What is Teeth Alignment?
Teeth alignment, also known as occlusion, is the straightening and repositioning of teeth to improve their appearance and function. The goal is to have teeth without crowding or spacing.
Teeth alignment can help improve:
- Improved oral hygiene- Straight teeth are easy to clean, as they don’t overlap each other, or there are no gaps or spaces between two teeth. Overlapping or spacing of teeth can lead to food lodgment, resulting in the formation of calculus, plaque buildup, and bad breath.
- Aesthetic smile and improved speech- A lot of people who have crooked teeth or an uneven bite feel less attractive or less confident – particularly if it affects their speech and smile and they may end up avoiding social gatherings. People with malaligned teeth may feel self–conscious when smiling and interacting with others. Straightening of teeth gives you a good smile and appearance, improving in confidence.
- Decreased need for future dental procedures- Addressing bite and alignment issues early can help reduce the need for more complex dental treatments later in life.
Teeth Alignment Process/Methods:
Teeth alignment treatments in the United States can include braces, aligners, and surgery:
- Braces– Traditional braces straighten teeth using a combination of brackets and wires fixed to your teeth. Your orthodontist may add elastic bands for additional force for movement of the teeth and correct your bite and alignment. Braces can be made of metal, ceramic, and Damon, and can be less visible with clear or tooth-colored brackets. Treatment time can range from 18 months to 2 years. Types of braces are mentioned below:
- Metal braces – Metal braces are usually the ones people think of, and until now, they have had the lowest price and have been the most used. That’s only because they were the first braces invented. Over time, metal braces have become smaller than they once were and they take up less space on the tooth surface, making treatment comfortable for patients. But even though they are smaller in size, they are pretty visible.
- Clear braces – Clear braces are usually made of ceramic or tooth-colored material, making the braces much more aesthetically pleasing. These are usually used for adult patients who are uncomfortable with the metal braces or are conscious about their appearance. Regardless, it’s important to note that this type of brace usually works with a metal wire, so the treatment isn’t completely invisible. Ceramic braces are expensive when compared to the metal braces.
- Self–litigating braces – Self – Self-litigating braces appear same as the metal braces but differ because of their revolutionary system that doesn’t require elastic bands to be tied to each bracket. When compared to metal braces, even self–ligating braces are expensive.
- Lingual braces – Lingual braces are the same as metal brackets, except that they are placed on the back side of the teeth, making them completely invisible. However, getting the brackets placed on the back side of teeth increases the price of treatment because of the increased technical work.
Clear aligners
A short–term treatment that involves wearing custom–made, clear, mouthguard–like braces that gradually move your teeth into place. You can remove them while eating and brushing your teeth. Opting for clear aligners reduces your dental visits.
Surgery
Some people need surgery to correct jaw discrepancies.
Teeth Treatment cost in the USA
The cost of teeth alignment treatments can vary depending on the type of treatment, your location, and the orthodontist. The average braces price is $6,000, and many people don’t have that kind of money just sitting around. Is the average price for braces holding you back? Dental insurance, financing, and clear aligners can help reduce how much adult braces cost. Are you looking for an affordable way to fix your bite and enhance your smile? Read on to learn about the cost of treatment and how you can enjoy an orthodontic treatment that fits your budget.
Treatment without Insurance
The factor that can end up having the greatest effect on the cost of braces for your teeth is whether or not you’re insured. The prices of any dental treatment in the USA change drastically for those who have access to insurance. Let’s have a look at how braces cost without insurance:
- Metal braces price – Approximately $4000 to $ 8000
- Clear braces price – Approximately $5000 to $9000
- Self – ligating price – Approximately $5000 to $9000
- Lingual braces price – Approximately $9000 to $14000
Teeth Treatment with Insurance
Most insurance providers at least partially cover the cost of dental braces and some insurance companies would cover most of it. However, it is important to note that some of the insurance companies might not cover any cost of the orthodontic treatment. All the dental treatments in the USA. So, to estimate how much it would cost to get dental braces with your current insurance, you should first check your orthodontic coverage within your insurance policy.
Teeth Treatment Centres in the USA
Various dental clinics provide dental treatments, including orthodontic treatment, general dentistry procedures, etc.
