3 Discreet Orthodontic Options For Teens

Dentist Blog

If your dentist has recommended braces for your teen's teeth, you may be concerned about the way they may affect your child's self-esteem. Braces that are made of metal are usually quite noticeable when placed on the front surface of the teeth. As a teen, your child may already be overly concerned about his or her appearance. In order to straighten your child's teeth without causing a drastic change to his or her appearance, you need an orthodontic option that is less noticeable than traditional braces. Here are a few options that may allow your child's teeth to be properly aligned without altering the look of his or her smile.

Invisalign

Invisalign is an orthodontic option that does not use any metal to straighten the teeth. Invisalign is a series of plastic aligners. Each set of aligning trays is worn for about two weeks before being exchanged for the next set of aligners in the treatment plan. 

Invisalign aligners are also unique because they can be removed by your child when he or she needs to clean his or her teeth or eat. However, the aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours in order to align the teeth quickly and properly.

When compared to traditional braces, Invisalign is a bit more expensive. This lining option cost approximately $4,000 to $7,400. Traditional braces, however, are usually priced between $3,000 and $7,000.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are made of metal just as traditional braces are. However, their placement makes them much less noticeable. Lingual braces are applied to the surface of the teeth that is next to the tongue. Since the braces are not worn on the outer surface of your child's teeth, they do not largely impact your teen's appearance. Lingual braces may be priced between $8,000 and $10,000.

Clear braces

Clear braces have ceramic brackets. Since the ceramic is more difficult to discern from your child's tooth enamel, it does not stand out as noticeably as metal. To save money, you may be able to have clear braces applied only to the teeth that are visible when your child smiles or speaks. In such a case, metal braces would be applied to the remaining teeth. Expect to spend between $4,000 and $8,000 for clear braces.

If you would like to find an orthodontic option for your child that is much more discreet than traditional metal braces, consult an orthodontist in your area like Cazes Family Dentistry LLC. He or she will be able to determine the alignment options that will be feasible for your child.

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