Teeth-Straightening Solutions From the Teenage Years and Beyond
From adolescents to adults, orthodontic treatments cater to all family members and smile types. Misaligned teeth and an improper bite can be difficult to clean, uncomfortable, and even painful. Orthodontic care not only enhances your smile but also significantly improves your oral health. We can resolve these issues in as little as six months with our treatments.
- Overbite: When your upper teeth protrude too far forward.
- Spacing: Gaps or spaces between your teeth.
- Underbite: When your lower teeth extend too far forward.
- Crowding: When teeth overlap or are too close together to floss properly.
- Crossbite: A bite that doesn’t align comfortably.
- Pain: Chronic headaches, jaw pain, or pain in the upper back and neck.
How do I know if I need orthodontics?
You might benefit from Orthodontic treatment if you’ve experienced any of the following problems:
Orthodontic Treatment Options
A variety of orthodontic treatments are available to suit your individual needs and budget. Here are some options that might be suitable for you:
Traditional Braces
The thought of braces often conjures up images of large, metal brackets and wires. Today’s dental brackets, however, are much smaller and less conspicuous while maintaining the same level of effectiveness. They offer improved comfort and are easier to maintain cleanliness.
Clear Brackets
For a more discreet orthodontic option, we offer clear brackets, which are particularly popular among adults. These brackets blend the effectiveness of traditional orthodontics with a less noticeable appearance, making them nearly invisible at first glance.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are now a popular orthodontic choice. These transparent, custom-fitted trays are designed to comfortably and gradually move your teeth into the desired position. You can easily remove them for meals, dental care, or special occasions such as important meetings or dates.
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in Grand Rapids
Orthodontic treatment typically costs around $4,000 to $6,000+ without insurance. For those with a standard insurance plan, the out-of-pocket expense usually falls between $3,000 and $5,000+. After conducting an oral exam, we can provide you with an accurate quote, helping you understand how much your insurance will cover and what your actual out-of-pocket costs will be.
How Do We Actually Determine the Cost of Your Orthodontic Treatment and Why Does It Seem So Expensive?
- The present condition of your teeth and gums.
- The extent of movement needed for your teeth.
- The type of orthodontic treatment you choose.
- The expected duration of your treatment.
Determining the cost of orthodontic treatment involves several considerations:
Given that every smile is unique, the only way to determine the best treatment for you and estimate the out-of-pocket cost is to schedule a consultation. Share your smile goals with us, allow us to examine your teeth, and we will design a personalized treatment plan to meet your specific needs and desires.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time for orthodontic treatment is during childhood, before the majority of adult teeth have emerged. Parents should consider scheduling a consultation for their teens. However, adults also have access to a variety of orthodontic options. Improving your smile is possible at any age!
Initially, braces do not cause any pain when applied. However, as your teeth begin to shift, you may experience some discomfort. Most patients find this sensation more irritating than painful. If you do experience significant discomfort or pain, let us know. We have ways to make your treatment more comfortable.
It’s best to steer clear of hard or sticky foods that could damage your braces, like candy apples, caramel, and corn on the cob. Clear braces can easily stain from foods such as beets, curry, and cheesy pasta dishes. Sugary and acidic foods should also be limited, as they can be more difficult to clean off your teeth. Additionally, foods like gum, popcorn, and caramel can be challenging to remove from your braces and should be avoided.
Reach out to us as soon as possible! Avoid waiting until your next scheduled visit.
Special tools like floss threaders and super floss are designed to make flossing around braces and permanent retainers easier. During your next visit, we can show you the proper techniques for using these tools to keep your teeth clean.
Orthodontic treatment can be as brief as six months for minor adjustments, but most patients will need to wear braces for six months to two years. After an oral exam, we can provide a more precise estimate tailored to your specific needs.