There are multiple orthodontic applications that can straighten misaligned teeth. Some of these orthodontic options seem almost invisible to an observer. Here are a few alignment options that are difficult to discern on the teeth:

Invisalign

Invisalign aligning trays are made of clear plastic. Thus, when the trays are worn it is difficult to see them on the teeth.

Each set of trays is worn for a couple of weeks before the set is exchanged for the next pair of aligners in the treatment process. Invisalign aligners are removable, so they don't have to be worn when a patient eats a meal or brushes his or her teeth.

In order to be eligible for Invisalign, your palate must be completely grown. As a result, this alignment option is usually reserved for teens and adults.

If you would like to choose Invisalign to correct your misaligned teeth, you can expect to pay between $4,000 and $7,400 for your treatment.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are constructed of metal, just as traditional braces are. However, traditional braces are placed on the front surface of the teeth, and lingual braces are placed on the back side of the teeth. The placement of the braces next to the tongue makes it difficult for the metal brackets to be seen by an observer.

In addition to straightening the teeth as effectively as traditional braces, lingual braces offer additional benefits. People who wear lingual braces can still move their lips freely. There is no metal or other material on the front surface of the teeth to encumber lip movement. In addition, if a person is active and plays contact sports, the impact of a ball hitting the mouth may cause less damage to the inner lips. There are no brackets for the sensitive tissues to become snagged upon.

Lingual braces are a bit more expensive than traditional braces. Lingual braces are usually priced between $8,000 and $10,000, but traditional braces are usually available for $3,000 to $7,000.

Clear Braces

Clear braces are fashioned like traditional metal braces. However, instead of metal brackets, clear braces have ceramic brackets. Since the ceramic is the same color as natural tooth material, the braces are barely noticeable when worn.

To ensure that the braces are as discreet as possible, clear elastics can be used to secure the arch wire of the braces to the ceramic brackets.

People who have their teeth aligned using clear braces can expect to pay about $4,000 to $8,000 for their treatment. To save on costs, your orthodontist may give you the option of only applying ceramic brackets to the teeth that are visible when you speak or smile.

If you are interested in having your teeth discreetly aligned, contact an orthodontist, like Smile 312: Harvey Jay Mahler DDS, in your area.