Gainesville Clear Braces

Clear BracesGainesville, VA

Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, are orthodontic appliances that straighten teeth while being more aesthetically pleasing. They are a popular option due to their more discreet appearance. This is a great advantage to people who do not want to feel self-conscious about wearing visible wires and brackets.

Our team at Gainesville Orthodontics in Gainesville and the surrounding area can determine whether clear braces are right for your needs. These braces can help you improve your smile less noticeably. Call us today at 571-367-3390 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

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How Clear Braces Work

Clear braces move teeth the same way as traditional braces. However, they consist of different materials. While traditional braces utilize gray or silver metal brackets, clear braces consist of ceramic, porcelain, or plastic brackets. Patients with clear braces can also choose from silver, frosted, or white wires to make them even less noticeable.

Ceramic braces move teeth thanks to the archwires, which are connected by brackets to apply gentle, controlled forces to teeth. The periodontal ligament, which attaches the teeth to the bone, adjusts to the pressure by changing and remodeling. The side of teeth that receives pressure will have bone and ligament removed so the teeth can move, while the pulling side allows new bone, ligament, and cementum to grow and secure the new position.

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Clear Braces vs. Clear Aligners

Clear braces and clear aligners are both more aesthetically pleasing orthodontic treatment options. Clear aligners straighten teeth without brackets and wires. People with these appliances will wear a series of plastic trays that fit snugly over teeth and apply pressure to move teeth.

While clear aligners are removable, clear braces are not. We bond the brackets to the patient’s teeth, so there is no need to worry about losing or misplacing them. Since clear braces are not removable, patients do not need to worry about treatment compliance, unlike people with clear aligners.

Benefits of Clear Braces

The main benefit of clear braces is their discreet appearance. While metal brackets and wires can look distracting, clear braces are much less noticeable in person and virtually invisible in photos. This feature makes them a great option for teens and working adults who do not want to feel self-conscious while straightening their teeth.

The brackets in clear braces are tooth-colored or transparent, making them a more aesthetically pleasing orthodontic option. It is possible to customize them to a patient’s natural tooth color to blend in with the surrounding teeth. Clear braces may also be more comfortable than metal braces since the brackets have smooth, rounded edges that are less abrasive to the surrounding oral tissues.

Potential Drawbacks of Clear Braces

Clear braces have a more discreet appearance due to their light coloring, but they are also more susceptible to staining. While clear or tooth-colored brackets and archwires are stain-resistant, the rubber bands that connect the archwire to the brackets are not. Patients often choose white-colored rubber bands to blend in with their brackets. To avoid staining, we recommend maintaining a good dental hygiene routine and avoiding staining foods and beverages, including:

  • Coffee
  • Ketchup
  • Tea
  • Tomato Sauce

The bracket material of clear braces is also than metal braces. The material is more prone to chipping or breaking. Patients may have more adjustment appointments to fix broken brackets, which can increase the treatment length.

What To Expect After Getting Clear Braces

Once a patient receives their clear braces, it is normal to experience some pain or discomfort temporarily. This feeling should only last a few days after each adjustment. Some people may feel that their teeth are loosening. This is expected as the teeth are moving into alignment.

After getting braces, patients should expect to come back for follow-up appointments about every four to six weeks. These check-ups will allow our team to ensure that the patient’s teeth are adjusting properly and that the treatment progresses as planned. People with clear braces must brush their teeth twice each day and floss at least once, making sure to get between the wires.

Call Us Today

Clear braces match the color of natural teeth so you can straighten your teeth without disrupting your appearance. Our team at Gainesville Orthodontics can help you achieve the smile that you have always wanted. Call us today at 571-367-3390 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if one of my brackets breaks?

If a patient breaks a bracket, they should contact our team so we can address the problem. Do not touch or mess around with the braces. If a wire is also protruding, patients may cover it with orthodontic wax to prevent injuring their mouth tissues.

Who is a good candidate for clear braces?

Clear braces are a great alternative for people who want braces but do not want to wear visible braces components. Since clear braces are more delicate than metal braces, they may be best for adults or teens with already matured jaws. Our team will conduct a comprehensive examination to determine whether clear braces are right for a patient’s needs.

How much do ceramic braces cost

Ceramic braces may cost slightly more than traditional metal braces due to their materials. However, many patients believe the benefits outweigh the costs. Patients should contact their insurance provider for coverage information before seeking treatment.

How long will I have to wear clear braces?

The length of orthodontic treatment with clear braces will depend on a patient’s malocclusions. While it may vary for each patient, ceramic braces treatment may take longer than traditional braces since the materials are less durable. Patients should take the necessary precautions to prevent damaging or breaking their appliances.

How should I clean my clear braces??

Patients must clean their clear braces to keep them looking discreet. While the brackets of clear braces are stain-resistant, the elastic bands that hold the archwire to the brackets are not. People should brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to maintain their clean and clear braces.