Every day we are treating more adult patients – a trend that we love because it is never too late to get the smile you deserve. But we know that our adult patients may not want to draw attention to their orthodontic treatment so they are looking for more discreet treatment options.
At Westwalk Orthodontic Group, we offer clear ceramic braces and clear aligners at both our Norwalk and Westport offices.
Norwalk Orthodontic treatment is for everyone, not just adolescents and teens!
There are some adults who never received orthodontic treatment during their childhood who now want to explore how they can correct crowding or spacing issues. Other adults, may have received treatment, but weren’t the best at wearing their retainer and now have a smile that has shifted. Whatever the reason you’ve chosen orthodontic treatment, our goal is the same – to make sure you receive exceptional treatment that ends in an incredible result.
Metal Brackets Braces Norwalk
We know that because many of our patients now are adults, more cosmetically pleasing treatment options are important. Our clear ceramic braces are an excellent choice, not just for our adult patients, but for patients of all ages.
How Have Technological Advances Improved Braces?
Technological advances have made braces smaller and more efficient than ever before. With ceramic braces, the material is much less brittle than previous ceramic braces, leading to less breakage than before. Additionally, the ceramic is even more aesthetic, allowing it to blend in much better with a patient’s natural tooth color.
Are clear braces really as effective as metal braces?
Yes! Technology has advanced so much, and today’s clear braces can work just as efficiently and effectively as metal brackets braces Norwalk.
The braces may be clear, but won’t the wires still be visible?
No – in our Norwalk and Westport offices, we use white wires for all patients who opt for clear braces. This results in an even more discreet look. While there are currently no clear wires, we hope this may be a development in the near future.
Why do some patients have clear braces on their top teeth and metal braces on their bottom teeth?
This is sometimes done to protect the patient’s smile. The ceramic material the brackets are made out of is harder than that of your teeth’s enamel. In patients who have bites that result in the upper teeth coming into contact with the lower braces, there can be erosion of the enamel on the upper tooth. In order to avoid this, we place the ceramic braces on the upper teeth so that patients can enjoy the discreteness of them, and metal braces on the less-visible lower teeth.
What Are The Benefits Of Clear Braces?
The most obvious benefit to clear braces is the discrete nature in which you can straighten your smile. We know that sometimes our patients don’t want to draw even more attention to themselves while in treatment, and our ceramic braces can help you get the smile you deserve without any unwanted attention.
But more than that, you’ll be set up for a lifetime of improved dental health. Abnormal bites and misaligned teeth can create a host of problems that can have you in and out of your dentist’s office far too frequently. A straighter smile is a healthier smile because it is easier to keep clean. Likewise, a properly aligned bite can ensure an even amount of pressure is placed, preventing chips, breakage, and jaw pain. A proper bite can also slow the process of bone or gum loss in patients who may have underlying periodontal issues.
Types of Braces Treatment
One of our favorite benefits of orthodontic treatment is the increased confidence we see our patients infused with when their braces are removed. Our patients are proud to show off their smiles and greet the world much more confidently than ever before.
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of clear braces?
The main disadvantage of clear braces is that they are not as durable as their stainless steel counterparts. Clear braces are a great option for many patients because they are discreet due to the materials used in their manufacture. Please consult with an orthodontist about the specifics of what you should avoid during treatment with clear braces.
How do I clean my clear braces?
Cleaning your clear braces requires the same level of attention that traditional metal braces. Please use your soft-bristled toothbrush to continue cleaning your teeth and place it at a 45-degree angle to clean around your clear ceramic brackets and remove any food particles to minimize the risk of tooth decay and keep your braces clean.
Is it hard to keep clear braces clean?
Not really. Keeping your clear braces clean requires a combination of two factors. First, you’ll have to maintain good oral hygiene habits and brush your teeth after every meal. It would also help to use an interdental brush and dental floss. Second, your choice of food and drinks will also greatly impact how clean your clear braces are.
How much longer do clear braces take?
Clear braces don’t necessarily take longer than traditional metal braces. On average, your treatment with braces might take anywhere from 18 to 36 months. Please pay close attention and follow your orthodontist’s instructions to avoid orthodontic emergencies and prevent unwanted setbacks and delays.
Can clear braces be used to treat an overbite?
Yes. Clear braces can take care of most of the orthodontic problems we see at the office. You’ll have to consult with a qualified and board-certified orthodontist to know if you should undergo treatment with clear braces.
Do clear braces get stained?
No. The composite ceramic materials used for clear braces won’t become stained with your food or drinks. However, you should be careful about what happens after you remove your braces. Some patients consider their teeth stained because the part under the brackets won’t be as dark as the rest of their teeth. Think of it as a tan mark. Talk to your orthodontist about this and how you can prevent it.
What are clear braces made with?
Instead of stainless steel, clear braces use a composite ceramic material pioneered by NASA and later introduced to the field of orthodontics in the 80s. This material more closely resembles patients’ natural tooth color, which is more discreet than conventional metal braces.
