Are There Clear Braces Options?

clear braces Bakersfield, CA

Clear braces are the way to go when wanting discreet teeth straightening. These devices make it possible to straighten teeth without having metal wires and brackets fill the mouth. Braces improve the alignment of teeth by gradually pushing them to a better alignment. Treatment times with clear braces are typically somewhere between one to two years.

The different types of clear braces

The term "clear braces" is often used to describe teeth straightening appliances that are hardly visible when worn. The two main types are:

1. Ceramic braces

These share a similar design with conventional metal braces, but they blend in with the patient's teeth a lot better. The metal brackets and wires that come with traditional braces are swapped with tooth-colored ceramic brackets and transparent wires. As a result, the patient gets an appliance that is virtually as effective as metal braces when it comes to straightening teeth but is difficult to notice in the wearer's mouth.

Like metal braces, ceramic braces are permanently fixed in place once installed by a dentist. Noteworthy facts about ceramic clear braces include:

  • Clear braces can be used to treat most of the orthodontic issues metal braces can be used to fix
  • Like metal braces, clear braces increase the patient's risk of tooth decay and gum disease
  • Ceramic braces do not irritate soft tissues in the mouth as much as metal braces because the materials are ceramic-based

2. Clear aligners

Clear aligners are removable plastic trays that are used to straighten teeth. These trays are transparent making them almost impossible to detect when worn, hence the clear braces name. Treatment with clear aligners involves getting a series of aligner trays at the beginning of treatment. These trays progressively push the patient's teeth towards better alignment. Each is worn for two weeks, which is the time it takes the tray to push the teeth to a position where the next set of aligners can take over.

Clear aligners are removable devices and that makes treatment more convenient for the patient. The aligners do not get in the way of meals or hinder the wearer's ability to clean their teeth. The person simply removes the aligners and reinserts them when they are done.  Other benefits of clear aligners include:

  • There is less of an adjustment period with clear aligners
  • Clear aligners sometimes lead to shorter treatment times
  • They only need to be worn for about 20 hours each day
  • They are easy to remove and insert
  • Aligners are the most discreet way to straighten teeth when it comes to clear braces

Lingual braces

There are not as common as clear braces, but they are less conspicuous than metal braces. Lingual braces are just like metal braces, but the wires and brackets are attached to the back of the patient's teeth instead of the front. As a result, lingual braces are not easily detected. However, they are the most uncomfortable type of braces which is why only a few patients decide to go this route.

Get started with clear braces!

Want to find out more about clear braces? Reach out today to get started. 

Request an appointment here: https://brimhalldentalgroup.com or call Brimhall Dental Group at (661) 249-1122 for an appointment in our Bakersfield office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

When Your Dentist May Recommend A Dental Bridge

Your dentist may recommend a dental bridge if your case needs it. Every patient has a different set of needs. Proper assessment allows the dentist to suggest the right dental replacement. Here are the details on when a dental bridge may become your dentist’s recommendation.Dentists often encourage their patients to stop consuming tobacco. Following this…

Exploring The Various Types Of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are an effective option for people missing teeth due to trauma, infection, or decay. They can prevent the teeth from shifting, a common side effect of missing teeth. They also restore normal oral function and appearance. Here are a few types of dental bridges a dentist might consider.A traditional dental bridge is the…

Everything You Need To Know About A Full Mouth Reconstruction

Full mouth reconstruction can restore the smile's functionality, appearance, and health even when multiple issues are at play. This treatment includes various dental procedures designed to address severe oral health concerns or extensive damage to the teeth, gums, and jaw. Often performed by a general dentist or prosthodontist, it delivers transformative results, helping patients achieve…

What Are The Different Types Of Dental Bridges

A dental bridge can fill your dental gap and restore your smile. Research shows that tooth loss is a common problem among adults. The dentist will discuss the different types of bridges with you on consultation day. Here are the different dental bridge types you should consider.There are no dental crowns necessary for this type…

Recent Posts

When Your Dentist May Recommend A Dental Bridge

When Your Dentist May Recommend A Dental Bridge

Your dentist may recommend a dental bridge if your case needs it. Every patient has a different set of needs. Proper assessment allows the dentist to suggest the right dental replacement. Here are the details on when a dental bridge may become your dentist’s recommendation.Dentists often encourage their patients to stop consuming tobacco. Following this…

Exploring The Various Types Of Dental Bridges

Exploring The Various Types Of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are an effective option for people missing teeth due to trauma, infection, or decay. They can prevent the teeth from shifting, a common side effect of missing teeth. They also restore normal oral function and appearance. Here are a few types of dental bridges a dentist might consider.A traditional dental bridge is the…