Clear braces are a popular choice for children, teens, and adults who need or want to straighten their teeth in a less noticeable way. Traditional metal braces are still the most common orthodontic treatment, but clear braces are becoming more prevalent. If you’re considering clear braces for yourself or your child, you may be wondering how much they cost. Here’s what to expect when it comes to the average cost of clear braces treatment.
Cost of Clear Braces by Type
There are two types of teeth straightening systems that are referred to as clear braces. The cost of each treatment ranges:
- Clear Ceramic Brackets: $4,000-$8,500. Clear brackets work just like metal brackets but they are made of a clear or tooth colored ceramic that blends in with the teeth in order to be less noticeable. The brackets are still connected by a visible metal archwire that shifts the teeth into proper alignment, but the overall look is more subtle.
- Invisalign: $3,000-$7,500. Invisalign consists of clear plastic trays that fit over the teeth to gradually shift them into alignment. The clear plastic is virtually invisible to anyone who doesn’t know you’re wearing aligners.
When compared to metal braces, which range from $3,000-$7,000, the cost of clear braces is comparable, but tends to be slightly higher.
How They Work
If you’re comparing the cost of teeth straightening treatments, it can help to know the difference in how they work. Clear brackets attach to the front side of each tooth with orthodontic cement. The brackets are connected by an archwire that is used to shift the teeth into alignment. Rubber bands, springs, and other equipment is used to align the teeth and bite.
Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic trays that fit over the teeth. Each set of aligners shifts the teeth slightly. You wear them for about 2 weeks at a time before switching to the next set in order. As you move through the entire set of aligners, your teeth gradually move into the desired position. Invisalign can straighten teeth and align your bite.
Does Insurance Cover Clear Braces?
When it comes to coverage for orthodontic treatment, most dental insurance plans provide a one time lump sum for each person or dependent covered under the plan. This lump sum is not usually enough to cover the entire cost of treatment, but it can be applied to the total with the rest being paid out of pocket. Most insurance plans allow you to apply the lump sum to traditional metal braces, clear brackets, or Invisalign.
Are Clear Braces Worth the Cost?
On average, clear braces tend to cost more than traditional metal braces. Why pay more for clear? For many people it’s the fact that they want their braces to be less noticeable. One thing to consider is that clear brackets are not as sturdy as metal brackets and are prone to breaking more often. If this happens your bracket can easily be replaced, but you may find that you’re making more frequent trips to the orthodontist’s office. It may help to follow the “what not to eat” list very carefully. It is also necessary to keep clear braces very clean, otherwise they tend to get discolored.
Am I a Good Candidate for Clear Braces?
Anyone who is a candidate for metal braces is also a candidate for clear brackets. However, Invisalign is different. Invisalign can treat most common orthodontic issues, such as overbite and crowding, but there are some patients who will need braces to make the corrections they need. Complex cases where the teeth need significant movement may not be eligible for Invisalign. The only way to know for sure is to have an evaluation by an orthodontist.
Greater Hartford Orthodontics Provides Clear Braces
If you’re interested in clear braces, Greater Hartford Orthodontics provides both clear brackets and Invisalign. After a brief evaluation we can make a recommendation for the best orthodontic treatment for your case. We understand that your appearance is important to you, and orthodontic treatment can take years. We will do our best to help you straighten your teeth in the most discreet way possible.
Call 860-667-8277 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment.