Braces are devices that help align and straighten your teeth. While some dentists apply some kinds of braces, only an orthodontist has the specialist experience to work with all types of braces.
With so many different orthodontic tools out there to help you achieve a straight and healthy smile, we thought we’d take a look at braces, why you might need them and the different types available.
Why You Might Need Braces
There are two reasons you may need braces. One is cosmetic and the other is functional.
The most common reason people get braces, adults particularly, is cosmetic. We all want to achieve the perfect smile. So, even if you don’t have serious orthodontic issues, you may just want a straighter smile and a boost to your confidence.
On the other hand, many people need braces for functional reasons. You may need braces if you have an underbite, overbite, or even a misaligned bite. It is these types of problems that can make chewing difficult, and you may even experience difficulties breathing and speaking.
People who suffer from clicking jaws sometimes need braces, too.
So Many Different Types of Braces!
These days, there are plenty of different types of braces available. Let’s take a look at the most common orthodontics.
Self-Ligating Braces
These braces are made from the same metal materials as traditional braces. Where traditional braces require the use of elastics, self-ligating braces don’t. What that means for you is fewer dental appointments and a lot less friction on your teeth.
Self-ligating braces actually come with either ceramic, clear or traditional metal brackets. While they’re the same size as traditional types of braces, they require a specialised clip instead of elastics. This clip helps the archwire guide your teeth into a straighter position. The clip also reduces how much pressure is placed on your teeth.
Traditional Braces
These are the most common type of braces. While you may have visions of mouth train tracks and ghastly headpieces, today’s types of braces are more comfortable than ever. Traditional metal braces are made using stainless steel and work to realign your teeth with the help of arch wires and customised metal brackets.
Today, you can even choose coloured elastics for a more colourful smile!
Clear Braces
These braces are made using clear materials, which means they’re less noticeable. Ceramic braces are often popular amongst teenagers and adult patients who don’t want people to notice their orthodontic treatment.
While ceramic braces are less obvious, they require a little more attention to oral hygiene. That’s because these types of braces tend to be bigger and more brittle compared to metal braces. It’s for this reason that ceramic braces are commonly used on the upper front teeth more than the lower teeth.
Inside Braces
Lingual braces are completely invisible! These braces are placed behind your teeth and are completely customised to match the shape of your teeth.
Because lingual braces are hidden behind your teeth, they’re an excellent option for musicians, athletes, actors, models and professional adults.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Clear aligners involve a series of removable, clear acrylic trays. The braces are similar to other types of braces in that they work to straighten your teeth.
The biggest benefit of Invisalign is that you can remove the trays to eat, drink and brush your teeth. Best of all, the trays are comfortable!
Types of Braces and Cost
Having braces placed on your teeth may be a lengthy process. It can take from as little as 3 months to a couple of years to achieve a completely straight smile. Types of braces and cost is a big part of deciding on a teeth straightening treatment.
What’s more, different types of braces cost different amounts. Here’s an idea of what braces cost in the Gold Coast based on the need for braces on both the top and bottom teeth. It’s important to note though, that costs vary depending on your unique circumstances.
- Clear traditional braces – $5,000 up to $10,000
- Lingual braces – $7,500 up to $12,500
- Clear Invisalign treatment – $4,500 up to $10,000
What the Cost of Braces Includes
Besides different costs for different types of braces, it’s worth remembering that the overall cost includes certain elements, such as:
Initial Consultations
Children should visit an orthodontist around the age of 7 or 8 years old. While this may seem young, it’s really a pre-screening to tell whether or not a child’s teeth are coming in properly. During the consultation, we examine your child’s teeth, jaw and mouth (the same goes for teenagers and adults). We may even take x-rays to see the position of your teeth. Sometimes, we take a mould of the teeth to determine what types of braces, if any, are needed.
Initial orthodontic consultations often address bite problems and overcrowding. If your teeth overcrowd, we may need to remove one or more teeth to make space for the rest of your teeth to move into a straighter position.
A second diagnostic consultation may cost upward of $300 depending on what’s needed.
Installing the Braces
The next stage involves installing the braces. This usually takes between one and two hours. At the start of the appointment, your teeth are cleaned and, depending on the types of braces, glue, brackets and wires are attached. The process is not painful, but it may take a little time to adjust to your braces.
The cost of the visit depends on the types of braces you choose for yourself or your child. There is a misconception that Invisalign clear aligners are more expensive than traditional braces. Here at Medland Orthodontics, there is no cost difference between Invisalign clear aligners and traditional braces. This is because Medland Orthodontics is a Diamond Invisalign provider and are able to pass on savings direct to you.
Follow Up Visits and Check-Ups
Once you get your braces, you’ll need to visit every few weeks or so. We’ll check that the braces are in place and tighten or adjust the wires as needed to help your teeth move into position.
Depending on the type of braces, this process continues for up to two years. Once you achieve your straight smile, the braces are removed, and you’ll need to wear a retainer. These costs can differ, but you can expect to pay around $200 to $300.
Financing Your Orthodontic Treatment
With different types of braces and orthodontic treatments available, achieving a straighter smile has never been easier.
We offer flexible and convenient finance options to help you with your orthodontic treatment.
Find out more today by contacting the team at Medland Orthodontics.
