various teeth straightening options affordable for you. Low-cost dental care is available if you only know where to look.
Invisalign, clear braces, aligners, and even traditional braces can all be affordable; it depends on what you’re looking for in a treatment plan. Talk to your orthodontist about the best option for you and your budget!
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