Metal braces were first introduced over 100 years ago, and they’ve been getting more and more advanced ever since. Today, you can get metal braces as an alternative to ceramic ones if you want something that’s more esthetically pleasing than other orthodontic options like Invisalign or clear aligners. Because of the material, they’re made from, metal braces are generally easier to clean and maintain than other orthodontic devices, which means your teeth will be less prone to cavities during treatment and your mouth will stay fresher smelling throughout the day.
Pros and Cons
There are many pros and cons to metal braces, depending on your needs. You should know what each of these is before deciding if they will work for you. For example, traditional metal braces need to be adjusted every six weeks but they look more attractive than ceramic braces. If you have tight pockets or have trouble scheduling checkups, you might prefer ceramic braces because they only need to be checked every 12 weeks. That way, if your treatment requires multiple adjustments a year, it’s cheaper than having them all at once. However, ceramic braces are heavier than traditional metal ones and can make sensitive teeth hurt or become sore after a while. Which one is right for you?
Step 1: Consultation with Doctor
Before even considering braces, you should schedule a consultation with your orthodontist to see if you’re an ideal candidate. If your teeth are crowded or misaligned enough that they rub against each other when you bite down, then orthodontic treatment is worth considering. However, there are alternatives to traditional metal braces; these range from clear aligners to Invisalign or a combination of both. With these alternative treatments, there’s no need for metal brackets and wires that protrude from your teeth—they can be replaced with thin plastic trays and clear retainers instead. While conventional braces take between 12-18 months to complete, some types of non-metal braces may only require 3-6 months. Talk to your doctor about which type is best for you.
Step 2: Choose The Type Of Brace
Orthodontists have a number of options when it comes to braces. The most common choice is either clear or metal brackets and wires. Each has its own pros and cons so check with your orthodontist to determine which is best for you. Clear brackets are made from a thin, plastic-like material that blends in with your teeth; they’re less noticeable than traditional metal braces but aren’t as strong. If you grind your teeth (brushing too hard, clenching), clear brackets may not stand up to it like metal will. Also, if your enamel is thin or chipped, clear brackets won’t be a good fit for you since there’s more of a chance for them to chip or come off.
Step 3: The Procedure
It’s no secret that orthodontics isn’t a cheap endeavor. Achieving straight teeth and a smile you love is worth every penny, but when it comes to deciding between traditional metal braces and clear aligners, cost can be a deciding factor for many patients. If you are looking for cost savings with your orthodontic treatment, ask yourself how long you expect to need braces. The longer your desired treatment plan will last, the more money you’ll likely save with aligners over traditional metal braces. For example, if you think getting straight teeth will take 12 months or less, traditional metal braces could end up costing as much as five times more than clear aligners.
Step 4: First Month, Adjustment Period
It’s going to take a little getting used to, but don’t let your new braces intimidate you. In fact, you may even enjoy having straighter teeth. First thing in the morning, put your finger in between each tooth and thumb up on either side of your upper jaw. This should give you a feel for how much tension there is. Then gently move each tooth back and forth with your fingers. It will take less than 5 minutes to do all 20 upper teeth and 10 minutes for all 20 lower teeth—at least for most people with average flexibility (or less). Some people need more time, so don’t worry if it takes longer at first!
How Long Will It Take Before My Smile Is Perfect?
If you don’t have any missing teeth or gaps, and are just looking to move your teeth into a straighter position, then metal braces may be for you. Traditionally, metal braces have been used when metal wire is needed to adjust your bite. With today’s technology, there are now clear braces that can accomplish these same things without visible wires; however, certain conditions may call for metal braces if they provide additional benefits like stability and bite correction. Your orthodontist will tell you whether they think that invisible or traditional metal aligners would be best for your smile—and give you an idea of how long treatment would take. Plus, they can help determine which payment plan might work best with your budget (and life).
Costs and Insurance Coverage
Metal braces can cost anywhere from $5000 to $7000, with average costs coming in at around $4500. Many insurance plans do cover some portion of your orthodontic work, but you should check with your provider before assuming it’s covered. In some cases, The best way to find out if you are eligible for insurance coverage is to call your provider directly. It’s also important to note that many providers offer interest-free payment plans for patients who need them.
