Does your child’s permanent retainer cost an arm and a leg? If your orthodontist charges by the hour, you may find yourself with a pretty big bill at the end of it all. The good news is that you can use an insurance plan to cover some of these costs, and there are other ways to help lower the price, too. Here’s what you need to know about the costs of permanent retainers.
How do I know if I need a permanent retainer?
Even if your orthodontist has indicated that you don’t need an additional treatment, it can be helpful to have extra help keeping your teeth from moving back. How long does it take to get braces? Follow these steps: 1) Check in with your orthodontist. Even if he or she hasn’t suggested that you get one, bring up any concerns or issues you may have about your smile and make sure there aren’t any other treatments that could be effective. 2) If a permanent retainer doesn’t seem necessary, ask whether there are any removable options available that could help keep things where they are while still providing additional support.
Permanent Retainers – How they’re made
Retainers are often made of plastic and are designed to fit snugly against your teeth. They usually cover two or more of your molars, and you wear them at night. Many people find that they’re able to get used to wearing their retainers after just a few nights. They might also be connected together by elastic bands that go around each tooth. Some people end up adjusting their retainers throughout adulthood as their jaws change, but some will never have any reason to touch theirs again (except for oral hygiene). Permanent retainers can cost anywhere from $200-$1000, depending on where you live and how fancy you want yours to be!
How much does it cost to get a permanent retainer made by an orthodontist?
Not surprisingly, cost is one of the biggest factors for many patients. Cost can be as low as $2,000 but often ranges from $4,000-$6,000 depending on your orthodontist and what treatment you’re getting. The good news is that there are plenty of financing options available—including interest-free credit cards that can make it even easier to afford your new smile. Just ask your orthodontist if they offer payment plans so you can find out exactly how much a permanent retainer will cost you.
Why do I need braces when I have a permanent retainer?
While having an orthodontic device in your mouth, such as a retainer or splint, can be extremely beneficial to correcting certain types of dental issues, they may not actually stop your teeth from continuing to move if they are capable of doing so. For example, some people have straight teeth but never wear their retainers consistently; others need braces after having orthodontic devices fitted because it becomes clear that there is still room for improvement. If you’re considering getting a permanent device placed in your mouth and want it to provide maximum benefit. Make sure you wear it regularly and get regular checkups from your dentist. This will ensure that you get every ounce of help available in correcting any problems.
What are some common problems caused by wearing retainers too long?
Your permanent retainers can actually cause dental issues, not fix them. For example, over-retaining (wearing your retainer past its intended lifespan) can change how your bite aligns. And it can also cause tension between your upper and lower jaw joints. This discomfort is what causes many people to stop. Wearing their retainers in favor of dentures. Or no fixed solution at all so instead of saving you money. An over-retained permanent retainer could actually cost you more later on down the road.
