Dental Braces: Types, Treatment Plan, Costs & Care

Dental braces are orthodontic devices that straighten crooked and misaligned teeth with metal brackets and wires. They’re a tried-and-true solution to various alignment issues.

Although it might seem like they’re mainly used for aesthetic reasons, they’re functional too. They can help realign a person’s jaw to improve functions like chewing and speaking.

Whether you’re exploring the idea of braces for the first time or considering a refresher, understanding the types of braces, their process, and what to expect can help you navigate the journey with confidence.

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Dental Braces: Types, Treatment Plan, Costs and Care

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Types of Dental Braces and Their Suitability

Braces are available for people of all ages, although children between 10 and 14 are the most common age group to undergo treatment. Various types of braces are available for different needs.

These include:

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional braces are stainless steel brackets and wires. They’re the most common type of braces, and they’re well-suited for complex or severe cases of misalignment.

Traditional braces typically cost between $2,500 and $6,000. While that might sound like a steep price, they are the most affordable option.

However, they can be uncomfortable and may take time to get used to. They’re also highly visible, and some people find them less aesthetically pleasing compared to other options.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend with your smile. They’re less noticeable than metal braces and look like natural teeth.

Ceramic braces are suitable for moderate to complex cases and cost around $3,000 to $8,000. However, ceramic braces are prone to staining if not cleaned meticulously and can be more fragile than metal braces.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces hold the wire with clips instead of elastic ties, which can reduce friction and may shorten adjustment times. They’re more expensive than traditional metal braces, costing between $3,000 and $8,000.

One benefit of self-ligating braces is that they require fewer in-office visits. They can also be made of metal or ceramic.

However, they’re still somewhat visible. Depending on your condition, they’re not much faster than traditional braces.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are placed on the back of your teeth, making them nearly invisible from the front. They cost about $8,000 to $10,000 because they’re customized for each patient.

While they’re a great option, they can irritate the tongue and may be difficult to clean. They’re also not suitable for every bite issue.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removable, nearly invisible trays that periodically move teeth in small increments. Depending on each individual case, they cost around $3,000 to $8,000.

Because they’re removable, you can eat and brush your teeth easily. There is an adjustment period, but they’re typically comfortable to wear.

However, they’re mostly suitable for mild to moderate misalignments. Additionally, you have to wear them for at least 20 hours a day, including during sleep.

What Affects the Price of Braces?

While different types of braces have different prices, other factors can affect the total cost of treatment. For example, advanced technology, greater comfort, and extensive care can be more expensive.

Other potential additional costs include:

• Consultation cost
• X-rays and impressions
• Retainers
• The clinic’s location
• The length of treatment
• Insurance coverage

Age can also affect the price, as treatment for adults is generally more expensive than treatment for children. Dental insurance is also less likely to cover orthodontic treatment for adults.

Lastly, your overall health can increase the cost because your dentist may need to treat certain oral health issues before giving you braces.

Ways to Pay for Braces

While braces can be quite expensive, they’re often partially covered by insurance. However, insurance is unlikely to provide full coverage, especially for adults.

Some policies don’t even cover orthodontic work. But if your braces are medically necessary, your insurance may cover treatment. 

Fortunately, there are several ways to pay for orthodontic treatment, including:

• HSA/FSA funds — You may be able to use tax-free funds from a health savings account (HSA) or flexible savings account (FSA) to cover the cost of braces.
• Dental schools — You may be able to get braces at a more affordable rate by going to a dental school. Students provide treatment under professional supervision at a lower price than a private practice.
• Discounts — You may qualify for discounts based on income. Check with practices in your area to see if any of them offer an income-based sliding pay scale. 
• In-house financing — Many orthodontic practices allow monthly installments over 1 to 2 years.
• Third-party financing — CareCredit or personal loans can help spread out expenses.

How to Take Care of Braces

Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is one of the best ways to care for braces. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day using a soft-bristled brush. 

To floss under the wires, you can use threaders or interdental brushes. Water flossers are also a popular option for getting rid of trapped food.

You can also use an antimicrobial rinse or mouthwash to reduce plaque around the braces. Finally, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for monitoring, cleaning, and adjustments.

Your dentist can detect dental problems, maintain your oral health, and fix any problems with your braces’ wire or brackets.

What Should You Eat When You Have Braces?

Have a healthy diet to keep your teeth healthy, and eat soft foods to avoid damaging your braces. Some examples of soft foods include yogurt, pasta, mashed potatoes, and soft fruits like bananas.

On the other hand, chewing on tough or sticky items can pop brackets off or bend wires, extending treatment time and creating discomfort. Some examples of foods you should avoid include:

• Popcorn
• Nuts
• Hard candy
• Chewing gum