A lot of people, especially teenagers, hesitate to use braces because they often think about the metal brackets attached to the teeth which are not very pleasing to the eye. However, thanks to the advancements in modern orthodontics, there are now less conspicuous options for straightening the teeth such as clear braces. 

 

The brackets used in clear braces are still made of metal. However, they can either be silver or tooth-colored. Several colored elastic bands are utilized to fasten the archwire to the brackets. The bands can be the color of your choice and can even be matched to the natural color of your teeth to make them more discreet. 

 

How Clear Braces Work

 

Clear braces consist of plastic or ceramic brackets glued to each tooth. A wire made from metal or a white material connects the brackets. Over time, the wire pulls the teeth in different directions to straighten them. The American Association of Orthodontists explains that this movement occurs because of bone tissue rebuilding.

 

Taking Care of Ceramic Braces

 

Ceramic braces are not as robust as metallic braces. They are also more expensive. As a result, they will require a higher level of care than is necessary for metal braces. The following recommendations are important:

 

Foods and drinks to avoid:

 

• Highly pigmented beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and soda can stain the ceramic material. Opt for clear liquids like water or plain milk instead.

• Colored fruits and vegetables: Berries, cherries, beets, and carrots can leave behind stubborn stains. Enjoy them in moderation or consider blending them for a smoother consistency.

• Sticky and chewy foods: Candy, gum, caramel, and taffy can become lodged in your braces and increase the risk of staining.

• Acidic foods and drinks: Citrus fruits, juices, and vinegar can erode the enamel around your braces and make them more susceptible to stains.

• Certain condiments: Mustard, soy sauce, and ketchup can also contribute to discoloration.

 

Brush Thoroughly and Often:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use a toothbrush with a smaller head to reach around the wires and brackets. Pay special attention to the areas around the brackets and wires, as these are where plaque tends to build up.

 

Floss Daily:

Flossing is essential for removing food particles and plaque from between your teeth and around the wires. Use a floss threader or a special orthodontic floss to navigate around the braces. Floss gently to avoid damaging the wires or your gums.

 

Rinse After Meals:

Rinse your mouth with water after every meal and snack to remove food particles and bacteria. Avoid sugary drinks and sticky foods, as these can contribute to plaque formation.

 

Use a Mouthwash:

A fluoride mouthwash can help kill bacteria and strengthen your teeth. Use a mouthwash recommended by your orthodontist.

 

Consider an Interdental Brush:

Your orthodontist may recommend an interdental brush to clean between the wires and teeth. These brushes come in various sizes, so choose the one that best fits your needs.

 

Avoid whitening toothpaste: 

 

Whitening toothpaste should not be used during the period that you are wearing braces. They can leave dark patches under the braces and may chemically affect the color of the brackets. It is also important that drinking and smoking be avoided by adults and adolescents while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Difference Between Clear Braces and Clear Aligners

 

One of the major differences between clear braces and clear aligner trays, such as Invisalign, is the material and texture. While clear aligners provide a smooth, plastic design, clear braces provide the durability that comes with traditional braces. This allows clear braces to be both sturdy and discreet without the fragility and wear and tear of plastic.

 

Another difference between clear braces and aligners is their treatment time. Clear braces may require a slight increase in treatment time compared to traditional metal braces, but they typically require less than clear aligners because of the constant force being applied to the teeth. Lastly, clear braces cannot be removed for eating and drinking as clear aligners can, making it more difficult to keep up oral hygiene. However, patients undergoing clear braces treatment are given detailed instructions on care and maintenance practices for both the braces and teeth.

 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of clear braces?

 

As with any orthodontic treatment, it is important to choose the right option for your needs and lifestyle. Clear braces are a great alternative to traditional metal braces and your orthodontist will help you determine whether they are the right treatment for you.

 

Advantages of clear braces:

 

• Appearance: Ceramic braces and clear braces are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Clear and ceramic braces offer an aesthetic alternative for patients seeking options other than traditional metal braces.

• Confidence: Many patients who choose ceramic or clear braces feel more confident about their orthodontic treatment, especially knowing that people are focusing on their smiles rather than their braces.

 

Disadvantages of clear braces:

 

• Cost: Ceramic and clear braces may cost more than traditional metal braces. Your orthodontist may offer convenient payment plans to help control the costs of your treatment. Be sure to talk to your orthodontist about all of your financial options.

• Discoloration: The clear elastic ties used with clear and ceramic braces may become slightly discolored when you drink tea, coffee, or wine, and eat certain foods or smoke. Ask your orthodontist about how you can keep your braces looking their best.

• Treatment Time: Orthodontic treatment with clear or ceramic braces may take longer than with traditional metal braces. If you don't mind investing a little more time in your smile, then talk to your orthodontist to find out how long your treatment time will be with clear or ceramic braces.

 

Are clear or ceramic braces the right choice for my smile and me?

 

By talking to experienced orthodontists at Morrone, Kaye, and Yucha Orthodontics you can decide if clear or ceramic braces are the right treatment for you. Your orthodontist can provide answers to your questions and extra information explaining the benefits of each treatment. If you would like to learn more about clear braces, ceramic braces, and all of the options available to you, please contact MKY Orthodontics and schedule an appointment today.

 

Clear Braces FAQs

 

Q. How do clear braces differ from metal ones?

 

A. The two types are similar in that they are connected by a wire using brackets attached to each tooth. While an orthodontist needs to adjust the wires of metal braces regularly, this is not necessarily the case with clear ones if they contain technology that automatically adjusts. Clear braces are more fragile and typically make adjustments more slowly than metal ones.

 

Q. What is the difference between clear braces and clear aligners?

 

A. Clear braces use brackets and wires to move teeth. Clear aligners are customized mouthpieces. Typically patients whose dental issues are less severe get aligners. People with large spaces, extreme crowding, or very crooked teeth can get better results from clear braces.

 

Q. How do you clean clear braces?

 

A. Extra care is necessary when cleaning ceramic braces because the material is more brittle. Patients should always brush their braces and teeth after eating. It is also important to floss, using an interdental cleaner or floss threader. Patients should also avoid certain foods such as hard, chewy, acidic, and crunchy foods.

 

Q. Can clear braces help with gaps in the teeth?

 

A. Yes, clear braces can help with tooth gaps. Patients who have minor or moderate gaps can get effective results with this type of braces. The process may also take less time than it does for correcting a whole mouth of crooked teeth.

 

Q. How long does it take to straighten teeth with clear braces?

 

A. The straightening process varies based on factors like the brand, the severity of the dental problem, and the patient's age. The American Dental Association Patient Education Center says the average time braces stay on typically ranges from one to three years. After treatment, patients will need to wear a retainer to prevent the teeth from moving back to their previous position.