For a long time, anyone hoping for a straighter smile was limited to treatment options like bulky, uncomfortable, and restrictive metal braces. Fortunately, that’s no longer the case and patients today can safely choose from a variety of methods to give them a healthy, confident smile!
Modern technology and innovative techniques have made it easier than ever to straighten teeth and improve oral health. Even traditional braces have undergone a makeover, making them more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than ever before. These orthodontic staples are one of the best tools we have for correcting common issues, but what if you are looking for a more subtle treatment option?
Thomas Kovacs Orthodontics can help! We offer a wide range of treatment options, including Clarity Advanced braces. These clear braces can be the perfect solution for patients who need the strength and reliability of traditional braces but prefer a more discreet appearance. Keep reading below to learn more about what clear braces are, how they work, and how they can benefit your smile!
What is the difference between metal braces and Clarity clear braces?
Clear braces are sometimes referred to as ceramic braces, tooth-colored braces, or esthetic braces. When it comes to straightening teeth, they function in much the same way metal braces do. Brackets are affixed to the front of the teeth, and a wire is inserted. Using specific bends in this wire, we can provide different types of pressure on different teeth. It’s this gentle pressure that moves the teeth into more desirable positions over time.
The difference between metal braces and clear braces lies in the materials used. As the names suggest, metal braces are composed of metal brackets, while clear braces are made of either translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Clarity Advanced goes a step further, offering brackets that are small and durable in addition to being nearly invisible. These are designed to blend in with your natural tooth color and won’t stain during the treatment process.
That’s not all! Clarity has a soft-shaped design with smooth, rounded corners that offer a more comfortable experience than traditional braces. The brackets can be worn with regular wires throughout treatment. In addition, their soft-shaped design and smooth, rounded corners prove more comfortable than traditional braces. The brackets can be worn with normal wires or paired with clear, white, gold, or tooth-colored wires and ties for a beautifully discreet look.
For patients who aren’t suited to removable appliances like Invisalign aligners, clear braces can be the next best thing! Let’s take a look at some of the other differences between metal and clear braces.
Durability
Metal braces have a long-running track record of durability and strength. Clear braces share this to a certain extent, but they’re made from a different material that can be slightly more fragile. That makes it easier for the brackets to chip or cracks. Metal braces are also able to tolerate more pressure than clear braces, so if you have severe orthodontic issues that need to be corrected, clear braces may not be the best option.
Additionally, the adjustments we have to make to move your teeth need to be slightly smaller with clear braces. This can sometimes add a little extra time to the treatment process. That being said, metal and clear braces work on the same principles and they tend to be equally effective for the most part.
Staining
Many patients interested in clear braces worry that the brackets will stain, but that hasn’t been an issue for a long time. It’s important to note that the adhesive we use to attach the brackets to the teeth can still stain, and so can the clear elastic ties we use to hold the wires on. Over time, this can give the impression of discoloration. We used to advise patients in clear braces to avoid things like coffee, tea, and red wine to reduce the risk of staining, but this is no longer necessary since we put new elastics on at every adjustment appointment. As long as you have a good oral hygiene routine, you shouldn’t have to give up your morning coffee or weekend wine!
Affordability
We are committed to ensuring all patients have access to the orthodontic care they need by offering affordable treatment options and a range of payment options. While clear braces and metal braces tend to be comparative in cost, clear brackets can sometimes be a bit more of an investment since their placement and removal is more sensitive and may require more time. Adjustments will sometimes be more complex as well. While treatment fees will vary depending on the specifics of your particular treatment plan, we’ll do everything we can to accommodate your budget.
Could clear braces be the right choice for you?
When you schedule your free consultation with us, Dr. Kovacs will perform a complete orthodontic examination. We’ll also take digital photographs and x-rays of your teeth to help him better understand what’s happening above and below the surface of your gums. This will give him everything he needs for a diagnosis and will allow him to determine which treatment option would be best for you. Most patients with common orthodontic issues will be a good fit for clear braces.
Clarity braces are the clear choice at Thomas Kovacs Orthodontics
For older teen or adult patients who want the benefits of metal braces without standing out, clear braces can be an excellent alternative! Would you like to learn more about all the benefits Clarity braces have to offer? Get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Kovacs and take the first step towards the confident smile you’ve always wanted!