Everything about Metal Braces
What are Metal Braces?
Metal braces are a type of orthodontic appliance that are worn to correct teeth alignment. They are made of metal and plastic, and work by applying pressure to the teeth to move them into the correct position.
Braces are primarily used to correct problems with how teeth come together, known as a malocclusion. Although braces can be used for cosmetic reasons, they are mainly prescribed to help people who have difficulty chewing or teeth that are crowded or overlapping.
How much do Metal Braces cost?
Metal braces can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $8,000, depending on the severity of the patient’s case and the type of braces used.
They are known to be the most effective braces available. The brackets here are made of metal, which is why they are strong enough to hold onto teeth without being too bulky or heavy. They are also sturdy enough to last for years before they have to be replaced. Metal braces have a longer life cycle than traditional plastic ones, so you do not have to go in for replacements too often.
Brackets which are made of metal can be more aesthetically displeasing than their counterparts. That is why they are mostly recommended when the orthodontist is sure that the patient will not want braces in his or her adult life. Sportspeople and people who do not like wearing braces, like, for example, musicians should go for metal braces.
Compared to primers, the cost of metal braces is slightly higher. However, you will get better results with these braces than with others available in the market. You may start off by getting only the arch wire done and then continue depending on your requirements. Here are some of the common metal braces costs listed.
• Initial Consultation Fee: $65-$80. This is for the consultation fee only and does not include any other cost. The orthodontist will examine you and tell you if you require braces or some other corrective measure to be taken on your teeth before he decides on the type of braces that will be most suitable for you.
• Examination Fees: $300-$500. These are the fees that will be charged to look into your present dental condition and find out if there is any problem with it or not. If there is no problem, then the orthodontist will tell you what kind of braces he can provide based on your preferences.
• Initial Treatment Fee: $2000-$8000. This includes the braces, the wiring process and other initial costs. The price may vary depending on where you live, which orthodontist you go to and how much work he has to do on your teeth before putting up your brackets. If there are any special appliances that have to be worn along with your braces, such as headgear or rubber bands, then these will be included in this cost.
• Monthly Braces Fee: $100-$250. This is the cost of wearing braces on a monthly basis and includes the brackets maintenance and replacement. The number of visits to the orthodontist varies from person to person and so does the frequency of replacing brackets. If you are taking good care of your braces, then there is no need to replace them for at least three years.
• Headgear Fee: $500-$1000. This fee includes the headgear purchase and also completing any initial procedures that have to be completed before the headgear is fitted on your teeth.
• Retainers: $500-$600. This is the fee for finishing treatment and includes the upper and lower retainers, tooth polishing and final adjustments to your braces if necessary. If you have metal braces, then you will need retainers at least six months after your teeth are adjusted and brought into their correct positions. Without these retainer, your teeth may drift back into their old positions.
• Crowns and Dentures: $900-$4000. The cost varies depending on the number of crowns that have to be created for you and how many dentures have to be made as well as the addition of new teeth if necessary. This will not only include the retainers that will be needed after your teeth are created, but also the labor cost of creating crowns and dentures.
Metal Braces Vs Ceramic Braces
When it comes to getting braces, one of the biggest decisions you will have to make is what type of braces to get. There are two main types of braces: metal braces and ceramic braces. Here is a comparison of the two types of braces:
Metal Braces:
-Are less expensive than ceramic braces
-Are more durable than ceramic braces
-Can be seen more easily than ceramic braces
Ceramic Braces:
-Are more expensive than metal braces
-Are less durable than metal braces
-Can’t be seen as easily as metal braces
Metal braces are made out of a type of metal alloy, which is a combination of different types of metals. Ceramic braces, on the other hand, are made from a ceramic material to provide a lighter and more aesthetic option for patients who prefer this material.
If you want to know more about metal braces cost, contact us for more information.