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Clear Braces

what are clear braces?

Clear braces are an advanced and effective orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth while maintaining a more natural and discreet appearance. Unlike traditional metal braces, clear braces are made from transparent or tooth-colored materials that blend in with your natural teeth, making them far less noticeable when you smile or speak. This makes them a popular choice for adults and teenagers who want to improve their smile without the visible look of metal brackets.

Clear braces can successfully treat a wide range of orthodontic issues. These include crooked or misaligned teeth, overcrowding, gaps between teeth, overlapping teeth, and certain bite problems such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. By applying gentle, consistent pressure over time, clear braces gradually move your teeth into proper alignment, improving both the appearance and function of your smile.

Types of Clear Braces

Clear braces offer an effective way to straighten teeth while keeping your smile looking natural during treatment. Below are the most common types of clear orthodontic solutions available today.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made from clear or tooth-colored materials that blend naturally with the teeth, making them far less noticeable than metal braces. They work using the same mechanics as traditional braces, with brackets and wires gradually guiding teeth into proper alignment. Ceramic braces are effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crooked teeth, spacing, and bite problems.

These braces are especially popular among teenagers and adults who want a more aesthetic orthodontic option. While ceramic braces offer a discreet appearance, they do require extra care to prevent staining and damage. With proper oral hygiene and regular orthodontic visits, ceramic braces provide excellent results with a more natural look throughout treatment.

Clear Self-Ligating Braces

Clear self-ligating braces combine the aesthetic benefits of ceramic braces with the advanced technology of self-ligating systems. They use transparent or tooth-colored brackets with built-in clips instead of elastic bands, allowing smoother and more controlled tooth movement. This results in reduced friction, improved comfort, and often faster treatment progress.

These braces are an excellent choice for patients who want effective orthodontic treatment with minimal visibility. They are easier to clean than traditional ceramic braces and require fewer adjustments over time. Clear self-ligating braces provide a balance of performance, comfort, and appearance, making them a popular modern orthodontic solution.

Clear Aligners (Invisalign®-Style)

Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, transparent trays designed to gradually move teeth into alignment. They are removable, nearly invisible, and tailored specifically to each patient’s smile. Clear aligners use advanced digital planning to map out the entire treatment process, allowing patients to see expected results before treatment begins.

One of the biggest advantages of clear aligners is convenience. They can be removed while eating, brushing, and flossing, making it easier to maintain excellent oral hygiene. Clear aligners are ideal for mild to moderate orthodontic issues and are especially popular among adults seeking a discreet and flexible treatment option. When worn as directed, they provide predictable and effective results with minimal disruption to daily life.

Recovery and Outlook

How long do clear braces stay on?

On average, it takes between 12 months and 36 months to straighten your teeth with clear braces. In comparison, it takes an average of 20 months to complete treatment using metal braces. The length of treatment depends on the severity of misalignment.

What should I eat when wearing braces?

Your orthodontist will give you a list of foods to avoid as well as foods you can eat.

Foods to avoid with clear braces

  • Foods that you bite into (apples, carrots, corn on the cob).
  • Crunchy foods (chips, ice, popcorn).
  • Chewy or sticky foods (caramels, taffy, licorice, chewing gum).
  • Hard foods (hard candy, nuts).
  • Foods that stain (coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauce, soy sauce).

Foods to eat with clear braces

There are many foods you can still enjoy while wearing clear braces. Here are just a few examples:

Pasta.

  • Rice.
  • Soft breads.
  • Lunch meats.
  • Chicken.
  • Turkey.
  • Cheese.
  • Bananas.
  • Applesauce.
  • Yogurt.
  • Smoothies.
  • Gelatin.

How should I clean my teeth with braces?

Oral hygiene is always important, especially if you wear braces. Here are some tips for keeping your mouth clean and healthy:

  • Brush two to three times every day.
  • Floss between your teeth once a day. (Ask your orthodontist for product recommendations like floss threaders and interproximal brushes. These tools make it easier to clean around braces.)
  • Avoid dark-colored foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine and tomato-based sauces.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings.

Schedule A Consult :

CALL US AT (704) 790-6203

The first step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule a consultation. To schedule a consultation, please complete and submit the request form below.

Our scheduling coordinator will contact you soon to confirm your appointment. Please note this form is for requesting a consultation. If you need to cancel or reschedule an existing appointment, or if you require immediate attention, please contact our practice directly.

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