Clear Braces
Not to be confused with clear aligners, clear braces are traditional orthodontic braces that use the latest advances in dental materials to be nearly invisible.
Clear orthodontic aligners give many patients the option of straightening their teeth or fixing their bite without having to get braces. However, some patients have tooth alignment problems that need a more efficient approach to tooth movement, which traditional braces can provide. There are several dental conditions that are hard to fix using just clear aligners, such as teeth that need to be moved vertically (such as canines that erupted too high). Braces may be able to move those teeth more quickly. Clear braces offer the strength and versatility of traditional braces, but without the metal-mouth.
What Are Clear Braces?
The Advantage of Clear Braces
Procedure Overview
While clear braces are sometimes a little more costly that metal braces, they can be more affordable than clear aligners. The treatment time with clear braces is the same as metal braces, averaging 24 months. Some patients may be able to do a mix of clear braces and clear aligners to achieve the desired result. As will all orthodontic treatments, the total treatment time and the cost depend on the severity of the misalignment that needs to be fixed. Any dentist or orthodontist will tell you that no two cases are the same.
If you opt for clear ceramic braces instead of traditional metal braces or clear aligners, you’ll need to stay on top of your oral hygiene routine to keep them looking good. Clear or tooth-coloured brackets are more prone to staining and discolouration from foods and beverages, which can ultimately draw more unwanted attention than metal braces! Brushing and flossing after meals will ensure you get the maximum cosmetic benefit from your clear braces. If you don’t maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine, you’ll probably be better off with a set of traditional braces. On the other hand, if clear braces pressure you into adopting a better dental care regimen, then we strongly encourage you to give them a try!