Health

How Much Do Teeth Straightening Treatments Cost?

Published

1 year ago

April 5, 2023

When it comes to teeth straightening options, one of the most important aspects to consider is the cost. Despite all doing the same thing, straightening methods can vary greatly in price based on convenience and treatment difficulty. Here’s everything you need to know about how to straighten your teeth – especially when working on a budget.

Clear aligners

Aligners are one of the most adaptable teeth straightening options. Combining the straightening power of traditional braces with the needs of most, aligners can be undetectable, removable, and a gentler treatment option. After completing dental impressions, your doctor will create a series of aligner trays from a thin plastic that helps to slowly move the teeth. Aligners are best reserved for mild to moderate straightening needs, as they may not be able to address more complex cases.

How much do aligners cost?

Aligners are relatively affordable, though the price can vary greatly depending on the orthodontist used or the home kit. In general, pricing for aligners can range between $1,000 and $8,000 for the entire treatment process. This price usually includes adjustments, materials, and orthodontist appointments as needed.

Metal braces

Metal braces, also sometimes referred to as traditional braces, are a common treatment approach to straightening teeth. The method works by attaching metal brackets to the front of the teeth and looping a metal wire between the brackets to guide the teeth. The orthodontist will tighten the wire or replace it according to the needs of the individual.

How much do metal braces cost?

Metal braces can range anywhere between $3,000 to $7,000 – sometimes more. These costs are determined by the length of treatment needed and any complexities involved, such as bite misalignments and other factors.

Lingual braces

Similar to metal braces, lingual braces use metal to guide the teeth, but the braces are instead fixed behind the teeth. This means they’re not visible to outsiders, though you’ll certainly feel them with your tongue.

How much do lingual braces cost?

Lingual braces are one of the more expensive and potentially unattainable straightening options for many. All of the benefits, especially cosmetic-wise, come with a higher price tag than traditional braces. On average, the cost of lingual braces can begin at $8,000 to $10,000 and can go up from there!

Ceramic braces

Another commonly used teeth straightener is ceramic braces. Ceramic braces are essentially the same as metal braces, except they use ceramic brackets. This helps to make the braces less obvious and allows for straightening teeth without metal throughout the mouth. For those that don’t want to wear aligners but still want a less obvious option, ceramic braces may be a good option.

How much do ceramic braces cost?

Because ceramic braces are a touch more convenient for the patient, they can come at a higher price. Thankfully, it’s not a dramatic difference but one that is substantial enough to make you think twice before signing up. Generally, ceramic braces cost range between $4,000 and $8,000. That minimum is nearly a thousand more than the starting costs of traditional braces.

Health

9 Simple Steps to Dealing with a Broken Tooth

Published

2 months ago

February 14, 2024

Michelle Langton

Credit: freepik via Freepik

It’s movie night, and you have an obligatory bowlful of popcorn balancing on your lap. You toss a handful of popcorn and — crack — you unknowingly bite down on a kernel with the full power of your jaw.

Lightning strikes your mouth as you realize this humble kernel broke your tooth.

Now what?

Besides pausing the movie and spitting out your mouthful of popcorn and tooth, you might not know your next steps.

What should you do, and how can you pay for it? Find the answers to these questions and more below:

1. Save the Pieces

If possible, save any broken pieces of the tooth. Your dentist might need these pieces.

2. Rinse Your Mouth

Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Avoid using hot or cold water, as it might aggravate any exposed nerves.

3. Control Bleeding

If you bleed, apply gentle pressure to the area with a clean cloth or gauze. You can also use a cold compress on your jaw or cheek to reduce swelling.

4. Contact Your Dentist

Reach out to your dentist immediately. Explain the situation and try to schedule an emergency appointment. Many dentists reserve slots for urgent cases. If they don’t have a spot available, look at specialty emergency clinics in your area.

5. Get Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Broken and chipped teeth can hurt, so take some over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage this pain until you can see your dentist.

6. Check Insurance Coverage

Review your dental insurance policy to understand coverage details. Some policies may cover emergency procedures, while others may have limitations.

7. Discuss Payment Options

If cost is a concern, discuss financing options with your dentist. Some dental offices offer flexible arrangements that give you a break. If you qualify for these plans, you might be able to push out your due date to coincide with your payday. You may even be able to break up your total outstanding amount over several payments.

8. Take out a Personal Loan

If you’re just shy of what you need to cover your emergency dental expense, consider going online to scope out personal loans. A personal loan may fill in for savings in urgent situations. You can quickly visit a website like MoneyKey to see what you need to apply. If approved, a personal loan gives you the means to pay for your visit upfront and pay off what you owe over time.

9. Consider Urgent Care Clinics

If your financial situation is such that you can’t afford a personal loan’s payments, reconsider your choice of dentist. Some dental practices apply a sliding scale to their services so that they can provide immediate care at a lower cost for at-risk individuals.

Next Steps: Thinking About the Future

So, you’ve managed to repair your tooth and pay the bill, too. What’s next? Make sure you hit these three goals soon. They can help you prevent another broken tooth in the future!

Stay on Top of Dental Hygiene: Brush at least twice a day and floss once a day — these simple habits can protect your teeth over time.
Schedule Regular Checkups: Keeping up with regular cleanings can also help you prevent future dental emergencies.
Build an Emergency Fund: Sometimes, accidents happen. Consider building an emergency fund specifically for unexpected dental emergencies.