Straighter teeth can do more for you than boost your confidence. Properly aligned teeth can make cleaning easier and benefit your overall health.

Dr. Chew has been helping his patients in Fremont, CA achieve straighter smiles for over 25 years. You’re in good hands at Chew Dental. Here are answers to some common questions about braces. 

How Much Do Braces Cost?

Braces can cost anywhere from $3,000-$10,000

There are many factors when calculating how much braces cost. Every patient is different because no two situations are the same. 

The cost of braces differs by treatment time, the type of braces you get, and whether or not additional work or appliances are needed.

Does Insurance Cover Braces?

In most cases, yes. It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to cover up to 50%!

As a rule of thumb, you should check with your insurance provider so there are no surprises.

Types of Orthodontic Braces

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontics. There are several types of braces for almost anyone to achieve a happy, healthy smile.

Traditional Braces for Children

Getting your child braces as a preteen is a perfect time to begin straightening their teeth. Children have more malleable mouths, often making treatment time quicker than adults.

Since their bones are still developing, it will reduce the chances of improper jaw alignment and structural issues as they grow.

Getting braces as a child or adolescent is often more advantageous than waiting until adulthood.

Traditional Braces for Adults

You’re never too old to achieve your dream smile. As long as it’s determined you’re a good candidate for braces during a thorough exam, you may be able to begin your journey to a straighter smile on your first visit!

While braces tend to work quicker in children, getting braces as an adult still has its benefits.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are very similar to traditional braces in their function and components. However, the brackets are ceramic instead of metal. This makes them less noticeable because ceramic closely matches the color of natural teeth.

The wire will be visible, but the discreteness is surprisingly good.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are a middle-ground between traditional braces and clear aligners like Invisalign®. They are the least visible of all orthodontic braces because they go on the tongue side of your teeth. 

They may cause some tongue discomfort until you get used to them, but you won’t experience any inner cheek pain as a result of their placement. 

How Long Do Braces Take?

In general, braces can take anywhere from one to three or more years. However, there are a few different stages to your treatment plan.

Orthodontics has three main phases – planning, active, and retention. The active phase is when you will be wearing braces.

Planning

Most, if not all, of the planning stage will happen during your first appointment. This is when your treatment plan will be mapped. 

Most likely, not all of your teeth will need to be moved the same distance in the same direction. Because of this, it will be established how much force needs to be applied to each tooth and which direction it needs to go.

Your orthodontist will use impressions, x-rays, and computer programs to create your treatment plan. This plan outlines exactly when, and how, each tooth needs to move. This ensures you'll have the beautiful, straight smile of your dreams! 

During the planning stage, you will be given an estimate on how long you’ll need to wear your braces and how much they will end up costing. Then, you will have your braces applied. 

Active

The active stage is when all the magic happens. During this stage, you will be wearing your braces and any other appliance you may need.

You will need to visit your orthodontist on a regular basis for adjustments. This is when they tighten your braces, replace any rubber bands and wires needed, and make sure everything is going according to plan. 

Retention

Now that your braces are off and you have a straight smile, it's time to keep it that way! 

Even when you finish the straightening process, your teeth will naturally want to shift back to their previous position  – Retainers prevent this negative shifting from happening. Depending on your treatment plan, you will either have a permanent retainer installed or receive instructions on how to use a removable retainer. 

Need Braces in Fremont, CA?

If you’re ready to start your journey to a healthier smile you’ll want to show off for a lifetime, give us a call or contact us online today!