Clear braces are an exciting orthodontic option for patients of any age; we’re proud to offer clear brackets to any of our qualified patients. Instead of using dark metal brackets and wires made from silver or titanium that stand out when you smile, clear braces uses clear materials that blend in with your smile.
At Macdonald Orthodontics, we love finding new treatments and technologies of the highest quality for our patients. Clear braces are a high-tech option that will keep you smiling throughout your treatment.
What Are Clarity Clear Braces?
Clarity was developed by 3M, the same company that invented many products Americans use every day, such as Post-it Notes—and more recently, healthcare products, including a next-generation stethoscope.
The brackets and other components of Clarity are designed smaller than traditional bracing components. That makes them more comfortable for you and more difficult for others to see. They won’t stand out like metal braces—so they’re perfect for busy teens and adults.
Like traditional braces, clear brackets will give you straighter teeth, but they may take less time than metal braces. Plus, the softer materials will feel more comfortable during your treatment.
What Is the Clear Braces Process?
You’ll schedule an initial consultation to find out if you’re a good candidate for braces or a different option. If braces are a good option for you, then clear braces usually will meet your needs, as well.
Here are the general three steps of treatment:
1. The Consultation
We’ll give you a professional exam to check for any issues that could jeopardize your treatment. This can include dental x-rays and photos.
If you give us the okay to move forward with a treatment option, we may also take digital impressions of your teeth using high-tech scanners (instead of messy impression material).
We’re happy to answer any questions about the treatment plan itself and financial considerations. We like to spend extra time making you feel comfortable to ask.
2. Getting Braces
When you get your braces, be ready for an appointment of one to two hours. We’ll bond the comfortable brackets to your teeth, curing the bonding material with light.
Your orthodontist will place an archwire through the brackets, which will start to gradually move your teeth to better positions.
3. Adjustment Appointments
We’ll schedule short follow-up appointments with you every four to eight weeks. We’ll check your progress and adjust your archwires to help you get a straighter smile as fast as possible.
How Do Clear Braces Work?
The most exciting thing about clear braces is that the brackets are clear. Plus, they’re smaller than traditional brackets. This means they’re unobtrusive, staying out of the way.
The clear brackets blend in with your natural tooth color. It’ll be more exciting to smile and talk throughout the treatment process because the brackets won’t stand out like traditional braces.
How Do Clear Braces Compare to Other Orthodontic Solutions?
We offer several orthodontic solutions, and we believe in all of them. We’ll tell you about the best features of each and help you come to a good decision for your needs.
Here are some of the advantages of Clarity clear braces:
- Always Working: Since you don’t take them out for meals (or ever), Clarity gives you the maximum amount of time moving your teeth during treatment.
- Look Great: The translucent brackets blend in, while also resisting stains.
- Easy Maintenance: You don’t need to keep track of extra aligners or schedules. You just wear your braces and brush and floss. Easy.
- Comfortable: The edges of Clarity brackets are smooth, rounded, and comfortable, reducing potential pain and irritation on your cheeks and lips.
You might also be able to finish your treatment more quickly with Clarity than with traditional braces!
Are Clear Braces Right for You?
During your initial consultation, we may find that Invisalign clear aligners are not right for your needs. You (or a family member) might not want to manage or keep track of removable aligners for several months.
Some bite issues and tooth issues are also outside the scope of Invisalign’s abilities. Plus, Invisalign is not meant to be used on younger children.
Clear braces then become a great option, because the clear brackets are still almost invisible—great for your smile and confidence at school or work—but the traditional archwire design can move your teeth in ways that clear aligners cannot.
Plus, clear brackets help patients of all ages to keep their teeth clean throughout the treatment. The healthier we can keep your teeth and gums, the better your smile will be in the long term.
Clear Braces FAQ
Do Children and Teens Like Clear Braces?
Yes! Younger patients can mix and match 20 available colors of bands to create their unique style.
Are Clear Braces Vulnerable to Stains?
Do non-metal materials get stained? Not in general—not for many years now. But you can still benefit from drinking less coffee, tea, or red wine to avoid staining your teeth or the adhesive under the braces.
Are Clear Braces Expensive?
We work with each patient to show you affordable options to fit your budget. The cost of clear braces is comparable to metal braces. We’ll break down the prices for you in your initial consultation. We’re happy to build a payment plan, help you understand your insurance, and more.
Make an Appointment for Clear Braces at Macdonald Orthodontics Today!
If you want straighter teeth, the first step is an orthodontic consultation. We’ll recommend options that will give you a great-looking smile within your timeframe and budget.
There’s no obligation after the first appointment—no pressure. So, schedule it now to get a step closer to your dream smile as soon as you can.