Clear Braces
Clear braces are a popular choice for adults and teens that would like a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Options include clear aligners and clear ceramic braces, which use tooth colored ceramic brackets and wires instead for a nearly invisible look.
Clear (Ceramic) Braces
Clear ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger and are more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, clear ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth than on lower teeth.
Braces - As Low as $99 per Month!
With No Down Payment, No Credit Checks
Braces use constant, gentle pressure, applied to your teeth over time, to move them into proper position. Your braces are at work every moment of your orthodontic treatment. While braces are available in a variety of styles, including metal, plastic and ceramic, they all have the same goal: To correctly align your teeth and jaws for enhanced aesthetic appeal and for better oral health.
Metal Braces
Metal Braces are popular with children and teens, and are smaller and more comfortable than ever before. Traditional metal braces feature two main components: the brackets that are placed on each tooth and the arch wire that is threaded through them. As the wire applies pressure to one side of the tooth, the jawbone on the other side gives way. This causes the tooth to move and new bone to grow behind it. Elastic (rubber bands) are used in conjunction with braces, exerting a constant force to move teeth. Elastics must be worn at all times and changed every day in order to maintain the proper force.
Clear Aligners
As Low As $135 Per Month!
With No Down Payment, No Credit Checks
Clear Aligners are the most versatile and convenient choice among all orthodontic treatments. Made of a clear, flexible material, orthodontic aligners are comfortable, virtually invisible and removable, making them a popular choice for adults and teens who are seeking a more discrete approach to straightening their teeth. Clear aligners treat the same bite and alignment issues that traditional metal braces do, without the brackets and wires.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
A series of custom-made aligner trays are used to gradually shift your teeth into place. Each tray is designed to move just one tooth or one section of teeth at a time. Once the trays work is complete (typically every two weeks) we move on to the next stage of treatment.
Pain and Soreness
Because there are no brackets and wires, clear aligners do not cause significant pain or soreness. In some cases, patients feel temporary discomfort (pressure) for the first few days after switching trays. That pressure may be uncomfortable but is actually a good sign that the trays are doing their job!
Caring for Clear Aligners
Aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for cleaning, eating and drinking. To clean your aligners, simply brush and rinse them each time you brush your teeth.
Treatment Time
Treatment time typically falls within the range of 24 to 28 months. Patients will also benefit from wearing a retainer after treatment is complete to prevent regression. This will all be discussed as part of your overall treatment plan.
For more information on the various invisible braces solutions, please give us a call at (816) 880-3900.