There are health and aesthetic reasons why you may want to straighten your teeth. Your bite might be uncomfortable, or perhaps you cover up your mouth when you smile because your smile doesn't look the way you would like it to look.
Whichever the reason why you'd like to have straighter teeth, we have rounded up three ways to do it.
And huge spoiler alert: they are all eligible for a dental grant ;)
Braces
Conventional Braces are the most common treatment to straighten your teeth. Metal brackets are bonded onto each tooth and attached to a metal wire that applies continued pressure on your teeth to reposition them. The combination of each piece allows your dentist to have easier manipulation of teeth movement. Because of this, a braces treatment may resolve faster than clear aligners.
Braces are a great option for people with simple and complex cases. There are no issues with compliance since your braces don't come off until you complete your treatment.
Generally, braces can cost between $5000 and $7000 depending on the length, the complexity of your case, and your orthodontist.
Clear Aligners
Clear Aligners are more popular among teenagers and adults since they are more discreet. Clear aligners are like clear retainers, which you must exchange every two weeks or as recommended by your dentist. Each new tray shifts your teeth just enough to reposition them into your desired smile during the term of your treatment.
Clear Aligners are very convenient as they are barely visible, and you can easily remove them to eat and brush your teeth. However, the success of your treatment will rely on how often you wear your aligners. Dentists recommend wearing your aligners 20-22 hours a day for best results.
The most popular brand is Invisalign, but other brands available are Clear Correct, Damon Clear, and more.
The cost of clear aligners ranges from $4000 to $7000, depending on your treatment. The average cost for a full treatment is $5,500.
Veneers
Although Veneers are generally used to fix broken or chipped teeth, they can also help you achieve a straighter smile if you have a mild case. Veneers are custom-made shells of porcelain that cover your teeth. Your dentist prepares your tooth by removing a thin layer of enamel from the surface to insert the veneers over your original tooth.
This is an ideal option for people who only have a few misaligned teeth rather than complex cases. This treatment is more enticing if you are looking for faster treatment as it usually takes two visits to the dentist to complete your treatment.
The cost of a single veneer ranges from $350 to $500 for composite veneers and $1200 to $2000 for porcelain veneers.
Choosing the right treatment for you is important so you can be happy with the results.
Regardless of your treatment preference, a Dental Grant will cover 25% to 30% of your treatment plan for braces, clear aligners, or veneers.