- Red Dirt Orthodontics- At Red Dirt Orthodontics, they approach orthodontics differently. Dr. Kolton Erickson says their goal is to ensure that every patient leaves the office loving the treatment they are providing and loving their smiles. This office is conveniently located in Yukon & Oklahoma City, OK.
- House of Orthodontia – Manhattan – House of Orthodontia – Manhattan is the leading orthodontist in Manhattan, NY, and the surrounding area. They offer Invisalign and Braces treatment, resulting in the most radiant and beautiful smiles.
- Valley Orthodontics – For over twenty years they have been providing patients with treatments, and helping them build happy and healthy smiles. They offer complimentary consultations for braces, and Invisalign and would cooperate with you in customizing your treatment plan.
- Central Park Orthodontics – Central Park Orthodontics is owned by Dr. Pilakas, and is a 5–star rated New York, NY, Orthodontist. He has transformed numerous smiles with metal braces, clear braces, lingual braces, Invisalign, and more. Although Dr. Pilakas is a New York, NY, based orthodontist, he also provides services in the surrounding cities including Upper West Side (UWS), New York City, Manhattan, Upper East Side (UES), Midtown West, Harlem, Morningside Heights, Chelsea, Columbus Circle and Washington Heights, NY.
The average cost of braces with Insurance
| Type of braces | Before insurance | After insurance |
| Metal braces | $3,000 to $7,500 | $1,500 to $3,750 |
| Ceramic braces | $2,000 to $8,500 | $1,000 to $4,750 |
| Invisalign braces | $3,000 to $7,000 | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| Lingual braces | $5,000 to $13,000 | $3,500 to $9,250 |
Average cost of clear aligners by state/region
| U.S. state/region | Average cost |
| Alabama | $4,751 |
| Alaska | $4,878 |
| Arizona | $4,796 |
| Arkansas | $5,250 |
| California | $5,399 |
| Colorado | $5,870 |
| Connecticut | $5,019 |
| Delaware | $5,447 |
| Washington, D.C. | $5,337 |
| Florida | $5,577 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligners
What is the average cost of clear aligners in the USA?
The average price for clear aligners in the USA is about $5,000. However, the cost can change based on things like the type of aligner, how long treatment lasts, and which orthodontist or dental clinic you choose.
Are clear aligners more expensive than traditional braces?
Sometimes clear aligners can cost more than traditional braces, but many people find the added comfort and less visible look worth the price.
Can insurance help pay for clear aligners?
In some cases, insurance may cover part of the cost of clear aligners. Be sure to check with your insurance company to see if orthodontic treatments like this are included in your plan.
Are there any extra costs with clear aligners?
Yes, there may be extra costs like X-rays, retainers, and adjustments. It’s a good idea to ask your orthodontist or clinic about all the possible fees so you know the full cost before starting treatment.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost depends on how complex your treatment is.
Is Invisalign covered by most dental insurance?
Yes, it is, but the amount covered can vary depending on your plan.
Are braces cheaper than Invisalign?
In most cases, the cost of Invisalign is about the same as traditional braces.
Are metal braces the only option for adults with complex dental issues?
No, clear aligners and lingual braces are other options if you don’t want metal braces.
Is there an alternative to Invisalign?
Yes, there are other aligner options besides Invisalign, and some may even offer better choices depending on your needs.
What is the average cost of braces?
Braces and Invisalign tend to cost about the same these days. The price usually depends on how complex your case is and how long treatment will take.
What’s the difference between an orthodontist and an Invisalign provider?
An Invisalign provider can be any dental professional (orthodontist or general dentist) trained to use the Invisalign system.
What’s the difference between Candid Co (Smile Direct Club aligners) and Invisalign aligners?
Candid Co and Smile Direct Club offer remote treatment with less in-person care. Invisalign is typically provided by an orthodontist or dentist with more personal supervision.
Why do orthodontists charge more for Invisalign?
Orthodontists often charge more because their expertise ensures that all your dental issues, like teeth and bite alignment, are properly addressed. This process takes time.
How do orthodontists decide the price for Invisalign?
The cost depends on how complicated your case is, your insurance, and where you live (costs may be higher in urban areas than rural ones).
How do people afford Invisalign?
Many orthodontic offices offer no-interest payment plans to make Invisalign more affordable.
How much does Invisalign cost without insurance?
The price ranges from $4,000 to $10,000, but insurance may cover part of the treatment.
