Do overlapped, spaced-out, or otherwise misaligned teeth got you down? In most cases, the journey to the straighter smile you desire starts with braces. However, after looking at the price tag, you may be second-guessing if they are worth the investment. Fortunately, both metal brackets and discreet clear aligners can prevent you from spending thousands in the long run. Keep reading to learn exactly how orthodontic treatment saves you money.
#1. Better Oral Hygiene
Misaligned teeth aren’t just an aesthetic concern, they pose a risk to your overall oral health as well. Since the unique crevices they create make it difficult to remove food particles and other debris, you’re significantly more likely to develop cavities, gum disease, and other serious dental problems. Even with dental insurance, treating concerns like these can cost a pretty penny. Fortunately, braces can effectively guide your teeth into their properly aligned positions, increasing the efficiency of your oral hygiene routine.
#2. Less Wear and Tear
If your top and bottom teeth don’t come together evenly, then a bite issue may be the source of the problem. Although this may not seem like cause for concern, uneven distribution of the pressure it takes to bite and chew can lead to wear and tear on certain teeth. Since the enamel cannot regenerate on its own, this requires treatments like veneers or dental crowns. Although both of these solutions will effectively restore the shape and size of your teeth, it’s best to preserve your natural ones whenever possible. Luckily, braces can address bite issues of all kinds, from overbites to crossbites, effectively preventing excessive wear and tear.
#3. Lifelong Results
When considering the cost of braces, it’s important to remember both the upfront and total price. While the upfront amount may be a few thousand dollars, the results have the potential to last a lifetime with the right best practices in place. So, it’s easy to see why the investment is well worth it. Plus, the improvement to your confidence and the domino effect from that shouldn’t be dismissed either.
As a patient, it’s important to do your research and make an informed decision on what is best for your smile and wallet. Fortunately, braces win on both accounts! So, don’t wait to get in touch with your orthodontist.
About the Author
Now a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Jamie Moon first earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at Columbia University School of Dental Medicine. Next, she completed a post-graduate program in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Although she has more than a decade of hands-on experience, she continues to prioritize education through memberships with the American Board of Orthodontics, the American Association of Orthodontists, and many others. If you want to learn more about all the benefits of orthodontic treatment or are interested in scheduling a consultation, don’t hesitate to visit her website or give her a call at 508-909-6719.