Clear braces are a popular choice for many patients who want to straighten their teeth without being self-conscious about the look of metal brackets and wires.
These ceramic teeth-straightening systems are familiar with traditional metal braces but are not as noticeable on the teeth. These clear brackets and tooth-colored wires help straighten teeth discreetly, increasing patient confidence.
Brackets:
The best invisalign orthodontist near me recommends clear braces because they are a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces. They use translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend in with your teeth, making them a popular choice for teens and adults.
The brackets are about the same size and shape as those used in metal braces but are less noticeable. The clear or white wires that connect the brackets also help to blend in with your teeth.
While clear braces are an excellent option for many people, they have some downsides. The main one is that over time they can discolor and become a shade of yellow or brown.
To prevent this from happening, brush and floss regularly after meals to remove any food residue that may have been left on your clear braces. Additionally, avoid smoking and beverages that contain colorants, such as coffee, wine, tomato sauces, and ketchup.
Elastics:
Elastics, or rubber bands, align and correct bite issues like an overbite or underbite. They’re strung between tiny hooks on your brackets or over small clear buttons attached to your teeth if you have clear aligners.
When worn consistently, these elastics will apply steady pressure to guide your teeth into their correct position. They’re also essential in helping your orthodontist achieve optimal tooth movement and treatment results.
They’re easy to remove and replace, which makes them a convenient addition to your braces care routine. To keep your clear braces stain-free, minimizing the amount of food and drink you consume that may cause stains on your elastic bands is essential.
Wires:
The wires in clear braces do the same thing that metal braces do: they apply a gradual amount of pressure to the teeth, slowly moving them into their desired positions. Your orthodontist will change these wires during your progress appointments, ensuring they work efficiently and effectively.
The brackets for clear braces are primarily made of a tooth-colored, non-porous ceramic material. This material is strong and camouflages the brackets on the teeth.
However, because of their microscopic pores, the ceramic material can pick up a small amount of color from some foods. Certain foods such as coffee, red wine, tomatoes, mustard, and turmeric can stain the brackets a little.
Brushing and Flossing:
Brushing and flossing are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums during orthodontic treatment. Food particles can build up on teeth and inside braces, turning into plaque that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
It’s also essential to clean the spaces between your teeth and braces, especially in areas where a toothbrush can’t reach. An excellent way to do this is by using a floss threader.
Your orthodontist will most likely supply you with this device, which makes it much easier to get those hard-to-reach spots between your teeth and braces! Try to floss at least once a day and be diligent about it.
However, according to this cosmetic dentist in Staten Island, you can also use small interdental brushes if flossing is too time-consuming for you.
Dental Cleanings:
To help maintain oral health, all clear braces patients should visit their dentist for routine teeth cleanings. These appointments are essential for removing stubborn plaque and tartar from their teeth and gums.
Dental cleanings also help prevent cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. In addition to this, they can detect signs of oral cancer or other oral health issues.
During these visits, the dental hygienist uses various dental tools to remove plaque and tartar. They also deep-brush their teeth and use a fluoride treatment.
