Orthodontic care is about more than just braces! Drs. Jones and Amerson use a wide variety of specially crafted appliances that are made in-office to promote a healthier and more beautiful smile for patients of all ages. We offer thumb cribs, palate expanders, and retainers to help tailor your treatment to provide optimum results. To learn more about the different orthodontic appliances in Plano, TX, that we offer for children and adults, contact our orthodontic office today!
Orthodontic Appliances – Plano, TX
We Offer More
than Just Braces!
Why Choose Willow Bend Orthodontics of Plano for Orthodontic Appliances?
- Board-Certified Orthodontist with 16 Years of Experience
- Putty-Free iTero Digital Impression System
- Appliances Made In-House with 3D Printer
Why Do We Need Orthodontic Appliances?
The purpose of orthodontic care is to bring the teeth and jaws into proper alignment. In some cases, that can be accomplished with braces alone. In other instances, though, additional accessories are necessary. These custom appliances can prevent orthodontic problems or open the way for future orthodontic treatment. They often work as part of a comprehensive care plan that is designed to produce the best possible long-term outcomes for patients.
Retainers
Did you know that roughly 50% of patients experience orthodontic relapse in the months or years following their braces treatment? At Willow Bend Orthodontics, we want to straighten your teeth and help you enjoy results that last for a lifetime. That is why we provide our patients with custom-made retainers! We will help you pick the best one for your unique dental needs as well as share detailed instructions on how to take care of it so it lasts.
Palate Expanders
When a child arrives for orthodontic treatment but lacks the necessary space in the roof of their mouth, it can make wearing braces much harder. Crooked teeth that have already erupted or those that have yet to come through because of impaction can be treated with the help of palate expanders. These metal bars can be placed along the roof of the mouth and widened over time to create additional space for successful orthodontic care.
Thumb Crib
Prolonged thumb-sucking during childhood can interfere with oral development and lead to the need for extensive orthodontic care later on. To prevent this issue, we offer custom-made thumb cribs, which are also known as palatal cribs. These are fixed in the mouth and consist of bars that sit just behind the upper front teeth. A thumb crib prevents the thumb from touching the roof of the mouth, which makes it impossible for a child to experience the pressure and sucking sensation that normally comes with thumb-sucking.
Understanding the Cost of Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic appliances can play an important role in helping you to maintain an attractive and healthy smile. Of course, each appliance comes with its own price, which depends on a number of different factors. Our team will help you understand the cost of your appliance and discuss payment options with you. Rest assured that we will aim to make the financial aspect of your care as stress-free as possible.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Orthodontic Appliances
Some factors that can influence the cost of orthodontic appliances in Plano include:
- The specific type of appliance. Hawley retainers, fixed retainers, Essix retainers, palatal expanders, and thumb cribs all have different price points.
- Materials used. We strongly prefer to use only top-quality materials so our patients enjoy orthodontic appliances that are both durable and effective. Naturally, this can have an impact on cost.
- The origin of the appliance. We 3D-print many orthodontic appliances right here in our office, which cuts out the middleman and helps to reduce costs. Appliances that come from outside companies may have quite different pricing.
Professional Orthodontic Appliances vs. Other Options
You might have come cross articles or videos explaining how to make your own orthodontic appliances at home; this is especially common with retainers. However, extreme caution is in order. DIY retainers may be constructed out of materials that are not suitable for use inside the human body. Plus, they are unlikely to fit as well as a professional option, meaning that they will not be able to maintain your treatment results as well as they should.
Also, keep in mind that you should be wary of mail-order orthodontic appliances. They might require you to take your own dental impressions, and even a small mistake while doing so could leave you with an appliance that does not fit or function as well as desired.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Orthodontic Appliances?
Some dental insurance plans have a lifetime orthodontic maximum. If you have not already used up that maximum on your braces or clear aligners, it is likely that you can apply it toward your orthodontic appliance. Around 50% of the cost of your device might be covered. Our team are pros at handling insurance claims, so you can rely on us to help you maximize your benefits.
If your insurance will not provide any coverage for your appliance, you might be able to tap into your flexible spending account or healthcare savings account to lower your out-of-pocket costs.
Options for Making Orthodontic Appliances Affordable
As your orthodontist in Plano, we want you to be able to afford everything you need in order to achieve and maintain a healthy smile. We will strive to recommend an appliance that is within your budget. We can also provide convenient in-house financing. During your consultation, we will talk with you in detail about your payment options.
Orthodontic appliances are available at various price points, but however much yours will cost, you can be confident that it will be a smart investment in your oral health and overall wellness. Get in touch with our well-reviewed team today to learn more about these appliances and their cost.
Orthodontic Appliances FAQs
If our team informs you that you or your child will need an orthodontic appliance, it is only expected that you will have questions! We will be happy to speak to you during your next appointment. In the meantime, you may gain some valuable insight by reviewing the FAQs that are answered below.
How Should I Care for an Orthodontic Appliance?
Whether your appliance is fixed in your mouth or removable, taking good care of it can allow it to function properly and last as long as possible. A thorough daily cleaning routine is important; you should brush your teeth for a full 2 minutes twice a day and floss regularly. A water flosser can also be useful.
If your appliance is removable, you may need to periodically soak it in a cleaning solution and use a soft brush to remove bacteria and food particles from all its surfaces. Our team can provide instructions that are tailored to your specific appliance.
How Do I Clean My Oral Appliance?
Plaque and bacteria can accumulate on orthodontic appliances, which can lead to bad breath, dental infections, and other problems. Fortunately, keeping your appliance clean should be neither difficult nor time-consuming. Here are a few tips:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap to clean all the surfaces of a removable appliance. (If your appliance is fixed, try to brush it thoroughly during your regular oral hygiene routine.)
- Regularly rinse with water or antibacterial mouthwash.
- Use a water flosser or other special cleaning supplies as directed by our team.
What Can I Expect During the First Few Days with My Appliance?
Your appliance will be customized for your unique mouth. However, you can still expect it to feel strange and even a bit uncomfortable for a few days. Swallowing and speaking may be more challenging than they were previously. Do not worry. With a bit of time and practice, your appliance should become a normal and easy part of your daily routine. Sometimes you might even forget you are wearing it!
Can I Use Superglue to Fix a Broken Appliance?
Superglue is handy for repairing items around the house, but it is not suitable for use on oral appliances. It may contain toxic chemicals or instigate an allergic reaction. It may also not last very long in the mouth’s moist environment.
If you ever accidentally break your orthodontic appliance, visit our team. We may be able to repair it or, if necessary, replace it altogether. We want to get your treatment back on track ASAP!
Can I Use My Dental Insurance to Pay for My Orthodontic Appliance?
Every dental insurance policy is unique, so we cannot make any promises about what your plan will cover. However, it is likely to cover your appliance if it has a provision for orthodontic care, and you have not yet met your plan’s lifetime orthodontic maximum. Our team welcomes insurance, and we will be happy to help you understand and use your benefits.