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Types Of Braces & How Much They Cost

by Sacks Orthodontics

Braces are one of the most effective methods used to straighten out teeth. However, you may not know that there are actually four main types of braces: metallic or traditional braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign. We will cover what they are, what each type offers, their drawbacks, and how much you could expect each type to cost. Please consult with your dentist and orthodontist beforehand to determine which is best for you or your children. Prices will vary depending on location and orthodontist.

Metal or Traditional Braces

Metal or traditional braces are the most common type of braces. These are tried and true braces that work by having metal brackets linked together with a thin wire, which slowly forces teeth to move into the correct position. That wire can be a traditional archwire. With advancing technology, many dentists offer heat-activated archwires, which use the heat in the mouth to work more effectively with less discomfort. Due to the wires and brackets because they will become stuck on the brackets and potentially throw the braces off of the teeth.

Traditional braces are the most noticeable, but they come in different colors for those who want them to be less noticeable and are great for kids who want to show off and pick fun colors to display. Best of all, these are the most inexpensive braces, which typically cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are very similar to the traditional metallic braces, but with one key difference: they are made of ceramic rather than metal. Because of this, they blend in much better than traditional braces do and are nowhere near as noticeable as their metallic counterparts. They also work just as effectively and are just as fast. However, the different material does bring its own challenges. Ceramic braces can stain if they aren’t cared for properly. With that in mind, ceramic braces do run a little more expensive than metallic braces, averaging roughly $4,000 to $8,000.

Lingual Braces

Like ceramic braces, lingual braces are also very similar to traditional metallic ones, with one key difference that sets them apart: they are placed on the inside of the teeth rather than outside. Of course, this makes them completely hidden, giving those who do not want others knowing they wear braces the option they would desire. However, being placed on the inside of the teeth means a different set of rules to follow compared to the relatively simple traditional braces.

Being inside teeth, lingual braces are more difficult to clean and are not nearly as effective as traditional braces. The placement can also be uncomfortable for many patients as the tongue does direct contact with the braces. Lingual braces are also not an option for more severe cases of tooth misalignment. These types of braces typically run anywhere from $8,000 to $10,000.

Invisalign

Last but not least, the very popular Invisalign. Most people have heard of Invisalign, either through friends or the very prominent advertisements, but most do not know much about it. Invisalign, compared to traditional braces, is a much newer type of brace. It consists of 18 to 30 (total number varies per patient) custom plastic “trays” that fit over teeth and are replaced every two weeks. There is almost no discomfort when using Invisalign, and they are almost invisible, meaning no unsightly wires and brackets.

Patients with Invisalign can eat and drink anything they want without the limitations of traditional metallic braces. Unfortunately, there are limitations to this as well. Invisalign is often used after patients use braces to correct most of their teeth issues and do not work for serious dental issues. It is also only available for teenagers and adults, and treatment with Invisalign can take longer than with traditional braces. Invisalign typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000.

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