There is no single right path to orthodontic treatment or between braces or aligners, but the way to start your journey right is knowing the benefits and cost of teeth aligners, metal braces, and other procedures.
Once you have done your research, the American Association of Orthodontists recommend getting an accurate diagnosis from a well-trained dental professional. Thanks to cutting-edge technological advances, you can now have your diagnosis by visiting your trusted clinic or from the comforts of your home.
Keep in mind that one appliance is not essentially better than another. Your teeth alignment journey will be based on the condition of your oral health, budget, goals, and lifestyle needs.
Now, let us examine the differences between metal braces and teeth aligners in terms of price, benefits, and disadvantages.
Cost of metal braces is usually lower than modern ones
Knowing how many metal braces cost in the Philippines may be at the top of your mind. Depending on the severity of your misaligned teeth, traditional metal braces range from Php 30,000 to Php 90,000.
If you are considering this type of orthodontic treatment, you have to be ready to visit your orthodontist or dentist every four to six weeks. Regular dental visits are important as the metal wires and brackets are needed to be tightened to realign your teeth slowly into place, a report from Medical News Today read.
The length of treatment is usually between 18 and 24 months, depending on how complicated the problem is, according to the National Health Service.
Removability is not an option with metal braces
Linked by a wire, metal braces consist of small brackets fixed to your teeth to properly align teeth by applying pressure. This means you cannot remove traditional braces yourself, as you will have to wear them during your entire treatment and let your dentist remove them after the treatment.
With metal braces, consuming certain food and drinks is not advisable. Sticky, chewy, and hard foods and colored drinks may stain or break brackets and wires.
Daily oral hygiene is also more challenging with metal braces than aligners. You will have to follow your dentist’s requirements when it comes to brushing and flossing with metal braces to avoid tooth decay and plaque.
Variety of colors is abundant with metal braces
Some younger teenagers prefer the aesthetics of metal braces as they can style these with their favorite colored rubber bands. This may be fun for younger teenagers but if you are at a later age, having a mouth full of metal might raise unwanted or awkward attention especially during special occasions.
The good news is that braces have evolved over the years. Teeth aligners are the preferred option for most older teenagers and adult patients looking to straighten their teeth. This is especially true for those who might be a self-conscious about wearing traditional braces.
Cost of teeth aligners comes with great results
Teeth aligners cost usually higher than metal braces, as the former may cost Php 180,000 and above depending on the severity of teeth misalignment. But with a relatively higher price comes great results, better appearance, and efficiency.
Aligners, also known as invisible braces, are made of clear and removable plastic material that allows your teeth to move in tiny increments until the desired outcome is achieved.
Gone are the days when you have to wait for years to achieve your desired smile. The US Food and Drug Administration even said aligners require a shorter treatment period than metal braces, cutting it by an average of 12 months.
Invisibility, removability, and comfort with aligners
