DentistryAre Aligners Worth the Cost?

There are more options for teeth straightening than ever before. However, all of these decisions can make it difficult to decide which is the best for any given case. One increasingly popular option for those looking to straighten teeth without the look of traditional braces is aligners. Clear aligners offer a host of benefits but usually come with an increased cost for treatment. When considering their options, many often wonder if the cost of clear aligners is worth it. And the answer might surprise you – read on to find out.

What are aligners?

Clear aligners are an alternative to traditional braces. Instead of metal brackets and wires fixed to the teeth, clear aligners are a removable tray. When put on, the clear aligners fit snuggly against the teeth, helping to gently guide them into their new place over time. The primary advantage of using aligners is that they can fit any lifestyle without being visible.

How much do aligners cost?

Aligners can vary in cost depending on several factors. Simpler treatment plans with the shortest timeline can expect a dramatically less expensive quote compared to a person with complicated dental needs, poor oral health, and beyond.

Generally, however, the price of clear aligners falls between $1,000 to $7,000 or $8,000. Not only can the treatment plan alter the price, but so can the provider. If you’re opting for an at-home aligner treatment plan, the price may fall at the lower end, closer to $1,000. If going through a qualified orthodontist who will perform regular adjustments, a retainer, and more, many can expect to pay $3,000 or more.

Benefits of aligners

Here are some benefits aligners offer:

Quick treatment time

Treatment times for aligners are quick. So long as a person wears their aligners for the full amount of time prescribed (at least 20 hours a day), the treatment time may be halved! So, while traditional braces can be on for years, the aligner treatment may be prescribed and finished within one year.

Removable

Clear aligners are removable, so you can take them out whenever you need to eat or brush your teeth. This can help prevent any staining or damage to the aligners and your teeth. This also means you can eat all the popcorn and candy you want during treatment, unlike with braces.

Nearly invisible

Aligners are nearly invisible, meaning they are not nearly as obvious as traditional braces. This means that most people will not be able to tell you’re wearing them throughout your treatment.

Cons of aligners

Aligners can also come with some drawbacks, including:

Can be pricier

The cost for aligners isn’t always more than traditional braces, but generally, it is. The starting cost for aligners – when working outside of home-straightening companies – can sometimes begin a thousand or so above what a basic traditional braces treatment plan would cost.

Not a great fit for complex cases

Traditional braces are popular for a reason. They work on nearly every dental case, no matter how severe. Aligners, on the other hand, aren’t best suited for complicated treatment plans. Clear aligners do not have the flexibility to correct severe overcrowding or bite issues, which excludes some patients.

The bottom line

Aligners, given all their benefits, are well worth the cost. Though not applicable for every need, aligners can be a great tool to straighten teeth while maintaining confidence and flexibility in life. Consider your options and consult with your orthodontist to decide whether aligners may best suit your needs.

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