Clear/Ceramic Braces in New England
Bringing Aesthetics & Reliability Together to Straighten Teeth
Who says you can’t have the best of both worlds? Clear/ceramic braces use the same reliable method to straighten teeth as traditional metal ones, but they have a discreet appearance similar to Invisalign. It’s a perfect option for teens and young adults who want to straighten their teeth without having to worry about people always noticing their treatment whenever they laugh, smile or eat. Could they be exactly what you or your child needs? To learn more and find out if clear and ceramic braces are right for you, give Simply Orthodontics a call today at one of our 12 orthodontic offices across New England.
Are Clear/Ceramic Braces the Right Treatment for Me?
Clear/ceramic braces still have brackets and wires, but they are made using see-through and tooth-colored materials that enable the appliance to basically disappear. This option is especially useful for teens, because while the braces are discreet, they are fixed within the mouth. Unlike Invisalign, a teen doesn’t have to worry about wearing these braces for the recommended amount of time or remembering to put them back in after eating. This makes them relatively low-maintenance for both patients and parents.
Clear/Ceramic Braces FAQs
How Can I Make Clear/Ceramic Braces More Affordable?
Good news: many dental insurance providers cover a portion of the cost of orthodontic treatment. So, if you are insured and are interested in straightening your teeth with clear/ceramic braces, you may not have to pay for it completely out-of-pocket. The best way to find out if that’s the case is by reading through the fine print on your plan or providing us with your membership information when you call to schedule your appointment.
It’s important that we mention here that dental insurance isn’t the only way to lower your out-of-pocket expenses! To start, you can break up the cost of your orthodontic treatment into smaller, more manageable chunks with CareCredit. You can also sign up for our Preferred Plan, which comes with benefits like a post-treatment take-home whitening kit for patients ages 16+.
Do Clear/Ceramic Braces Hurt?
From traditional braces to Invisalign, all orthodontic treatments come with some soreness and pressure. The silver lining is that the slight (and temporary!) discomfort means that your teeth are moving! Plus, you can ease your symptoms by sticking to soft foods, sipping on cool water, and taking OTC pain medication as directed.
How Long Do Clear/Ceramic Braces Take?
There are a few factors that will impact the length of your teeth-straightening journey with clear/ceramic braces, starting with the severity of your misalignment. During your consultation, we can review your dental history, complete a comprehensive oral exam, create your custom treatment plan, and provide you with a general timeline. We’ll also share what you can do to avoid a broken bracket, tooth decay, or anything else that can delay your treatment plan, like abiding by the dietary restrictions and brushing your teeth for two full minutes each morning and night.
Is There Anything I Can’t Eat with Clear/Ceramic Braces?
There are some foods that dramatically increase the chances of a bracket or wire breaking. A few examples include taffy, hard pretzels, caramel-filled candies, and tortilla chips. It’s best to fill your plate with nutrient-dense foods that have a softer consistency, like steamed carrots, cottage cheese, hard-boiled eggs, and plain yogurt.
Can I Drink Coffee with Clear/Ceramic Braces?
Yes, you can drink coffee throughout your time with clear/ceramic braces. It’s important to remember, however, that both the components of your braces and your teeth can stain. To prevent that from happening, we recommend taking a few precautions, like using a straw and rinsing your mouth with water when you’re done. It’s also important to keep additives like sugar to a minimum (this will help prevent tooth decay).