No More Natural Teeth: Deciding Between Implants and Dentures

3 Discreet Alternatives To Conventional Metal Braces

by Jeremiah Barnett

Having misaligned teeth is not unusual. Still, there are many orthodontic options that can be use to correct dental misalignment. Nevertheless, some adults may not embrace traditional orthodontic treatments that display metal whenever the patient smiles, speaks or laughs.

If you would like to have your dental misalignment straightened in a discreet manner, there are orthodontic alternatives available. Here are a few of them:

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are fabricated from metal. However, they are not readily displayed as you speak or smile. The brackets of lingual braces are applied to the side of the teeth that is next to your tongue. With the brackets in this position, they are hidden from view.

In addition to the discrete positioning of lingual braces, the orthodontic appliances offer additional benefits for people who play contact sports in which they may receive a blow to the mouth. They are also suggested for people who play wind instruments. The braces do not prevent the natural movement of the lips, so the mouth can be pursed to blow an instrument without obstruction. Also, since the metal brackets do not lie directly beneath the interior lips, the lips do not get snagged on the hardware of the braces.

Lingual braces usually cost between $8,000 and $10,000.

Invisalign

Invisalign is an orthodontic solution that can be used as an alternative to braces. The system, which uses transparent aligning trays, may be prescribed for teens and adults whose teeth and palate are already fully grown.

Each set of aligning trays in a treatment plan is worn for a couple of weeks before being replaced with the next set of trays to progressively straighten the teeth.

One unique benefit of Invisalign is the ability of the patient to remove the aligning trays to eat or clean the teeth. Still, these trays cannot be left out of the mouth for prolonged periods, or the alignment process can be delayed.

Invisalign usually costs between $4,000 and $7,400.

Clear Braces

Clear braces are traditional braces that use ceramic brackets instead of metal ones. Since the brackets are made of tooth-colored ceramic, they are not as noticeable on the teeth.

Clear braces are usually priced between $4,000 and $8,000.

If your teeth are not as straight as you would like them to be, contact an orthodontist in your area to schedule an appointment. He or she can review the state of your teeth and determine the most discreet options for your alignment correction.

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