How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Teeth Gap
A gap between the two upper front teeth is very common in a lot of people these days. Though this is not a serious dental problem, it can greatly affect the social life of a person. People who have a teeth gap usually find trouble with their self image and confidence.
The great news is that it is possible to fix the teeth gap these days. Dental health improvements have made it possible to fix this problem no matter how much your budget is.
The Cost Of Fixing A Teeth Gap
The cost of fixing a teeth gap varies depending on the approach of eliminating it Using teeth effect bands or teeth gap bands costs around $4 to $30.
These are non-latex rubber bands that are used to slip over the teeth overnight. It works to draw the teeth together. However, it is to be noted that dentists do not often suggest the use of bands because they can open new gaps on each side of the teeth. The bands can also loosen the tooth from the socket or pull the teeth crooked, which can definitely cause dental problems in the end. The price quoted above includes a pack of 50 to 100 teeth gap bands. Cosmetic dental bonding costs from $300 to $800 per tooth or $600 to $1,600 per tooth.
This price refers to filling the gap between the teeth with white fillings made from tooth-colored plastic resin on each adjacent tooth. It must be noted that dental bonding for cosmetic reasons is usually not covered by insurance. Dental veneers usually cost $500 to $1,300 per tooth or $1,000 to $2,600 to close the gap.
This price refers to having a dentist custom-make veneers for you and install it on the two front teeth. It must also be noted that dental veneers are seldom covered by dental insurance. Partial braces cost around $2,000 to $3,000.
Partial braces or limited orthodontics are used on the six top front teeth to close the gap between the teeth. A lot of insurance plans usually cover orthodontics for age 18 and below.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Fixing A Teeth Gap
Type. As mentioned above, the cost of fixing a teeth gap varies depending on the type of treatment you are trying to receive. It is interesting to note that fixing a teeth gap can be as low as $4 and can go as high as $3,000 or even more.
Size of the gap. The size of the gap also greatly affects the cost of fixing the problem. Small gaps are usually cheaper to fix as compared to wider gaps. Let's say for instance using orthodontics to eliminate the problem. Very small gaps can usually be corrected using a retainer instead of partial braces. Using a retainer will cost you only around $500 to $1,000 as compared to the price of partial braces that cost around $2,000 to $3,000. The same thing is true for other treatment options. For instance, when using cosmetic dental bonding, wider gaps take longer time to finish and can be a lot more complex in the part of the dentist. Hence, expect the price to go higher.
Complexity. As mentioned previously, some jobs to fix the teeth gaps can be more complex than others. This is true, for instance, when the gap is wide. Expect to pay higher for more complex jobs.
Length of treatment. This cost factor usually reflects orthodontics only. The length of treatment period to close the gap can greatly affect the cost of the whole treatment. Take note that braces can work to close the gap in a span of several months to two years.
Other dental problems. If there are other dental problems in line with the teeth gap, the dentist can suggest other ways to fix the problem. This can be a more extensive approach. For instance, using full braces instead of a partial one will cost around $5,000 to $8,000 or even more. Moreover, dental crowns can be used to cover the teeth gap with cavities and other dental problems. This can cost around $500 to $3,000 per tooth.
Dentist. The dental experience, license, and qualifications of the dentist will also affect the cost of fixing a teeth gap. The same is true for geographical location and local competition of the clinic.
Insurance. Your dental insurance can somewhat affect how much you have to pay for fixing the teeth gap. Take note that since eliminating this problem is mostly a cosmetic procedure, it rarely is covered by insurance. However, you can talk to your insurance company because some procedures may be covered.
Additional Costs
If an overlarge frenum is the cause of the teeth gap, a labial frenectomy can be ordered by the dentist. The frenum is the membrane that attaches the cheeks to the jaw and gums. This procedure is usually done after a gap is closed to prevent the problem from occurring again. Labial frenectomy costs around $250 to $1,500 and is usually not covered by insurance.
For dental veneers that do not require shaving some of the tooth enamel, extremely thin veneers can be used. This, however, can cost extra $200.
Other dental procedures in line with closing the teeth gap can cost extra. This includes initial cleaning, dental exam, and X-rays. Depending on your location and dentist, a dental exam can cost around $65 to $100 while X-rays can run from $13 to $135.
Tips Before You Decide To Fix A Teeth Gap
Know what the best option is to fix your teeth gap. Take note that not every treatment option will work greatly for you. Choosing a treatment will not just be based on your budget but will more importantly be based on the condition of the teeth gap. Consult a dental professional and talk about the best options to correct your teeth problem.
A good dentist will discuss all options for you and will tell you the pros and cons of each option. Ask the dentist all the questions you have and make sure you understand what will be done and how it will affect your dental health.
Always deal with a licensed and qualified dentist in your area. You may want to check out references or recommendations to ensure that the dentist you will be entrusting the procedure is someone on top of the industry.
As much as possible, get estimates from different dental clinics. It is good to have a consultation with different dentists so you can really pick the right treatment option and you can compare prices and services for a better selection.
Take note that a good dentist will examine your mouth first prior to giving you any treatment suggestions and price quotations. Do not trust a dentist who will give you advice right away and not examine you first.
If you want to save money, check out dental college clinics. They often offer reduced rates in exchange for dental work done by supervised students or faculty members.
If you have dental insurance, contact your provider to check out any possibilities of coverage.
Check out your local dental societies to possibly get financial assistance. Most of these groups provide assistance for low-income patients. Find out their offers and qualifications to see if you can take advantage of their help.
Comparing Teeth Gap Solutions
To help you understand better the teeth gap treatment options, the table below talks about the pros and cons of each type of solution. By merely comparing all options, it will be easier for you to pick the right solution for your condition. However, take note that your dentist has still the final say when speaking of the right solution for your teeth gap problems.
|
**Pros** |
**Cons** |
|
| **Teeth Effect Bands** | - results can be as fast as overnight - does not require extensive dental procedures - can be done at home - cheapest of all options - can cause long-term dental problems - can pull the teeth crooked - can loosen the tooth from the socket - can open two gaps on each side of the two front teeth | |
| **Dental Bonding** | - it takes just around an hour to be completed - looks natural if done by an expert cosmetic dentist - the tooth surface is slightly roughened - still a cheap teeth gap solution | - can look unnatural if not done by an expert - not usually covered by insurance |
| **Dental Veneers** | - customized to fit any teeth gap problem - looks natural - works even for large teeth gaps | - more aggressive treatment than dental bonding - more expensive - requires removing some of the tooth enamel - rarely covered by insurance |
| **Braces** | - nothing is artificial (nothing is attached and nothing is taken out) - healthier option - results will not wear out over time - covered by insurance for ages 18 and below | - too expensive - treatment time is too long (a medium-sized gap can take several months up to two years to be fixed) - wearing braces can bring discomfort - relapse is possible over time since the teeth has the tendency to go back to their original positions once the braces are taken out |