At Hillsdale Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to have quality orthodontic care available to them and their families. Orthodontic care is important because it helps ensure the proper function of your teeth and also makes healthy smiles.
A good bite makes it easier for you to bite, chew and speak. Teeth that are misaligned are harder to clean and can cause abnormal wearing of tooth enamel which can lead to extensive and expensive dental procedures.
Additionally, orthodontic treatment with clear braces in Portland has proved to effectively increase self-esteem and self-confidence, which positively impacts the patient’s social skills and overall quality of life.
Orthodontic Treatment
The purpose of orthodontics is to treat dental malocclusions by using braces, aligners, or corrective surgical procedures to straighten teeth and correct jaw alignment.
Whether you choose to undergo orthodontic treatment with ceramic or Invisalign braces, they will create a better appearance for your smile. Still, even more importantly, braces will improve the quality of your periodontal, jaw, and oral health.
Straighter teeth reduce tooth decay, the leading cause of periodontal disease. There are many different types of braces you can choose for your treatment.
What Are the Different Types of Braces Available?
There are many different types of braces you can choose from. However, your trusted Portland orthodontist will be your best ally when the time comes to choose the type that works best for your specific dental needs.
Let’s take a look at some options below, including prices and pros and cons for each.
Metal or Traditional Braces
This type is the most common and is what usually comes to mind when you hear the word braces. Traditional braces use stainless steel in the manufacture of metal brackets and wires that give us the anesthetic metal-mouth look. However, modern brackets are smaller and less noticeable than the notorious braces from the past.
- Pros: Least expensive option
- Cons: Most noticeable type of braces
- Cost: $3,000 to $7,500
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are also known as clear braces in Portland. These braces are the same size and shape as traditional metal braces, except that they have tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in with your teeth. Think of ceramic braces as the more modern version of traditional braces.
- Pros: Less noticeable than metal braces
- Cons: More expensive than metal braces; because of their light color and sensitive material brackets can stain easily.
- Cost: $2,000 to $8,500
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are the same as traditional metal braces but with a twist. The brackets and wires go on the inside part of your teeth. This application method makes them virtually invisible from the outside.
- Pros: Invisible from the outside
- Cons: Difficult to clean, usually more expensive, and can be more uncomfortable at first
- Cost: $5,000 to $13,000
Invisalign
Invisalign clear aligners, sometimes also referred to as Invisalign braces, are a system of custom-made, clear, and removable plastic aligning trays. Usually, you will have to replace your trays every 2 weeks or as instructed by your orthodontist.
- Pros: Virtually invisible. Because they are removable, there are no diet restrictions; you can eat and drink whatever you want.
- Cons: Can be easily lost and costly to replace, and may not be suitable for children.
- Cost: $3,000 to $7,000
What Is the Price of Braces in Portland?
When considering whether or not to begin orthodontic treatment, the cost of braces is the main factor to look into. It’s important to remember that there are many factors that can determine the final cost of treatment.
Because every patient’s smile needs are different, your orthodontist will be the best person to give you a personalized estimated cost. However, the prices of braces vary. Factors that can influence the price include:
- Where you live
- Age
- Type of braces you choose
- Length of treatment time
- The severity of your dental issue(s)
How Do I Care For My Braces in Portland?
With or without braces, maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is essential to your overall health. You should brush and floss at least twice a day, and if possible, even after snacks.
Although this might seem excessive, it’s essential to keep in mind that if any food particles are caught and left between the brackets of your traditional, ceramic, or lingual braces, they can cause inflammation and infection if left untreated.
If you decide to undergo your treatment using Invisalign clear aligning trays, it will be easier to maintain proper oral health since Invisalign is removable, you will be able to brush at least twice a day, and it is likely you can stick to flossing just once a day. All of this without having to worry about following any type of diet restrictions.
Now that you know the ins and outs of orthodontic treatment with braces in Portland, you are ready to take the first step to work towards a confident, perfect, new, and healthy smile. So, what is the first step?
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Leemin today.
