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Think back to your high school days when there was always that one kid sporting a distinctive metal smile. Looked a little uncomfortable, didn't it? The good news is, we've come a long way since the days when braces were your only option for straightening your teeth.
A world of invisible braces is now available, including EZ SMILE, and here we look at the costs, treatment, and whether it's covered by health insurance.
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EZ SMILE is a set of clear aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. In a procedure popularised by companies like Invisalign, EZ SMILE creates a teeth straightening plan personalised to you using clear aligners which gradually move your teeth into their final straighter position.
The clear aligners come as a set of multiple aligners which you'll change every two to three weeks. You're expected to wear your aligners for 20 hours per day and only take them out to eat, drink hot liquids or brush your teeth.
EZ SMILE's clear aligners aren't for everyone. The brand told Finder that their treatment is suitable for 'mild to moderate' cases and if a person's teeth are 'overly crowded', then it might not be suitable.
EZ SMILE has a refund policy in place if it determines you are not a good candidate after your initial assessment. The company says it's risk-free to see if you're a suitable candidate for treatment. You can book a free 3D scan at one of its scan centres, or order an at-home impression kit to see a simulation of what your new smile could look like.
The cost of EZ SMILE's clear aligners is $2,149 with an upfront payment. This includes your assessment, first set of retainers post-treatment and all postage.
EZ SMILE also offers payment plans that allow you to pay for the treatment over the course of several months which does attract a higher cost. For example, EZ SMILE's Split It plan lets you spread the cost of repayments for up to 24 months from $26 per week. However, this package works out at $2,799 in total.
While the cost of metal braces depends on several factors, you can expect the total cost to be around $6,000 – $9,000. You may be entitled to claim a portion of the cost back if you have health insurance.
No, EZ SMILE is not currently registered with any health funds which means you'll have to cover the full cost yourself.
You do, however, have several payment options to choose from including instalment options with providers like Zip Money.
When comparing the process involved to metal braces, EZ SMILE makes easier work of your treatment.
Assessment can be done remotely, readjustments require no or minimal office visits and there are fewer hygiene and dietary restrictions involved. Not to mention they are the more aesthetically pleasing option.
The first step to getting metal braces involves an appointment with an orthodontist who will take a series of X-rays and photos along with an impression of your teeth. Once applied, metal braces require adjustment by your orthodontist every four to six weeks.
There are many reasons to choose EZ SMILE over its competitors. The lower cost is a big one but with those savings comes the added responsibility of taking your teeth alignment into your own hands (with help from EZ SMILE's support channels).
Here are some of the main pros and cons to think about before you consider EZ SMILE.
EZ SMILE gives you the option of either using an impression kit to make moulds of your teeth at home or you can leave it up to the pros and book a 3D scan at one of the many locations available around Australia.
Here are some of the most central locations:
There are now several teeth-straightening treatment options available but the most well-known is undoubtedly the traditional metal braces. Brackets are affixed to your teeth and connected by wires that use a constant but gentle force to align your teeth.
EZ SMILE's aligners are clear and removable but this means it's your responsibility for putting them in and wearing them for the necessary hours each day.
Is EZ SMILE safe?
As with any other orthodontic treatment, your first stop should be at your dentist's office for a consultation. Your dentist can help you decide if EZ SMILE's clear aligners are a safe and effective option for you.
Does EZ SMILE hurt?
You may experience a little soreness or discomfort for the first few days as your mouth becomes used to wearing the aligners. Some discomfort might recur when you move on to the next aligner in the series.
How soon do you start seeing results with EZ SMILE?
Many people start seeing results as soon as two months into treatment.
What's the main difference between EZ SMILE and Invisalign?
The main difference is that with Invisalign, all treatment is handled by your dentist or orthodontist. While with EZ SMILE, once you've completed your initial assessment and your aligners have been sent, it's up to you to manage your treatment.