Posted on March 29, 2023
Looking for an orthodontist in Plantation, Florida who can straighten your teeth? Orthodontic treatment is an essential part of dental care for both teens and adults. Aimed at correcting misalignment of the teeth and jaws, orthodontic treatment can improve the appearance of teeth and prevent other dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay.
With advancements in technology, there are several different orthodontic treatment options available today.
Metal braces are the most commonly used method for straightening your teeth. During the process, brackets are glued to the teeth and connected with metal wires made of stainless steel or nickel titanium.
The wires exert pressure on the teeth over time to gradually move them into place, while elastic bands hold the archwire in place on the brackets. Metal braces are effective in treating common dental problems like crooked or crowded teeth, gaps between the front teeth, and bite problems.
Metal braces are composed of sturdy materials that typically adhere well over time, making them an effective and the most affordable treatment option if you need orthodontic alignment.
Lingual braces are a unique orthodontic treatment that gets fixed on the interior surface of teeth (tongue side) instead of the front, like traditional braces.
Lingual braces are virtually invisible eliminating the concern that many adult patients have about wearing unsightly brackets. Dr. Khakhria uses lingual braces on patients who want discreet orthodontic treatment.
These systems utilize small brackets that are easy to bond. These hidden lingual braces are fixed behind the six upper or lower teeth. The application process takes about 30 minutes and Lingual braces can achieve your desired results in about 12 to 24 weeks.
If conventional fixed appliances like ceramic or metal seem unappealing, another option is Invisalign® aligners — clear plastic mouthpieces that can be removed when eating or brushing/flossing your teeth.
The clear aligners shift teeth into the proper position gradually and discreetly.
In addition, to the original Invisalign, there is also Invisalign Teen. These aligners offer all the same benefits, with additional features that make the process more user-friendly for adolescents. For example, Invisalign braces for teens guide teeth roots, and new molars into the proper position when they begin erupting.
It’s important to remember that each patent is different and there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment plan as to when orthodontic treatment should start. The American Association of Orthodontics (ADA) recommends that children visit an orthodontist for their first evaluation by the age of 7.
Some orthodontic issues are easier to treat while children are young and others might be better solved as they get into their teenage years. A good time to start orthodontic treatment might be when you start to notice specific issues:
Crooked or over-crowded teeth: This common problem can easily be treated with metal braces or clear aligners. Orthodontic treatment for crooked teeth is usually recommended between the ages of 12-15 when the adult teeth have come in.
Overbite or Underbite: Issues with jaw alignment typically recommended treatment between the ages of 8-14 while the jaw is still growing.
Speech Issues: If a child is having difficulty with speech due to the positions of their teeth or jaw, the recommended treatment age is between 8-14.
According to the American Dental Association 2020 Survey of Dental Fees, on a National scale the average cost of braces was $5,300 for adolescents and $5,400 for adults. Other factors can make some types of treatment more expensive than others.
Most dental insurance plans don’t cover braces for adults but will partially cover treatment for children under the age of 18 if braces are deemed to be medically necessary. Check with your insurance provider or contact your local Plantation orthodontist to find out if your orthodontic treatment plan will be covered by insurance.
The full price of braces will vary. Here are some factors that can change the total cost:
Orthodontics is a great way to improve the health of your teeth and give you a beautiful smile. Schedule a consultation with your local Plantation orthodontist today to receive a treatment plan that is customized to your needs and goals.
At Jacaranda Smiles, our certified and experienced team of orthodontists and dentists have extensive experience in providing personalized solutions to correct teeth misalignment by creating customized treatment plans that fit your budget and lifestyle.
We believe everyone deserves a quality smile that looks great and lasts a long time. That’s why we offer advanced orthodontic treatment in Plantation to create your perfect smile.
Monday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday By Appointment Only