Invisible Braces: A Clear Way to Straighten Your Smile
Invisible Braces: A Clear Way to Straighten Your Smile
Braces are devices that are used to correct misaligned or crooked teeth. They can improve the appearance, function, and health of your smile. However, many people are reluctant to wear braces because they are visible, uncomfortable, or inconvenient. Fortunately, there is a solution for those who want to straighten their teeth without compromising their aesthetics or lifestyle: invisible braces. Invisible braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable, and custom-made aligners that fit over your teeth and gradually move them into the desired position2. This article will explain what invisible braces are, how they are installed, how much they cost, how long they take to work, and what insurance options are available for them in North America.
What are invisible braces?
Invisible braces are also known as clear aligners or Invisalign, which is the most popular brand of invisible braces. They are made of a transparent plastic material that is virtually invisible when worn. They are designed to fit snugly over your teeth and apply gentle pressure to shift them into alignment2.
Invisible braces have many advantages over traditional metal braces, such as:
- They are discreet and do not affect your appearance or speech
- They are comfortable and do not irritate your gums or cheeks
- They are removable and do not interfere with your eating or brushing
- They are convenient and do not require frequent visits to the dentist
- They are effective and can treat a variety of orthodontic issues
How are invisible braces installed?
The process of getting invisible braces involves several steps and may take several weeks to start. The first step is a consultation with a dentist or orthodontist who is certified to provide invisible braces. The dentist will evaluate your oral health, dental history, and smile goals. The dentist will also take X-rays, photos, and impressions of your teeth to create a digital 3D model of your mouth3.
The second step is the treatment plan, which is based on the 3D model of your mouth. The dentist will use a computer software to map out the movements of your teeth from their current position to their final position. The dentist will also show you a simulation of how your smile will look after the treatment. The dentist will then send your treatment plan to a laboratory where your custom-made aligners will be fabricated3.
The third step is the delivery of your aligners, which usually takes a few weeks after your treatment plan is approved. The dentist will give you a set of aligners that you will wear for about two weeks each. You will need to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, only taking them out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. You will also need to visit the dentist every six to eight weeks for check-ups and adjustments3.
How much do invisible braces cost?
The cost of invisible braces can vary depending on several factors, such as:
- The severity and complexity of your orthodontic issue
- The number of aligners needed
- The duration of the treatment
- The location and experience of the dentist
- The insurance coverage and financing options available
According to Invisalign.com, a website that provides information on Invisalign treatment in different countries, the average cost of invisible braces in North America ranges from 3,000 to 8,000. This means that straightening your teeth with invisible braces can cost anywhere from 1,500 to 4,000 per arch.
However, these prices are only estimates and may not include other expenses such as consultation fees, X-rays, photos, impressions,