Orthodontic Appliances – Richardson, TX
More than Just Braces!
While it can be easy to think that orthodontic care just consists of braces and Invisalign, the truth is that Dr. Jones and Dr. Amerson are able to utilize a wide variety of appliances to help our patients achieve straighter, healthier, and more beautiful smiles. From retainers to thumb cribs to expanders and more, these appliances enable us to perfectly tailor someone’s treatment so their results are gorgeous and their experience is as comfortable as possible. To see which orthodontic appliances in Richardson, TX might be best for you or your child, we invite you to schedule a FREE consultation here at Richardson Orthodontics.
Why Choose Richardson Orthodontics for Orthodontic Appliances?
- Board-Certified Orthodontist with 16 Years of Experience
- Custom-Made Appliances for Each Patient
- Appliances Made In-House with 3D Printer
Why Do We Need Orthodontic Appliances?
In short, the orthodontic appliances we offer allow our team at Richardson Orthodontics to customize your treatment even further. We can use palatal expanders to create more space, thumb cribs to break bad habits, and retainers to perfectly preserve the results. This is just a small sample of the appliances we use every day! Dr. Jones and Dr. Amerson will be able to explain more when you come to see them in person.
Retainers
After an orthodontic treatment has finished, retainers ensure that the teeth stay in their new positions. Depending on your or your child’s specific needs, Dr. Jones and Dr. Amerson may recommend a fixed or removable retainer. Without them, the teeth would actually start to drift back to where they started, which is a phenomenon known as “orthodontic relapse.” That would mean your child’s dedication, your investment, and both of your valuable time would go to waste – no one wants that!
Palatal Expanders
In some cases, a child’s hard palate (the roof of their mouth) is too narrow to allow their teeth to come in at the correct positions. Often, we use something called a palatal expander to correct this issue. The expander uses gentle pressure to widen the roof of the mouth and guide the proper development of the upper jaw. Since children’s mouths are still developing, a palatal expander can be a very effective means for helping patients to avoid future dental and orthodontic problems.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PALATAL EXPANDERS
Thumb Crib
Will your child just not stop sucking their thumb? Unfortunately, this can negatively impact the look, health, and function of their smile. The good news is that we can help break the habit with a thumb crib. This small appliance has a simple purpose: it prevents your child from putting their thumb in their mouth. If you think your child would benefit from one, then don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our Richardson orthodontist to learn more!
Understanding the Cost of Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic appliances can play a vital role in helping you maintain a healthy and attractive smile. Of course, each comes with its own price, which depends on a few different factors. Our team will help you understand the cost of your appliance and familiarize you with your payment options. Rest assured that we want the financial aspect of your treatment to be as stress-free as possible.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Orthodontic Appliances
A few factors that can influence the cost of orthodontic appliances in Richardson include:
- The type of appliance. Fixed retainers, Essix retainers, Hawley retainers, thumb cribs, and palatal expanders all have different price points.
- Materials used. We strive to use only top-quality materials so our patients enjoy durable and effective orthodontic appliances. Naturally, this can affect cost.
- Manufacturer/brand. We 3D-print many of our appliances right here in our office, which cuts out the middleman and helps our patients save. Appliances that come from outside companies may have a different price.
Professional Orthodontic Appliances vs. Other Options
You might have seen videos or articles explaining how to make your own orthodontic appliances at home; this is particularly common with retainers. However, extreme caution is in order. DIY retainers may be made out of materials that are not good for your mouth or body. Plus, they are unlikely to fit as well as a professional retainer, meaning that they will not maintain your treatment results as well as you would like.
You should also be wary of mail-order orthodontic appliances. They might require you to take your own impressions, and even a small mistake while doing so could lead to 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 for orthodontic care. If you have not already used up that maximum, it is likely that you can apply a portion of it toward your orthodontic appliance. Up to 50% of the cost of your care might be covered. Our team are experts at handling insurance claims, so you can count on us to help you use your policy in the most advantageous way possible.
If your insurance will not cover your appliance, you might be able to tap into your flexible spending account or healthcare savings account to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Options for Making Orthodontic Appliances Affordable
As your orthodontist in Richardson, we want you to be able to afford the appliances you need to have a healthy smile. We will do our best to recommend an appliance that is within your budget. We also offer convenient in-house financing. During your FREE consultation, we will let you know more about your payment options
Orthodontic appliances can vary in price, but however much yours will cost, you can be sure that it will be a smart investment in your oral health and overall wellness. Get in touch today to learn more about these appliances and their cost.
Orthodontic Appliance FAQs
If your orthodontist recommends an oral appliance for you or your child, it’s normal to have a few concerns about the road ahead, but there isn’t any reason to worry. We will explain everything during your appointment. While you wait, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions to ease any apprehensions.
How should I care for an orthodontic appliance?
Whether fixed or removable, your dental hygiene is crucial when using any type of oral device. Not to mention, it preserves the lifespan of the appliance to get the most out of your investment. A daily cleaning routine will protect your smile and the device. Brush your teeth for 2 full minutes in the morning and night, if not after every meal. Floss between each tooth daily to clean anywhere your toothbrush might have missed. A water flosser can be helpful if you have fixed orthodontics. A high stream of water pressure can clean areas you can’t reach with your toothbrush or floss. If your appliance is removable, your orthodontist in Richardson will explain how to care for it, such as using cleaning tabs.
How do I clean my oral appliance?
Plaque and bacteria can thrive on dental appliances, which can compromise your oral and general health. It can also lead to unpleasant odors and damage the device. Therefore, you will need to keep your appliance clean. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your appliance, but avoid using abrasive dental products to prevent damage. Swishing your mouth with water or gargling can help keep fixed devices clean. Your orthodontist will review any additional aftercare instructions before you head home.
What can I expect during the first few days?
Your oral appliance will be crafted to fit your smile like a glove; however, it will feel foreign in your mouth for a few days. It can be difficult to swallow or speak, but practice makes perfect. Within a few days, you’ll be adjusted to wearing your oral appliance. In fact, you may even forget it is in your mouth.
Can I use superglue to fix a broken appliance?
Superglue is handy to have around the house for quick repairs, but you shouldn’t use it on any oral appliance. It can contain toxic chemicals or cause allergic reactions. Not to mention, superglue doesn’t last long in moist environments like your mouth. Although it will provide a quick fix, it’s best to leave the mending for the professionals. If your oral appliance breaks, contact our office right away. After assessing the situation, we’ll repair or replace it, so you can continue on your orthodontic journey.
Can I use my dental insurance to pay for it?
Every insurance policy is unique, and every situation differs. Depending on the type of appliance and the reason it’s needed, you may be able to use your dental coverage to offset the cost. Typically, if they are medically necessary, you can use your plan to lower the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket. Don’t worry, a member of our team will help you maximize any applicable benefits.