The search for the perfect braces with missing teeth can be difficult, especially since there are many types of braces on the market today. There are typically four main types of braces available to those who have missing teeth and are interested in dental work: clear braces, metal braces, ceramic braces, and green braces. Let’s look at each one so you can decide which one will best serve your particular case and preferences.
How much do they cost?
The cost of braces for missing teeth can vary depending on where you live, your dentist, and a number of other factors. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $3,000-$6,000 for braces that include having to have some teeth removed. The actual costs will vary greatly between different procedures and dentists. Be sure to shop around before committing to a dentist or procedure.
If you’re in an HMO or PPO health plan, check with your insurance company about what kind of coverage you’ll get for braces. Most plans cover basic braces but may not cover dental implants used in conjunction with braces. You should also call local dental offices and ask how much they charge for their various services so that you know what’s standard when it comes to fees (which isn’t always easy). You can save a little bit by avoiding going to a specialist who only works on orthodontics; instead look at general practitioners who may be less expensive but still effective in getting results.
What are your options?
Do you want a retainer to hold your teeth in place while they’re missing? Do you just want braces without any teeth, or do you want to get fixed braces and have them straighten out your teeth at the same time? We know it’s not easy to figure out which option is best for you. That’s why we offer free consultations for anyone in or around Macon County who needs a little help figuring out what will work best for their mouth and budget. If you have questions about finding missing-teeth braces, call us today!
How long will it take?
The first step to finding your perfect set of braces with missing teeth is to have an appointment at your dentist’s office. Your dentist will use X-rays, photographs and sometimes even models of your teeth to pinpoint what they believe is a problem area. Based on these findings, they will offer you treatment options. One option could be Invisalign braces. These options can take anywhere from four months to two years or more depending on how severe your case is. While Invisalign offers quicker treatment, there are other options available that are virtually invisible but may take longer for you to get through.
Is it worth it?
If you’re missing only one tooth, traditional braces may not be your best option. Traditional braces attach to teeth on both sides of your mouth and can make it hard to bite down on something that’s right in front of a space left by a missing tooth.
Not only will traditional braces limit your eating options, but they may also lead to overbite issues because they force all teeth in your jaw to move at once. An alternative solution is dental implants, which attach permanently and comfortably to your jaw bone. Though they do require several steps before and after placement, dental implants are actually quite convenient since they replace just one tooth rather than many.
What if I’m missing only one tooth?
In most cases, if you’re getting braces with missing teeth and your dental insurance is covering your braces, then you should make an appointment for a consultation before making a final decision. The reason for this is simple—the dentist will know how much your insurance company will cover.
Even if there are no limitations on what services can be performed at that particular clinic, there might be limitations on what materials are used. So if you want to get ceramic braces, but your insurance only covers metal or clear plastic brackets and wires, that could mean a lot of money out of pocket.
What about insurance?
Make sure to ask your dental insurance provider about coverage. It might be worth it to check in with them before making an appointment. Some companies provide a discount for patients who choose certain types of dental providers over others, so you might save some money on your braces if you do your homework beforehand.
Remember: You are responsible for paying any difference in cost between what is covered by insurance and what isn’t, so make sure you know exactly how much work will be done on your teeth and how much you will need to pay upfront or via monthly installments after that.
