Thinking about braces? They can correct misaligned teeth, improve oral health, and enhance your smile. Knowing when to consider braces, their benefits, the process, and affordability options can help you make an informed decision about this important dental treatment.
When to Consider Braces
Braces are a common orthodontic treatment used to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. They can be used to treat a variety of issues, including overcrowding, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Braces work by applying gentle pressure to the teeth over time, gradually moving them into the desired position. The decision of whether or not to get braces is a personal one, but there are certain factors that may indicate that braces are the right choice for an individual.1 These factors include:
- Severe misalignment: If an individual has severely misaligned teeth or jaws, braces may be the best option to correct the problem. Severe misalignment can cause a variety of problems, including difficulty eating, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene.
- Functional problems: Braces can also be used to correct functional problems, such as difficulty biting or chewing. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including misaligned teeth or jaws, or missing teeth.
- Aesthetic concerns: Braces can also be used to improve the appearance of a smile. Misaligned teeth or jaws can make a person feel self-conscious about their smile, and braces can help to correct these problems and boost self-confidence.
Braces: Benefits & What to Expect
Braces offer a number of benefits, including:
- Improved oral health: Braces can help to improve oral health by correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. This can make it easier to brush and floss, and can help to prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Improved function: Braces can also improve function by correcting problems with biting and chewing. This can make it easier to eat and speak, and can also help to reduce pain and discomfort.
- Improved appearance: Braces can also improve the appearance of a smile. Misaligned teeth or jaws can make a person feel self-conscious about their smile, and braces can help to correct these problems and boost self-confidence.
The process of getting braces typically involves several steps. First, an orthodontist will assess the individual’s teeth and jaws to determine if braces are the right treatment option. If braces are recommended, the orthodontist will take impressions of the teeth and create a treatment plan. The braces will then be placed on the teeth, and the individual will need to visit the orthodontist regularly for adjustments. The length of time that an individual will need to wear braces will vary depending on the severity of the misalignment.2
Tips to Make Braces Affordable
Braces can be a significant investment, but there are a number of ways to make them more affordable.3 These tips include:
- Shop around: It is important to shop around and compare prices from different orthodontists before choosing one. The cost of braces can vary significantly from one orthodontist to another.
- Consider insurance: Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of braces. It is important to check with your insurance company to see what coverage is available.
- Look for discounts: Some orthodontists offer discounts for multiple family members, or for patients who pay in full. It is important to ask about any discounts that may be available.
- Consider a payment plan: Many orthodontists offer payment plans that allow patients to spread the cost of braces over time. This can make braces more affordable for many families.
Learn More About Braces
If you are considering braces, it is important to talk to an orthodontist to learn more about the treatment and to see if it is right for you. An orthodontist can provide you with more information about the benefits of braces, the process of getting braces, and the cost of braces. They can also answer any questions that you may have about braces.