How does a patient decide between clear braces and other types of devices that straighten teeth? There are many options for a reason: Everyone has different preferences and needs, and not all patients want their braces to be visible to others. Read more about clear braces and learn about a few clear braces maintenance tips.
Clear braces are similar to traditional metal braces in the way that they use brackets and wires to straighten teeth. Learn more below about how these braces differ from traditional ones (as well as clear aligners) and gain an understanding of which type of appliance may be correct for you.
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires that can be adjusted over time to shift the teeth into a healthier or better-looking position. The downside of traditional braces, especially for adults, is that the brackets and wires can be extremely visible to others. If you only have to wear braces for a few months, you may not mind this aspect of the journey — but if you are committing to braces for two to three years, you may wish for a less noticeable route. Clear braces offer an alternative.
Clear braces are a great middle ground between traditional braces and clear aligners, which do not have wires or brackets and fit over the teeth much like plastic retainers. While it is possible to straighten teeth with aligners, they are not the right choice for all patients and cannot correct severe malocclusions and other specific issues. Speak to your dentist about choosing clear braces if you wish to have the advantages of braces treatment but do not wish for your braces to be too noticeable.
If you are excited about the idea of getting clear braces, you may assume that they will remain the same color for as long as you wear braces. Clear braces' brackets are typically made of ceramic or porcelain material, and when you first get them, they will look pristine — but certain aspects of your daily life may discolor them. It is important to keep up with your oral hygiene and perhaps cut certain foods out of your diet that may discolor the clear brackets.
Flossing with braces is notoriously difficult, but it is worth it. Use a water flosser or a needle-and-thread flossing device to string the floss between your teeth. Similarly, brushing your teeth at least twice a day (especially after eating) will help your teeth and clear braces to remain as clean as possible.
Speak to your dentist about whether using certain types of toothpaste such as whitening pastes and rinses are appropriate during this time. Some clear brackets are not compatible with this type of toothpaste.
Perhaps the most common reason for clear bracket discoloration is patients refusing to avoid foods that stain or discolor them. While it is possible to change out the bands on clear brackets, the porcelain or ceramic bracket itself may be stained over time and eventually appear to be much darker than the tooth underneath.
Try to avoid tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, beets, red wine, soy sauce, and any other food that is known for staining. Foods that are artificially dyed may alter the color of clear braces as well. If it really bothers you not to be able to eat your favorite foods during the time your teeth are being straightened, you may wish to consider choosing another type of braces.
As with brushing and flossing, it is important to keep up with your regular dental cleanings. Many people are unaware of the fact that dentists and hygienists can clear around braces — usually, the wires are removed first and the dentist can check the teeth and perform a general exam as usual.
Do not delay your cleaning appointments or assume that you must wait until your braces are removed to see your general dentist again! Keeping your teeth clean and healthy can help them match the color of the clear brackets for as long as possible.
It is important to visit a licensed dentist to discuss your eligibility for braces before proceeding with any of the above types of braces. Your dentist will help you determine whether clear braces meet your needs. He or she can also assist you in maintaining a healthy smile while wearing these braces and ensuring that your teeth do not become discolored in contrast to the clear brackets.
Request an appointment here: https://sonorandesertdentistry.com or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at (480) 439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Clear Braces in Scottsdale, AZ.
Clear braces are a subtle alternative to traditional braces and provide a solution to similar orthodontic problems. The primary difference in the clear version of braces is that they are less noticeable. When you have metal braces, anyone who sees you smiling or talking notices the braces. If you want the less obvious version of…
You might be deciding between clear braces and metal braces. After all, you want to look good and feel good by fixing your misaligned teeth. Part of feeling good is aesthetics. If you want to feel good not only after you get braces but also while wearing them, you should consider clear braces for aesthetic…
While researching options for teeth straightening, many patients consider the use of clear braces instead of traditional metal braces. There are pros and cons to each option. Before making a decision, learning more about the differences between clear braces options and traditional teeth straightening can help patients decide which route works for their circumstances.Traditional metal…
As a clear braces dentist office in Scottsdale, we understand the value of a beautiful smile. When writing your New Year's resolutions, think about straightening your teeth. For many adults, this is something they have always wanted to do but never gotten around to. Whether the demands of kids and family life meant that they…
A teenage boy or girl who deals with a crooked smile or uneven bite could be able to use Invisalign® for teens as a corrective treatment. The adolescent and high schools years are often filled with social pressure and a desire for acceptance, and any problems or concerns with a teen’s smile could create self-confidence…
As a child’s mouth and teeth develop into adolescence, it may become apparent that there are problems with alignment or spacing. Invisalign® for teens presents an alternative to traditional metal braces but without sacrificing the quality of results of corrective treatment. The specifics of a teen’s condition may impact the eligibility of this alignment option,…