Misalignment of the teeth is a growing problem worldwide. Furthermore, people are becoming increasingly conscious of how they appear and smile. That has led to an increase in the demand for orthodontic treatment. However, orthodontic patients do not prefer to get traditional fixed braces for their treatment as they are uncomfortable and are quite conspicuous due to their metallic appearance. That is why the trend is shifting towards aesthetically more pleasing treatment options that don’t affect one’s smile or facial aesthetics.
Among these “aesthetic” orthodontic treatment options are the tooth-coloured ceramic braces and the virtually invisible clear aligners. If your dentist or orthodontist has recommended clear braces, you might be wondering how they work and how much they cost. But no need to worry. This blog contains all the information you need to decide whether clear aligners are a suitable option for your treatment. So, read on to learn more about them.
Visit us at our convenient locations in Biggin Hill, New Cross, or Wallington to discover transparent pricing and personalised treatment plans. Schedule your consultation today and achieve your dream smile.
What Are Clear Braces?
Clear braces are a removable orthodontic treatment option that consists of transparent, flexible aligners. These aligners are designed to be worn over the teeth and exert gradual forces to realign them. Since these aligners are made of a transparent polymer, they are virtually invisible and don’t affect one’s smile and personality. So, you can wear them to work, school, or even social gatherings without worrying about them being visible. That is also why clear aligners have become the most sought-after orthodontic treatment worldwide.
How Do Clear Braces Work?
According to the British Orthodontic Society, clear aligners are removable types of braces that are designed to gradually move the teeth in the desired direction. Clear braces comprise plastic aligner sets – one for each jaw. Your dentist will give you a set of numbered aligners, and you will have to wear each for about two weeks and at least 22 hours daily. Once you have finished wearing the first aligner set, you will be asked to switch to the next aligner set. In this way, you will become one step closer to your dream smile after completing the use of each aligner set.
How Expensive Are Clear Braces?
If you search for the cost of clear braces in the UK on the internet, you will come to know that different practices offer different treatment costs. This is because the expenditure on Invisalign treatment depends on various factors, such as the severity of the underlying issue, patient age, the dentist’s skill and location and most importantly, the dentist’s qualification and experience. So, the cost of clear braces in the UK is variable. However, the typical cost of Invisalign treatment varies between £3,000–£4,000. You can ask your dentist to give you an estimate of the costs involved in your Invisalign treatment so that you can manage your finances.
Does The Price Of Braces Include The Orthodontist Visits?
Typically, your dentist will give you an estimate of the costs involved in your treatment, including regular checkup visits. However, this is not a universal practice. Some practices will quote you only the cost of treatment and any materials used during the treatment. However, they will charge you a consultation fee separately every time you visit for a checkup. Therefore, it is a good idea to clarify from your orthodontist whether the treatment costs include checkup appointments or whether you must pay for them separately.
Do Braces Cost More The Longer You Keep Them On?
Yes, the longer you wear braces, the higher will be your treatment costs. How? Because prolonged orthodontic treatment will require you to visit more often, costing you time and money. Besides, if your dentist charges you a consultation fee separately every time you visit, it will definitely add to your treatment costs. Therefore, one should strictly adhere to their dentist’s instructions so that their treatment progresses smoothly and ends timely.
I Cannot Afford Braces. What Can I Do?
Orthodontic treatment can be expensive for many, as they cannot afford to pay for it in one go. If you are also unable to seek orthodontic treatment due to affordability issues, don’t worry; there are ways to pay for your treatment. For example, you should first check with your orthodontist if they accept your insurance plan. If not, you may ask them if they allow you to pay for your treatment in small, affordable monthly instalments. This is one of the easiest ways to pay for your treatment instead of paying the entire amount in advance.
How Do You Get Clear Braces?
The process of getting clear braces is very simple. First, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth to identify the underlying issues and prepare a customised treatment plan for you. Once that’s done, they will make digital impressions of your teeth which are sent to Invisalign laboratories. At the laboratory, Invisalign experts will digitally design a set of numbered clear aligners for you. These aligners will be fabricated using 3D printing and dispatched to the dentist. Voila! Your clear aligners are ready for use.
Invisalign treatment is very convenient, comfortable, and effective. However, to get the most out of your clear braces treatment, one should visit an experienced and renowned dentist in their area. If you reside in South East London and seek orthodontic treatment for yourself or your kids, Waldron Dental Clinic is the best practice in town for all your dental and orthodontic treatment needs. So, what are you waiting for? Request a free virtual consultation with us today to learn more about clear braces or get your questions answered.