Braces vs Clear Aligners Cost![]() What Do I Need to Know About Clear Aligners and Conventional Braces?Most people are familiar with conventional metal braces. They consist of a series of brackets adhered to the enamel of your teeth. Wires run from these brackets and can be tightened to help adjust your teeth. While many people believe that braces are mostly for crooked teeth with uneven spaces and gaps, conventional braces treat a wide variety of orthodontic concerns such as crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and malocclusion. However, conventional braces start around $3,000 and can range as high as $7,000 or more; the average price falls right around $5,500. Metal braces are fixed to the teeth, meaning that you cannot take them out at home. You will need to wear them 24/7 for up to two years until the desired results are obtained. Issues that can arise during treatment with conventional braces include abrasions and scratches on your cheeks and lips, discomfort when adjustments occur, and difficulty keeping them clean. You will need appointments every month for adjustments. Depending on the severity of your orthodontic concerns, your price may vary. For people who are looking for a straighter, more even smile, they may prefer Clear Aligner trays for their dental work. Clear Aligners consists of two trays that are made out of a transparent material, giving a more discreet appearance to the wearer. Many professional adults prefer Clear Aligners, as they are more subtle compared to metal braces. Unlike conventional braces, Clear Aligners only needs to be worn for 22 hours per day. They can be removed for up to two hours a day for brushing your teeth or eating. Some people find Clear Aligners to be more comfortable than conventional braces, as they do not cause nicks or abrasions in the mouth. Patients may have difficulty speaking clearly after initial fitting with their Clear Aligners trays, though, as they adjust to wearing them. Treatment with Clear Aligners can be quicker than conventional braces, from anywhere between a year to 18 months. You will need an appointment every two weeks for adjustments. The price for Clear Aligners also starts around $3,000 and can range as high as $5,000 or more. Depending on the type of dental insurance that you have, your out-of-pocket cost for orthodontic treatment with conventional braces or Clear Aligners may vary. Some insurances may pay more for one type of braces instead of the other, but your own final cost depends largely on your insurance plan. To learn more about conventional braces and Clear Aligners, or to schedule an appointment at our office, please give us here at Dr. Tim Dumore & Team a call today at 204-832-3910! |