Adult Treatment Options
Everyone deserves a perfect smile, no matter what stage in life they get it at. We are proud to offer an array of treatment options for adults so that you can feel proud to show off your beautiful teeth.
Invisalign
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a less invasive, revolutionary piece of orthodontic technology that offers much ease and comfort as well as a more discreet treatment. Treatment with Invisalign involves using a series of transparent plastic aligners, very similar to retainers, that are custom-made to each patient’s teeth and change shape over time. This allows a movement in the formation of the teeth and transformation into a beautiful smile. Invisalign is very popular amongst adult patients, and the aligners are almost undetectable from anywhere expect up close.
How does Invisalign work?
Patients wear a series of aligners that have slight differences in shape. Ideally, the patient wears their aligners for 20-22 hours a day, and swaps their aligner for the next one in the series every 7 days. A small fraction of patients will switch aligners every 10-14 days. The more time spent wearing the aligners, the quicker the teeth will transform into the desired result.
Treatment length can vary with Invisalign, depending on how far away your teeth are from the desired result. Typically, patients wear their aligners anywhere from 6-18 months, but treatment times can be shorter or longer depending on the patient.
How much does Invisalign Cost?
The cost of Invisalign, and orthodontic treatment in general, can be difficult to estimate because it relies on a few factors. Variables include the length and complexity of required treatment, as well as how much insurance benefits might exist. But the important part is this:
At Little Crown, there is NO COST DIFFERENCE between braces or Invisalign!
But to give you an idea, most patients pay between $150 and $200 per month for full treatment – whether with braces or Invisalign. If patients have insurance, payment is usually in the $130 to $200 range per month, and between $180 to $280 without insurance.
Clear Braces
Clear braces offer more cosmetic appeal than traditional metal braces. The brackets that attach to the teeth are made of clear ceramic instead of stainless steel, allowing for a more transparent look. Clear braces are a little more fragile than metal braces, and elastic ties have greater chances of discoloring between visits, but are a tried and true method and remain very popular among adults in orthodontic care.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are less common amongst adult patients, but still offer great results and a terrific smile once treatment is finished. Metal braces entail small, high-grade stainless-steel brackets that attach to the front of the teeth and are connected by two wires, one for the upper teeth and one for the lower. These wires slowly push the teeth into the correct position over time.