Clear Braces
Clear (ceramic) braces function the same way as traditional (metal) braces to straighten misaligned teeth. The key difference is their discreet appearance. For many, we understand that maintaining a subtle look throughout the orthodontic journey is important. That’s why we offer clear braces, as well as clear aligners (Invisalign) for suitable candidates.
Who Is Suitable for Clear Braces?
Dental crowding:
When there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit. This can cause teeth to overlap.
Overbites:
The top teeth overlap the lower teeth.
Underbites:
The bottom teeth overlap the upper teeth.
Crossbites:
Some upper teeth fit behind lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
Open bite:
When the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed.
Gapped teeth:
When there is space between the teeth.
Clear Braces Procedure
At SuperSmile’s Orthodontist our procedure for clear braces involves:
Initial Appointment
You will meet with one of our friendly orthodontists, who will discuss your treatment goals with you and inspect your teeth to see if clear braces are the right treatment option for you.
Attach Brackets
Your orthodontist will attach the clear ceramic brackets to the surface of your teeth using dental cement.
Wire Attached
A tooth-coloured wire is attached to the brackets and secured with elastics.
Adjustments
There will be regular adjustment appointments sceduled every 6-8 weeks with your Orthodontist and our Oral Health Therapists. At every adjustment appointment we “tighten” your braces with new and fresh elastics. As you progress in your treatment we will change to stronger arch wires and/or make minor bends in the wires to keep things moving along.
Factors to Consider
- Retainers: As with traditional metal braces, you will need to wear clear removable retainers every night, after the braces have been removed and treatment is complete. Most patients will also have fixed wire retainers placed behind the teeth. Removable and fixed retainers prevent the teeth from moving back to their original position.
- Diet restrictions: Just like traditional braces, it is important to avoid chewy, hard and sticky foods that can break the brackets.
- Staining: The clear elastic bands that hold the arch wire into the bracket slot can be prone to staining from red-coloured sauces, wine, coffee and tea. The bands are changed at every appointment, every 6-8 weeks.
- Cost: Clear braces cost more than traditional braces due to the materials used.
Why Choose Clear Braces?
More Discreet Appearance
Clear braces are a great alternative to wire and metal braces because they have a discreet appearance and blend in more with your natural teeth.
Effective Orthodontic Treatment
Clear braces are an effective way to reposition misaligned teeth. They are able to fix a myriad of orthodontic issues, from mild to more complex cases. Clear braces treat bite issues, teeth crowding and misaligned bites.
Flexible
Most people can be flexible with their orthodontic treatment options. Some people choose to have clear braces on their upper teeth for cosmetic reasons, and then have wire and metal braces on their lower teeth.