Clear or ceramic braces are designed to straighten teeth and correct bite issues, similar to traditional metal braces but with less prominence. Dr. Angela at Palm Beach Orthodontics offers clear braces as a treatment option for adults, teens, and children. When wearing these braces, patients are encouraged to follow proper oral hygiene and attend their scheduled appointments for optimal results. Here is more information about clear braces and how to maintain oral hygiene while wearing them:
What Are Clear Braces?
Clear braces are made of transparent or tooth-colored ceramic material, allowing them to blend better with your natural smile. They offer a more discreet alternative for individuals who prefer a less noticeable option than metal or self-ligating braces. The treatment duration varies depending on your unique case, whether you need to address a mild spacing concern or a complex overbite. On average, the alignment process takes 12 to 24 months to complete.
How Do I Maintain Oral Hygiene While Wearing Clear Braces?
Oral hygiene is key for preventing discoloration on teeth and braces, promoting a more aesthetic appearance during and after treatment. It also improves overall dental health and prevents problems like tooth decay, bad breath, white staining on your teeth, and gum disease. While in active orthodontic treatment, you will continue to get your regular dental cleanings, which are typically every three to six months as recommended by your dentist. Here are four tips for maintaining oral hygiene with ceramic braces:
1. Brush Regularly
Ceramic braces can trap food particles between brackets, wires, and teeth. Regular brushing helps remove these food remnants, preventing bacteria buildup and reducing the risk of bad breath and tooth decay. It is also key for maintaining gum health. Proper brushing techniques, including using a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean along the gumline, help prevent gum inflammation and periodontal disease. Aim to brush your teeth and braces at least twice a day, making sure to clean the backs, sides, and other hard-to-reach locations during the process.
2. Use Floss and Threaders
Flossing is a significant part of oral hygiene, especially for individuals with ceramic braces. It is generally recommended to floss once a day. While completing this task with braces may require slightly more time and effort than without braces, it helps you clean the tight spaces between your teeth to prevent cavities.
Traditional dental floss can be used with clear braces. It’s available in waxed and unwaxed varieties. Floss threaders are helpful tools for threading the strand under wires and between brackets. They have a stiff end that allows you to navigate the floss around braces, making it easier to clean between teeth.
3. Schedule and Attend Regular Check-ups
Scheduling and attending regular check-ups at Palm Beach Orthodontics promotes the success of your orthodontic treatment. It allows your orthodontist to examine your appliances and monitor your overall progress. They can assess how your teeth are moving, evaluate the alignment of your bite, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. During check-ups, your orthodontist may adjust or change your arch wires. This process makes sure that the braces apply the right amount of pressure to move your teeth effectively and efficiently.
Check-ups help detect potential issues or complications with your clear braces early. They enable your orthodontist to identify problems such as loose brackets, broken wires, or signs of gum inflammation. Identifying these issues allows for prompt intervention and resolution. Your orthodontist’s team may also need to remind you and demonstrate how to help clean around your brackets during your check-up. This is done to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and braces. Regular cleanings at your dentist’s office maintain oral hygiene, prevent cavities, and promote overall dental health throughout orthodontic treatment. Dr. Angela will determine how frequently you should schedule your check-ups.
4. Protect Your Braces
Be mindful of activities that may pose a risk to your ceramic braces. Such activities include biting your nails or pencils, chewing on ice, eating problem foods, or opening items with your teeth. Avoiding these habits helps protect your braces and prevents unnecessary damage that could compromise your oral hygiene. Follow any specific instructions your orthodontist provides regarding caring for your braces during physical activities. This may include wearing additional protective devices like an orthodontic mouthguard to protect against oral injuries. You can also keep your orthodontic kit nearby, especially during physical activities or travel. Include items such as orthodontic wax, dental floss, a small mirror, and contact information for your orthodontist in case of emergencies or issues with your braces.
Are Clear Braces Right for Me?
Clear braces can effectively treat issues like crowding, overlapping, spacing, and bite concerns, making them suitable for many orthodontic cases. They work well for individuals who follow a consistent oral care routine, including brushing and flossing daily. Our team can help you decide whether ceramic braces are a good fit or work with you to create an alternative orthodontic treatment plan.
Get Clear Braces at Palm Beach Orthodontics
Ceramic braces provide a subtle and effective solution for various orthodontic issues. Maintaining oral hygiene throughout the process helps support teeth and gum health and contributes to long-term dental health. At Palm Beach Orthodontics, we offer several treatment options for our patients, from ceramic and traditional braces to clear aligners like Invisalign and Spark. Schedule a personalized complimentary consultation with us today to learn more.