How Much Do Braces Cost With a Healthcare Card?

Table of contents

1. Types of Braces
   1. Clear Aligners
   2. Effectiveness
2. How Much Are Braces?
   1. Clear Aligners Cost
3. Braces Cost

In recent surveys, over 50% of the Australian population is self-conscious about their teeth. Another 62% of the population are willing to undergo corrective strategies to straighten their teeth. Additionally, approximately 40,000 Australians opted for clear aligners over braces for adjusting their teeth. At any age, we all want to have that dashing smile. Sometimes the price tag remains in the way. In general, how much do braces cost? The perfect smile does not have to come at a high cost. To learn more about how to find cost-friendly options braces cost, then keep reading on.

Types of Braces

There are several different types of braces from clear aligners to metal brackets. The cost of these two will vary for a couple of different reasons. Metal braces are exactly as they sound. These are the ones that are fairly typical for teens and children to wear. However, as we get older, it is more likely that we want something a bit more subdued. For those of us out there that want to go down the inconspicuous route, what other options are there? Clear aligners are an easy option that works towards straightening teeth from the comfort of one’s home. That’s right. No nagging dental appointments or pesky metal brackets. Teeth braces such as clear aligners use transparent plastic that fits snuggly over the teeth. Typically, as our teeth shift, then a new clear aligner is given. This option is more discreet than metal braces and we can take it off for eating food or drinking. Often times they are much more comfortable since people can continue to brush and floss their teeth as they normally would.

Clear Aligners

How exactly do clear aligners work? First, an impression kit is sent to the person’s house. These impression kits give the team an idea of where someone’s teeth are currently at and what corrections are needed. Once the impression kit is sent back to the office, then customized retainers are created. Each retainer is worn for approximately ten days. It is also critical to note that the daytime retainers should be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. Sometimes, we don’t want the hassle of wearing a retainer all day long. In that case, there is the option for a night retainer that requires someone to wear it for approximately 8 to 10 hours each night.

Effectiveness

Are clear aligners effective at aligning teeth? The last thing we want to do is drop money on our teeth only to have it not end up the way we wanted. One study looked at the effectiveness of clear aligners. Some concerns with these aligners stem from do they work and are they safe? The study found them effective for mild to moderate misalignment cases. It also resulted in fewer white spot lesions. Long term studies were needed to see the lasting effects of clear aligners. These results are promising. It is important to keep in mind that if someone has severe jaw or bite issues, then it might be more worthwhile to visit an orthodontist to see about the right corrective bracing. However, for simple cosmetic fixes then clear aligners are shown to work well for mild to moderate adjustments.

How Much Are Braces?

Braces are notoriously known for their expense. Metal braces tend to range from $6,000 to $9,000 in Australia. This accounts for an 18 to 24 month period. It is important to keep in mind that each region might differ in their fees and prices. Additionally, if there are more complications or areas of misalignment that need fine-tuning, this price will increase. The duration of braces is one of the biggest factors in cost. Some offices provide payment plans for metal braces. How much do braces cost in Australia with insurance? Unfortunately, it depends on the insurance and the coverage options. Some insurances will only cover approximately $200. Other insurance policies might cover up to $2,500 or more. Costs become a bit trickier when you consider how much you claim versus how much you spend. In situations where only one person is getting braces, the cost of coverage might not be worth it. For kids and teens, the highest out-of-pocket cost was found with 13-year-olds. This cost was above $4,000.

Clear Aligners Cost

If you want a more cost-friendly option without braces insurance, then there are options. Clear aligners tend to be cheaper. For even more budget-friendly plans, then the SmilePath options provide families and individuals with an opportunity for a beautiful smile at a low cost. At most, out-of-pocket expenses for clear aligners top out at $1899. There are also options for monthly instalments that are only $117 a month. For additional information on payment plans, then contact a qualified representative to discuss options. For nighttime retainers, then the cost remains under $2,000. Like the daytime retainers, these aligners also provide options for monthly instalments. Aligning one’s teeth in a worry-free manner is easier when someone isn’t spending thousands of dollars. Additionally, the SmilePath option is likely cheaper than using insurance with metal braces.

Braces Cost

The braces cost doesn’t have to be through the roof. In fact, a dazzling smile is just right around the corner through the SmilePath plan. We all deal with cosmetic insecurities. The clear aligner allows anyone to subtly change their smile without having braces. Better yet – all of this gets delivered straight to our homes. So, don’t wait any longer and make the obvious and more cost-friendly choice to go with clear aligners.