Originally published July 2020. Updated July 2021.
If you’ve been thinking about braces for yourself or someone in your family, you’re not alone – approximately 4 million people in the US and Canada are undergoing an orthodontic treatment and 25% of those are adults 18 and over.
And we’ll bet that you likely have a lot of questions, like how to know if you need them, how they work, how long you’ll have them, or even how much you’ll expect to pay out-of-pocket.
Well, settle in because we’re answering all those and more, below.
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How do I know if I need braces?
There are many reasons you might be considering braces. For some people, the choice is purely cosmetic. For others, braces can help prevent any future bite and crowding issues that may occur as the face and jaw bones continue to grow. Braces may even help correct speech impediments, TMJ, or sleep apnea.
Your dentist will take all of this into consideration as well as looking at the state of your teeth and gums and any future issues that might occur. A few things they might look for include:
- Teeth that are visibly crooked or crowded
- Difficulty flossing or brushing
- Bite problems that prevent your teeth from closing over each other properly when your mouth is closed or at rest
- Clicking or popping noises in your jaw when your chew
- Stress, soreness, or fatigue in your jaw after chewing
- Breathing issues caused by improper tooth or jaw position
- Tooth spacing or gaps between your teeth
- Trouble speaking due to improper tooth position or jaw alignment
Remember, if you’re at all concerned about your smile, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They’re the best source to help you determine if braces are right for you.
What types of braces are available?
Your orthodontist will work with you to identify the best option for your teeth. However, here are the 3 most common types of braces:
- Traditional Metal Braces — Made of brackets and heat-activated wire that moves teeth more quickly and less painfully than in the past. Traditional braces tend to be the least expensive but also the most noticeable type of braces.
- Ceramic Braces — Made up of clear or enamel-colored brackets, these are the same size and shape as metal braces but are transparent and more discreet. However, they tend to be more expensive and can stain if not properly cared for.
- Lingual Braces — Made of metal brackets and wire just like traditional braces, but these are placed on the back of the teeth, making them less visible. These also tend to be more expensive and difficult to clean. If your teeth are severely misaligned, lingual braces may not be for you – always remember to consult with your dentist.
How do braces work?
Braces work by applying continuous pressure to teeth over a period of time, encouraging the ligaments and bones around them to move in a specific direction. This is a process known as “remodeling.” As your teeth move, the jaw gradually reshapes as well.
How long do braces take?
The initial application of braces will usually take a couple of hours. Your orthodontist will bond brackets to each of your teeth, attach the arch wires, and wrap a small rubber band around each bracket to help direct pressure on the teeth in a specific direction to make them straighter.
From there, and depending upon your specific care plan, you will likely visit your orthodontist once a month for adjustments and checkups. During this time, they will check that the braces are exerting the right amount of pressure needed to move your teeth without any unnecessary pain. They may also cut or replace wires to prevent irritation or injury or add rubber bands if they determine your teeth aren’t moving as quickly as expected.
But just how long you will need to wear braces varies from person to person. It depends on the severity of the misalignment you are addressing, your gum health, the health of your teeth, and many other factors.
On average, patients wear braces for one to three years. Once they’re removed, most patients will need to wear a retainer full-time for the first six months, and then after that, only while they sleep.
How much do braces cost?
In Western Washington, the average out-of-pocket cost for braces ranges from $6,180-$7,660 for a child and from $6,094-$7,230 for an adult. *
Does my dental plan cover braces?
Because each treatment plan is different and every person’s care plan is unique, coverage for braces can be tricky. The easiest way to find out what your plan covers and how much, is to log in to your MySmile® account.
Or, if you’re covered through one of our Individual & Family Plans, you can check your coverage by logging in to your Delta Dental Covers Me account.
Curious about braces but need a dentist? Use our Find A Dentist tool to locate an in-network provider that’s right for you!
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*Based on the Delta Dental Plans Association estimate for out-of-network treatment for the 98029-zip code. Actual costs may vary based on coverage, area of residence, provider, plan restrictions and limitations. For more information regarding treatment costs and coverage, review your benefit booklet or log in to MySmile®.
