If you are considering orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering how to find an option that fits your goals and your budget. Whether you’re hoping for a confident smile, a healthier bite, or both, orthodontic care can be life-changing, but it doesn’t have to be financially overwhelming.
At Hickman Orthodontics, Dr. Eric and Dr. Sarah Hickman serve patients in Hamilton Township, Maineville, and Liberty Township and provide access to affordable, customized treatments that suit a variety of lifestyles and budgets. This guide explores the most popular orthodontic treatments available and explains how flexible financing makes achieving a beautiful, healthy smile more affordable than ever.
Comparing Treatment Options
When choosing between braces and Invisalign, cost is just one part of the equation. The right treatment depends on your lifestyle, aesthetic goals, and orthodontic needs. Here’s a breakdown of our treatment types.
Traditional Metal Braces: Reliable and Cost-Effective
When people think of braces, they often picture traditional metal brackets and wires, for good reason. Metal braces remain one of the most dependable and affordable orthodontic options.
How they work:
Metal braces use stainless steel brackets attached to each tooth, connected by a thin wire. As the orthodontist adjusts the wire over time, gentle pressure guides the teeth into proper alignment.
Benefits:
- Affordable: Typically, the least expensive orthodontic treatment.
- Effective for all cases: Works well for both minor and complex orthodontic issues.
- Durable: Resistant to damage and suitable for patients of all ages.
- Customizable: Kids and teens can choose colorful elastics to show off their style.
For many families, metal braces offer the best balance between effectiveness and cost. At Hickman Orthodontics, patients appreciate how quickly they can see progress and how simple adjustments keep treatment moving forward.
Ceramic (Clear) Braces: Aesthetic Without Compromise
If you’re looking for something a bit more discreet but still effective, ceramic braces (sometimes called clear braces) are an excellent option. These braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in with the natural color of your teeth.
How they work:
Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces but with a more subtle appearance. They are especially popular among teens and adults who want a less noticeable treatment while still achieving great results.
Benefits:
- Discreet look: The brackets are less visible, making them a favorite for working professionals or older teens.
- Effective: Offers nearly the same treatment power as traditional braces.
- Comfortable: Smooth materials help prevent irritation to the cheeks and gums.
While ceramic braces tend to cost slightly more than metal braces, they’re still an affordable orthodontic option for patients who value appearance and comfort.
Incognito Lingual Braces: Hidden Yet Powerful
For patients who want completely invisible treatment but need the full corrective power of braces, Incognito™ lingual braces offer an ideal solution. These braces are placed on the back (tongue side) of your teeth, making them invisible when you smile.
How they work:
Lingual braces use the same technology as traditional metal braces, but because they’re attached behind the teeth, no one can see them. Each bracket is custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly for precise, comfortable movement.
Benefits:
- Completely hidden: No visible brackets or wires—perfect for professionals or image-conscious patients.
- Fully customized: Each bracket and wire is tailored for your bite and alignment.
- Effective: Works well for both mild and complex orthodontic cases.
While lingual braces can be slightly more expensive due to their customization, they’re a discreet and powerful option for those who want results without visible appliances.
Invisalign: A Modern Approach to Orthodontics
For those who want the most discreet and flexible treatment, Invisalign clear aligners provide a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth. Using a series of removable, custom-made plastic trays, Invisalign gradually shifts teeth into their ideal positions without brackets or wires.
How it works:
Patients wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next in the series. Each tray is designed to apply gentle pressure to specific teeth, moving them step by step into alignment.
Benefits:
- Nearly invisible: Perfect for adults and teens who want a low-profile treatment.
- Removable: Eat, brush, and floss as usual with no dietary restrictions.
- Comfortable: Smooth plastic trays mean no metal irritation.
- Convenient: Fewer in-office visits compared to braces.
