Are your teeth crooked or crowded? Does your overbite or underbite make it hard for you to eat or speak clearly? Is your jaw causing you constant pain? Is your mouth making you too self-conscious to enjoy spending time with family and friends?
If you face any of these problems, you may need an orthodontist in Philadelphia.
Orthodontics is the specialized branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing and correcting abnormalities in teeth and jaws. But finding an affordable orthodontist can be a challenge. More people in the U.S. report “financial barriers to receiving dental care,” including orthodontics, than any other type of health care.
Penn Dental Medicine at PHMC Public Health Campus on Cedar helps patients in West and Southwest Philadelphia get the low-cost orthodontics they need. Whether it’s affordable braces or more complicated treatment, we bring solutions for a healthier mouth, a more attractive smile, and greater self-esteem within reach.
How Orthodontic Treatment Can Benefit You
Orthodontics isn’t only for children and adolescents. Orthodontists in Philadelphia can treat anyone with healthy teeth and gums, bringing the benefits of treatment to patients of all ages.
Those benefits are numerous. When teeth are crooked or misaligned, plaque and bacteria can build up, raising the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Straight teeth are easier to clean and keep clean, making the threat of these and other oral health problems far less.
Misaligned teeth can also cause malocclusions, or “bad bites.” Malocclusions can lead to headaches, neck pain, and back pain. Correcting the bite with orthodontic treatment can relieve these symptoms.
Additionally, when people are unhappy with their smiles, their confidence and self-esteem tend to suffer. Improving the appearance of the teeth can improve their self-image and quality of life.
Choosing the Right Type of Orthodontic Treatment
Does the mention of orthodontics make you think of outdated “metal mouth” stereotypes? You might be surprised to discover the range of treatment options now available.
Each method has benefits and drawbacks. Their costs can vary significantly. Ultimately, your experienced Philadelphia orthodontist will help you determine what type of treatment is best for you.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces remain the most common type of braces. They use brackets bonded to the teeth and connected with wires to gradually move teeth into the correct position. Traditional braces are efficient and effective in correcting even the most severe misalignments. And because they are made of durable materials, they are also less prone to breakage and damage.
Patients must avoid certain foods that may damage the brackets or wires. They will also need occasional adjustments and tightening appointments to ensure their treatment progresses as it should. However, metal braces are a dependable and often the most affordable braces option.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces also use brackets and wires, but the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored materials. They are less noticeable and can be a great option for patients who want traditional braces’ effectiveness but are self-conscious about their appearance.
Patients with ceramic braces should avoid foods and drinks that can cause stainings, such as coffee or red wine. Ceramic braces are more fragile and tend to be more expensive than metal braces, but many patients find them a worthwhile investment in their smile and overall confidence.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces use brackets and wires placed on the inside (lingual) surface of the teeth, making them virtually invisible. This positioning does require extra care during brushing and flossing. They may also irritate the tongue.
Lingual braces tend to be more expensive than traditional braces. But many patients feel the benefit of having a discreet orthodontic treatment is worth the investment.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are clear plastic trays custom-made to fit over your teeth. They are removable, which makes regular eating and oral hygiene easier to maintain during treatment. And because they lack brackets and wires, they can be more comfortable than traditional metal braces.
Aligners are most effective in correcting mild to moderate malocclusions. Patients must wear them consistently for at least 22 hours a day and must switch their old trays for new ones every few weeks. Dental lab fees for manufacturing this ongoing supply of new trays can make aligners more expensive than traditional braces. For some patients, however, aligners’ ease and discretion justify the additional cost.
Find an Affordable Orthodontist in Philadelphia at PDM at PHMC on Cedar
No matter which treatment you receive, its final cost will depend on factors including the severity of your condition, length of treatment, and such additional costs as X-rays, retainers, and adjustments.
Talk with your Philadelphia orthodontist to discuss which treatment option is best for you and your budget. They can provide you with a detailed cost estimate and help you explore payment options, insurance coverage, and other financing solutions.
Ultimately, the cost of orthodontic care is an investment in your oral health and well-being. The benefits of having a healthier, more beautiful smile can last a lifetime.
At PDM at PHMC on Cedar, we provide affordable general dental care in West and Southwest Philadelphia. While we offer limited low-cost orthodontic services in our clinic at 54th Street and Cedar Avenue in Cobbs Creek, we can refer you to the team of orthodontic specialists at PDM’s easily accessible location at 40th and Walnut.
We’ll also work with you to ensure your orthodontic care is as affordable as possible. PDM at PHMC on Cedar accepts most dental insurance coverage, as well as all Medicaid plans offered to Southeastern Pennsylvania residents. We can also help qualified patients establish fixed-rate payment plans, including a six-month no-interest if paid in full plan.
Don’t let your worries about cost keep you from exploring your options for affordable braces and other orthodontic treatments with the Philadelphia orthodontists at PDM at PHMC on Cedar. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 855-887-9229 or by filling out this form.
