Clear Braces
One of the main purposes for visiting a dentist after experiencing pain is the “aesthetic” reason. Having a nice smile with aligned and harmonious teeth is important because it improves self-esteem and self-confidence. But how can we get perfectly aligned teeth? Well, the use of orthodontic appliances such as braces are essential to solve appearance problems, with transparent “braces” the most used lately.
1. What are Clear Braces?
These orthodontic appliances are used to straighten teeth that are misaligned, crooked, or in a bad position. These braces use the same mechanism as conventional metal braces as they apply a constant force to bring the teeth in an unwanted position to their proper place.
The difference is that transparent braces are made of materials with white, transparent or even pale colors very similar to the teeth, giving it a more aesthetic and subtle appearance.
2. When to use braces?
Both metal and clear brackets, regardless of the type of material they are made of, are used in the following cases as described by the American Dental Association (ADA):
- Correction of a deficient bite: when both jaws do not fit together properly.
- Correction of malocclusion: Including those with overlapping and crooked teeth
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High aesthetics:
These types of braces are considered the most aesthetic orthodontic treatments as they have a similar color to the teeth. Transparent braces made of sapphire are the most aesthetic of the entire group, being virtually imperceptible to the eye. They are recommended for patients for whom aesthetics is paramount.
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Effective results:
The use of this type brings results just as effective as traditional metal braces.
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Fewer injuries:
They are not metallic and have soft edges, which reduces injuries to the cheeks and nearby tissue – something usually caused by metal braces.
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Avoid metal allergies:
As they are made of other types of materials, this type of orthodontic braces reduces the occurrence of allergies in patients who cannot tolerate metal.
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Sapphire braces
Besides being one of the most aesthetic, they have other advantages. They do not change color with the passage of time despite the fact that they consume more energy than other types when imbibing coffee, tea, wine, etc. On the other hand, due to their smooth composition, they prevent or reduce the accumulation of bacterial plaque and do not cause allergies as they are made of a biocompatible material. They are especially desirable for patients allergic to metal.
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Ceramic braces
This type has a tendency to darken. When compared to metal brackets, they are more fragile, larger in size, and cannot exert the same force on the teeth because. Plus, they are more “delicate” and have a tendency to break; therefore, the force applied to move a tooth has to be lower..
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Resin braces:
Also called polycarbonate brackets, despite being aesthetic, they have the disadvantage of changing color or pigment as well as being able to break; however in terms of cost, they are one of the most economical.
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Lingual braces:
This type is glued to the lingual (back) part of the teeth. They are not visible to the naked eye; however, they are more expensive due to the custom manufacturing as compared to the other types of clear braces..
5. Contact Us
Our specialists at Channel Island Family Dental seek to give you back a more harmonious smile and determine the best treatment for your individual case.
If you have any questions about this or other topics, contact us at Channel Island Family Dental and on our Facebook page. At Channel Island Family Dental, we will be attentive to your needs and make a timely diagnosis. In addition, our dentists in Newbury Park will guide you to the best treatment to give you back your best smile.