What to know before getting clear aligners

Posted on 11th December 2024

Are clear braces worth it? What to know before getting clear aligners

A recent study by Orthodontics Australia revealed that more than 60% of Australians are considering orthodontic treatment for their teeth. If you have to get braces but don’t want the hassle and discomfort of metal braces, clear braces might be just the thing for you. Also known as ceramic or invisible braces, clear braces are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening teeth. It’s important to review the costs and considerations of getting clear braces so you can make an informed choice.

What are clear braces?

Clear braces are just like metal braces, but they have clear brackets instead of metal ones. They are made of ceramic (or plastic) and not metal, which makes them less noticeable. 

Just like conventional braces, these braces are attached to each tooth and connected with a wire. Clear braces often also include clear wire braces. If you are self-conscious about wearing traditional braces, clear braces might be a better fit for you.

Another type of clear braces is Invisalign – these are clear braces that cover your entire teeth without using any wires – they can be removed and worn again without any hassle, and are much more comfortable than any wired braces. 

How expensive are clear braces?

Since clear braces are usually made from ceramic, they are more expensive than conventional braces. The cost of clear braces varies depending on the severity of the misalignment, the length of treatment, and the location of the orthodontist. A full 18-24 month treatment period might cost anywhere between AUD $5000-$9000. However, if your dental problems are not that severe, you might end up paying significantly less than this amount. For comparison, traditional metal braces may cost between AUD $4000-$8000.

As Dr Katrina Zhao from Midas Dental sums up, “Clear braces can be a good option for patients looking for a less noticeable alternative to traditional braces. However, they come with additional costs and considerations, including a higher price tag and increased maintenance and care. Patients should weigh these factors carefully before deciding on clear braces as a treatment option.” 

Clear braces vs. Metal Braces

One of the main advantages of clear braces is that they are less noticeable than metal braces. This can be especially appealing for adults who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional braces. Clear braces are made of a transparent or tooth-coloured material, which makes them much less visible when worn.

However, clear braces may take some more time to work than metal, because metal is stronger than ceramic. Clear braces are not as durable as traditional metal ones.

Clear braces also require more maintenance and care than traditional braces. They are more prone to staining and discoloration, and patients must be careful to avoid certain foods and drinks that can cause staining. Additionally, clear braces may need to be replaced more frequently than traditional braces, which can add to the overall cost of treatment.

Another consideration is that clear braces may not be suitable for all types of misalignment. They may not be as effective as traditional braces for more severe cases of misalignment and may require longer treatment times. Patients should discuss their treatment options with an orthodontist to determine the best course of action for their specific needs.

Can you get clear bands for clear braces?

Although clear braces do not stand out against your teeth, the bands might. To prevent this, your dentist can give you clear bands that make your braces look even more ‘invisible.’ Moreover, clear bands do not stain your teeth, so you don’t have to worry about weirdly coloured-teeth. However, note that clear braces are more prone to staining, so cut down on coffee, wine, carbonated drinks, and tobacco.

Are clear braces covered by insurance?

If your private insurance covers dental and orthodontic costs, you might be eligible for coverage for clear braces. However, it is recommended to reach out to your provider to see if your braces will be covered by insurance. Alternatively, you can also reach out to us here at Midas Dental, to go over your insurance plan and recommend a course of action.

Payment plans for clear braces

If you opt to get clear braces, it is possible to work out a payment plan that is spread throughout treatment. Reach out to your dentist’s office to chart out a payment plan that works for you. At Midas Dental, we accept cash, Apple Pay, Eftpos, health fund claims, and payment plans like Zip Pay, Afterpay, and the National Dental Plan (Humm). We also have offers for clear braces. 

The Bottom Line

Clear braces are a great option if you’re on the lookout for a more comfortable and aesthetic alternative to metal braces. If you’re looking for professional advice on picking the right kind of braces, reach out to us to schedule an appointment at our Sydney Dental Clinic.