Invisalign Teen:
Hickman Orthodontics also offers Invisalign Teen, designed specifically for growing smiles. These aligners include small compliance indicators to help track wear time, and they accommodate erupting molars or changing bite patterns. Teens love the freedom to remove them for sports, music, or special occasions, while parents appreciate the clear progress tracking. Invisalign and Invisalign Teen can treat mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues, and thanks to advances in technology, they’re more capable than ever.
Regardless of which option you choose, Dr. Hickman will help you find the treatment that aligns with your budget, lifestyle, and oral health needs.
Making Orthodontics Affordable for Every Family
At Hickman Orthodontics, affordability is a cornerstone of patient care. The practice offers several flexible financing options designed to make treatment accessible to every family in Hamilton Township.
1. Interest-Free Monthly Payment Plans
Patients can divide the total cost of treatment into manageable monthly installments without interest. This option makes it easier to plan ahead financially and enjoy a predictable payment schedule.
2. Discounts for Payment in Full
For families who choose to pay the entire treatment cost upfront, Hickman Orthodontics offers special discounts. This option can save money over time while simplifying the payment process.
3. Options for Patients Without Insurance
Even if you don’t have dental insurance, you can still access high-quality orthodontic care. Hickman Orthodontics works directly with patients to develop payment solutions that fit within their budget, ensuring that financial barriers never stand in the way of a healthy smile.
4. Coordination with Insurance Benefits
If you have orthodontic coverage through dental insurance, the team at Hickman Orthodontics will help you maximize your benefits. They handle claims and paperwork so you can focus on your treatment, not the fine print.
Why Investing in Your Smile Matters
It’s natural to think about the financial side of orthodontics, but it’s also important to view treatment as a long-term investment in your health and confidence. Straight teeth are easier to clean, lowering your risk of gum disease, cavities, and tooth wear. A properly aligned bite can also reduce jaw discomfort and improve speech and chewing efficiency.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), orthodontic treatment can begin at nearly any age, and early evaluations can even shorten future treatment time and cost. Choosing a trusted orthodontist like Dr. Hickman ensures you receive personalized care with your long-term well-being in mind.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
For new patients, scheduling a consultation at Hickman Orthodontics is the first step toward a healthier smile. During your initial visit, Dr. Hickman will:
- Evaluate your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment
- Discuss treatment options and expected outcomes
- Provide a transparent estimate of costs and timelines
- Review available payment and financing plans
- Answer any questions you may have about your treatment
This collaborative approach allows each patient to make an informed decision about which treatment is right for them without feeling pressured or uncertain.
Local Roots, Personalized Care
Hickman Orthodontics is proud to serve Hamilton Township, Maineville, and Liberty Township with a patient-first philosophy. The office combines advanced technology with compassionate care, ensuring every visit is comfortable and productive.
The practice’s commitment to community goes beyond orthodontics. Hickman Orthodontics frequently supports local schools, events, and organizations, strengthening the same neighborhoods where their patients live and work. For those seeking trusted, affordable orthodontic options close to home, it’s easy to see why so many families in the Hamilton Township area choose Dr. Hickman.
Choosing the Right Orthodontic Option for You
Each treatment offers its own set of unique rewards and advantages. Your decision will depend on factors such as:
- Budget: Traditional braces typically offer the most cost-effective route.
- Lifestyle: If you prefer discretion or flexibility, Invisalign may be ideal.
- Treatment goals: The complexity of your alignment or bite issue may determine which option is best.
- Personal preference: Comfort, aesthetics, and maintenance are all worth considering.
No matter your choice, Hickman Orthodontics ensures that every patient receives expert guidance, transparent pricing, and a plan tailored to their needs.
Take the First Step Toward Your New Smile
A confident smile is within reach, and it doesn’t have to strain your finances. At Hickman Orthodontics, patients have access to a range of treatment options and payment plans designed to make orthodontic care truly affordable.
If you’re ready to explore your options, contact us to schedule a free consultation at our Maineville or Liberty Township offices today and discover how Dr. Hickman can help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile that fits your budget and lifestyle.