1) Did I need teeth removed? No. I had all four wisdom teeth removed when I was 17, so I had plenty of space on top and bottom in the back. I had mild crowding in the front with some spaces between my lower front teeth so that gave me some extra room. All my snaggly teeth can freely migrate to where they need to be!
2) How much? Cosmetic Dentist (Invisalign) - $4999; includes retainer, trays, and all visits
Orthodontist (self-ligating metal braces w/Suresmile) - $5600; includes retainer, all visits AND a full year of follow ups after the braces are removed.
Adult orthodontics aren't covered through insurance so I'm paying full price w/o any breaks.
Both said I'd be in treatment for a year. Research told me that braces are the tried and true method of getting the teeth where they need to be. Plus, an orthodontist is skilled and trained specifically in tooth movement and balancing facial irregularities. It was love at first bite with my ortho. After meeting him and getting the consultation, I knew he'd be the one. He made me feel really comfortable and answered all my questions. Plus, he's got a great sense of humor!
Even though I paid a little more for the orthodontist, I feel I'm getting more for my money. I'm paying for the orthodontist's expertise and the technology. I think regular braces are a little cheaper than self-ligating. Self-ligating requires less visits and shorter time in braces. Not every ortho offers Suresmile so that's probably another reason for the price difference.
Here's my newest pic. I took it specifically this way to show you how much my jaw is off. One side is higher than the other, but it's slowly improving. Last week my jaw felt very unnatural, but now the teeth are meeting together much better than before. I'm not going to lie, there is some soreness.
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