Why Clear Braces Are a Great Option

Clear braces are a great option for anyone who wants to straighten their teeth without compromising on aesthetics. This guide will provide an overview of what clear braces are, their advantages and disadvantages, and considerations when considering if they are right for you.

Overview of Clear Braces

Clear braces, or “invisible braces” are made with clear ceramic materials to blend in with your teeth. They fasten to the front surface of your teeth, and since they lack metal, the braces are nearly invisible when worn. This is what makes clear braces a popular orthodontic choice for adults and more self-aware teens. Depending on your needs and budget you can go with traditional metal wires/braces or opt for the newer, more discreet version of clear/invisible ones. We also offer our Skarin System braces in a clear option! Some offices charge more for clear braces, while others offer them at a similar cost to traditional braces.

Pros of Clear Braces

Clear braces offer a more subtle look than traditional metal braces, making them a popular choice for adults or teens with aesthetic concerns. In addition, clear braces are generally more comfortable than clear aligners since the orthodontist can adjust the force on the teeth with more variability and precision than aligners. This allows the orthodontist to ease your teeth into movement with gentle, lighter forces than aligners while still straightening teeth faster than aligners.

Cons of Clear Braces

Although clear braces are a great choice for those who want to straighten their teeth, there are a few potential drawbacks. In some cases, they can take a little bit longer than traditional metal braces to achieve results, as they require more frequent visits and adjustments due to possible breakage of the braces. Clear braces are made of a plastic or ceramic like substance, which makes them more prone to break than metal (metal braces can and do break too!). In addition, clear braces can be more expensive in some cases, but oftentimes, the cost is the same as regular braces. When discussing treatment options, Dr. Skarin will talk with you about treatment costs based on your needs.

Cost Benefit Analysis: Is it Worth the Price?

We understand cost is always a concern. No one wants to spend more than what they need to for the most effective treatment! That being said, most people continue to choose more expensive treatments even when others are cheaper and just as effective. For example, aligners are frequently more expensive than traditional braces, and clear braces are usually less expensive than aligners. Even so, people still choose aligners and they still choose traditional braces. The point being, yes, clear braces CAN be worth the price, assuming it fits YOUR NEEDS. Every option has very different features and limitations and it is part of Dr. Skarin’s job and expertise to work with you in figuring out the best treatment for YOU based on cost, lifestyle, and effectiveness of treatment.

Alternative Treatment Options for Straightening Teeth

Clear braces and invisible aligners are two orthodontic treatments used to adjust teeth alignments, but they differ in terms of design and appearance. Clear braces use brackets and wires to move teeth, while invisible aligners are made of clear plastic and fit over your teeth like a glove. Both can be effective ways to achieve straighter smiles.

In addition to clear aligners or braces, there are other ways to temporarily or permanently straighten teeth. Traditional metal braces use brackets and wires that are attached to your teeth and adjusted as needed, removable retainers work well for minor tooth adjustments, and our Skarin System braces technology is another option that moves teeth in a completely different way than braces or aligners. What sets Skarin braces apart is its ability to move each tooth independently, which means less pain and faster treatment for you! Ultimately though, the right option will depend on your orthodontic needs and overall goals with treatment.

How do clear braces work?

With clear braces, precise placement of the brackets is needed in order to pull the teeth into alignment. Made of ceramic, they attach to each tooth much like metal braces, connected with a wire and tightened over time to gently shift teeth into their desired position. Often times, a white arch wire is used, which helps to further blend the braces in with your teeth but comes with an increased price.

How to care for your clear braces

Caring for your clear braces is similar to caring for traditional metal braces. It is important to brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup and maintain good oral hygiene. However, there are a few additional steps you should take to keep your clear braces looking their best. Avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the brackets or wires. If you do consume these types of foods, be sure to brush and rinse your mouth thoroughly afterwards. Additionally, avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as they can stain the clear brackets. Finally, attend all scheduled appointments with Dr. Skarin to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.

Frequently asked questions about clear braces

If you are considering clear braces as an option for straightening your teeth, you may have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about clear braces:

1. How do clear braces work?

Clear braces work in the same way as traditional metal braces, using brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into the desired position. The difference is that the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored materials, making them less noticeable.

2. Are clear braces more expensive than metal braces?

Clear braces may be slightly more expensive than metal braces, but the cost can vary depending on the individual case and the orthodontist's fees.

3. How long does treatment with clear braces take?

The length of treatment with clear braces can vary depending on the severity of the case, but it typically takes about the same amount of time as treatment with traditional metal braces.

4. Are clear braces as effective as metal braces?

Yes, clear braces are just as effective as metal braces for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues.

5. Can I eat and drink normally with clear braces?

Yes, you can eat and drink normally with clear braces, but you should avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the brackets or wires.

6. Do clear braces require special care?

Caring for clear braces is similar to caring for traditional metal braces, but you should avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as they can stain the clear brackets.

If you are interested in getting clear braces or learning more about our patented clear Skarin System technology, please reach out to us to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Skarin. He will more than happy to answer any and all questions you may have about clear braces and whether or not they would be a good choice for your teeth, jaw, lifestyle, and budget. We look forward to meeting with you!