The most recent figures available in 2014 from the American Association of Orthodontists state that in the ten years proceeding this time, the number of adults getting braces in the United States had risen by 40%. The trend for adult braces increases each year as Americans deal with teeth straightening issues which have previously gone unchecked. As someone who has received a recommendation for braces from their dentist, you have concerns. You are concerned about the look of the braces and the cost of the braces versus the benefit of the braces. A breakdown of your concerns follows so that you get reassurance before getting the braces fitted.

The Braces Look

Just a decade ago, children feared being fitted with traditional braces because of being teased by others at school. No one wanted to be the "metal-mouth" kid. However, thanks to advances in dentistry, there are more options open to you. Popular choices available today include the following:

• Invisalign which is a clear plastic tray which envelopes the teeth. It can be removed while eating food, meaning no more food particles stuck in the braces component. The Invisalign tray is replaced every two weeks, so it is always fitted to the current position of your teeth.
• Lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth instead of the front. They are aesthetically more attractive as they are not easily seen, but they are difficult to clean because you can't see trapped food as easily.
• Ceramic braces attach to the front of the teeth like traditional metal braces, but the coloring of them makes them less noticeable. The brackets, bands, and wires of the braces are teeth or neutral colors, so they blend in with your mouth.

Of course, there is more to a braces decision than the look of the teeth — there is also the cost factor.

The Braces Cost

When it comes to the cost of braces, there are a number of different factors to consider. Firstly, there is the cost of the braces themselves. Oral-B released a comparison of the different types of braces and their costs. The most expensive is the lingual braces which can top out at $10,000, and the cheapest option could be traditional metal which starts around $3,000.

However, you also need to remember the additional costs. There are progress visits to the dentist while the braces do their work, plus follow-up care visits after the braces have been removed. Check with your health insurance provider to see if adult orthodontic treatment is covered under your policy as you may be able to claim for some of these costs.

The Braces Benefits

Finally, if the look and cost of braces are weighing on your mind negatively, it is important to offset these thoughts with the positivity which comes after your braces have done their job. Firstly, there is a boost to your self-confidence. A straight smile is a big smile, and it is one which you are happy to open your mouth to show off. If you have always avoided smiling in photographs, you won't have this issue after your braces treatment.

Secondly, there are the dental benefits which come from straight teeth. Straight teeth have fewer areas where food particles get trapped. This means straight teeth are easier to keep clean, and the upside of this for you is the lesser chance of cavities. Fewer cavities mean lower costs when you visit the dentist.

Having braces fitted as an adult is a positive experience for both your dental care and your self-esteem. Now that you know more about the different types of braces and their costs, you can have a discussion with your dentist to finalize which option works best for you.

For more information, contact a dental clinic like Parklane Dental.