Clear braces are an effective alternative to traditional metal or rhodium braces for teenagers and adults. Palm Beach Orthodontics uses transparent braces to realign rotated teeth, close gaps between teeth, and reduce overcrowding. Transparent braces are more discreet than metal braces, making them a good option for patients who are concerned about their appearance during treatment. Here ismore information about these braces and whether they are right for you:
Am I a Candidate for Clear Braces?
We use clear braces for patients with overlapping, spacing, and rotated teeth. Clear brackets offer similar discretion to clear aligners while treating more moderate cases of misalignment.
Our team may recommend addressing pre-existing oral health conditions before beginning your braces treatment. Visit your dentist to repair cavities, infections, and tartar buildup that weaken your teeth and gums. Getting braces is also a good reason to stop smoking. Smoking can cause gum disease and mouth cancers, and may discolor your teeth during treatment and lengthen your treatment plan.
How Long Will I Need Braces For?
The duration of your treatment depends on factors like age, your case’s complexity, and your overall health. Standard treatment times range from one to two years. Patients with underlying conditions like diabetes may have a weakened immune system and healing process, extending the treatment period. Periodontal disease, gum recession, and missing teeth can also affect your treatment plan. Identifying and addressing current conditions before getting your braces may improve your oral health and speed up your treatment. Your teeth and gums should be strong and healthy before the treatment begins to avoid damaging them.
How Do Transparent Braces Work?
Once Dr. Angela completes her initial evaluation of your case, she will go over the treatment plan and expected results in detail. The orthodontists will bond the clear ceramic brackets to your teeth with dental composite. A wire is then added that bridges each bracket and helps the teeth move over time. Transparent braces work by slowly moving your teeth into proper positions throughout your treatment. This is done by tightening or adjusting the shape of the wires every few months. If you must miss an appointment, let us know ahead of time so that we can reschedule your adjustment as quickly as possible. Missing these appointments could result in longer treatment times.
How Should I Clean My Braces?
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush two to three times a day to remove plaque and debris after you eat. You can also use an electric toothbrush and water pick on gentle settings. Look for floss picks and bristle brushes made specifically for braces at your local grocery store or pharmacy. These tools are gentle on your braces and effectively remove trapped food. Bristle tools are useful for reaching underneath the wire, and picks are good at removing food stuck between your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with warm water after eating also helps to dislodge stubborn particles.
Do I Have To Change My Diet?
While you are wearing braces, you should avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, or sticky. Instead of chewing on ice cubes, hold the ice in your mouth to let it melt naturally. Foods like popcorn and nuts can get stuck beneath the wire and around your braces, damaging the metal and ceramic components. If you have any dietary concerns, such as allergies or current nutritional plans, Dr. Angela will recommend braces-safe food alternatives.
What Happens After My Braces Are Removed?
Once your treatment is complete, you will need to wear a retainer at nighttime only, for life! Teeth will always want to shift back into their original position. Retainers are removable dental devices that keep your teeth in their new placements.
Clean your retainer after every use. Use lukewarm water with an approved dental cleaner. A soft bristle toothbrush will gently clean your retainer without scratching or damaging it.
A fixed lingual wire is recommended for patients who have moderate-to-severe cases of misalignment. Fixed lingual wires are a semi-permanent devices that are placed on the backsides of your teeth to hold them in place, they act as a cast to strengthen the bone after orthodontic treatment. Just like braces, these retainers have a wire that is glued into place to keep your teeth in alignment.
Schedule an Appointment With an Orthodontist
At Palm Beach Orthodontics, we offer a variety of orthodontic services for adults and teenagers. The types of braces that we offer include transparent braces, clear aligners, and metal rhodium braces. Self-ligating braces are similar to metal braces, but they don’t require the use of elastic bands. During a consultation appointment, our team will help you decide which type of treatment is right for your case. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.