Do clear braces take longer than traditional braces?

Your teeth can be straightened with a type of orthodontic therapy called clear braces. They can fix orthodontic problems, including overlapping, gapped, crowded, and crooked teeth. Clear braces are discreet and less noticeable than traditional braces. For adults and teenagers, many orthodontists provide clear braces.

What are clear braces?

Classic metal braces are comparable to clear aligners. However, they are less evident because they are composed of tooth-colored materials. The same orthodontic problems that metal braces may treat, such as overbites, underbites, crooked teeth, and crowding, can also be resolved with clear aligners.

Clear braces vs. Metal braces

Most likely, traditional metal braces come to mind when you hear the word "braces." These dental devices use stainless steel bands, brackets, and wires to straighten your teeth.

The operation of traditional metal braces and clear aligners is the same. However, they are made of frosted wires and ceramic brackets to match the color of your actual teeth. Because of this, clear braces are less noticeable than metal braces.

Metal braces are more durable than clear braces. Because of this, they are utilizing clear braces to straighten your teeth could take a little longer.

Notably, there are differences between clear orthodontic aligners (such as Invisalign® and ClearCorrect®) and clear bracket braces. While orthodontic aligners are removable plastic trays that snugly fit over your teeth, clear braces use elements comparable to metal braces (such as brackets and wires). Each has benefits and drawbacks. To determine which choice is best for you, consult a dentist or an orthodontist.

Clear bracket braces are more brittle than conventional metal braces. They break more frequently. Follow the dietary limitations suggested by your orthodontist to lower this risk.

Due to the materials utilized, clear braces are typically more expensive than metal ones. Remember that clear braces are more likely to break, so that you can pay more for repairs.

Why are clear braces used?

Orthodontists use clear braces to treat a variety of misalignment problems, such as:

• Malocclusion
• Overbites
• Underbites
• Crossbite (when your lower teeth sit outside your upper teeth)
• Open bites occur when the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap or come into contact
• Crowding
• Voids or gaps
• Overlapping

Clear braces increase your self-assurance and self-worth and enhance oral health and function. Your risk of developing cavities and gum disease can rise if your teeth are not correctly aligned. Tooth cleaning is more challenging when teeth are crowded or overlapping. Your likelihood of experiencing chewing problems is decreased by proper alignment.

How clear are braces placed?

You must first get an evaluation from a dentist or orthodontist. They will examine your dental health and determine whether you qualify for clear braces. The dentist must address severe tooth decay, gum disease, or gum recession. Placing braces on unhealthy teeth might result in many other dental issues.

Your dentist will likely send you to an orthodontist specializing in straightening teeth if they believe you are a candidate for clear braces.

Using a special dental cement, your orthodontist adheres the clear ceramic brackets to the front surfaces of your teeth. After placing the brackets, your orthodontist joins the brackets to a tooth-colored wire and secures the wire with metal bands on your back molars. Finally, they will add transparent elastics to your brackets to properly secure the wire.

After getting clear braces, you could feel a little sore and uncomfortable. These side effects are typical and should disappear in a couple of days. You can treat your symptoms in the interim by taking over-the-counter painkillers.

Additionally, it would help if you avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky meals because they can shatter or dislodge your ceramic brackets. You will receive a list of things to stay away from your orthodontist.

Benefits of Clear Braces

• Removable and comfortable
• Fewer trips to the dentist
• Improve your wellness and dental health

Risks related to Clear Braces

Compared to conventional metal braces, clear braces are more susceptible to stains. To lessen stains:

• Avoid foods and beverages with a dark tint, such as tomato sauce, coffee, tea, and red wine
• To reduce plaque and tartar, brush and floss every day
• Avoid smoking
• Schedule routine cleanings and examinations at the dentist

How long do clear braces stay on?

The degree of misalignment determines how long the treatment will last. On average, your teeth can be straightened using clear braces in 12 to 36 months. In contrast, the time needed to complete treatment with metal braces is typically 20 months.

How should I clean my teeth with braces?

Here are some pointers for maintaining a healthy and clean mouth: always practice good oral hygiene, especially if you have braces.

• Two to three times a day, brush your teeth.
• Every day, floss between your teeth. (Ask your orthodontist for product suggestions, including interproximal brushes and floss threaders).
• Avoid dark-colored foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and sauces made with tomatoes.
• Frequently see the dentist for examinations and cleanings.

Conclusion

Braces of transparent material function similarly to metal ones but are less noticeable. Clear braces are only suitable for some, even though they can treat various orthodontic problems. Make an appointment for a consultation with a dentist or orthodontist to determine which treatment choices are best for you.

To know more about clear braces take and traditional braces, Contact your Pinole Orthodontics, Dr. Hoss Abar, DDS, MSD at Abar Orthodontics.

Resource:

Clear Aligners Vs. Braces

This media/content or any other on this website does not prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. Therefore, we highly recommend that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition.