ARE CLEAR BRACES & ALIGNERS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Throughout our lives, our bodies are constantly changing, including our teeth. If you’re struggling with alignment issues as an adult, there are several options that you can choose from when it comes to correcting crooked teeth or gaps. Here at Biltmore Commons Dental Care, we know how much a straight smile can boost confidence. But, we also know that the look of traditional metal braces is off-putting for most adults. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on clear braces and why they might be right for you. 

AN INFORMATIONAL GUIDE IF YOU’RE CONSIDERING CLEAR BRACES OR ALIGNERS

When people think of braces, they typically think of the metal brackets, bright-colored rubber bands, and metal wiring that are used to help align adolescents’ teeth. However, since the early 2000’s, orthodontists around the world have been offering clear braces, giving adults a more palatable opportunity to fix their overbites or tooth gaps. Because of this, doctors have seen an increase in the number of adults opting for corrective alignment treatments, knowing that their mouths won’t be equipped with a bunch of metal brackets and rubber bands. 

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE AN ORTHODONTIST?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends seeking out orthodontic care if you have: 

• Early or late baby teeth loss
• Crowded or misplaced teeth
• Protruding teeth
• Jaw shifts 
• An inability to close your lips
• Facial imbalance

You should also see an orthodontic specialist if you have or had unhealthy oral habits such as: 

• Sucking your thumb or fingers
• Grinding or clenching your teeth
• Biting of the cheek and tongue

The overall goal of visiting the orthodontist for this type of dental work done is to leave you with a stunning smile that makes you feel good about yourself. 

TYPES OF CLEAR BRACES & ALIGNERS

INVISALIGN

If you’re looking for the least noticeable option for fixing your crooked teeth or gap, Invisalign is a popular option. Throughout the course of your treatment, you’ll be given different clear aligner trays that shift your teeth into the correct position over time. This option is usually preferred with adults, but is not always right for each patient. That’s why your Phoenix orthodontist will consult with you to make sure you’re the right candidate and that an Invisalign schedule will suit you best. 

CLEAR BRACES

Similar to traditional braces, clear braces are either plastic or ceramic brackets attached to the surface of your teeth and then threaded with a metal wire. This treatment is common for people that require extensive aligning that can’t be done with Invisalign trays. This might include creating spaces for missing teeth, or it might just be an overall better option for you. Ceramic braces are also less painful than metal braces, and tend to be less irritating to the cheeks, lips, and tongue. 

However, there is some risk associated with the plastic or ceramic clear braces. Because they are made out of a hard material, they can cause damage to the inside of your upper teeth if your overbite is too big. In such a case, your orthodontist will likely put clear brackets on the top teeth only and give you metal brackets on the bottom. Consult with your orthodontist if this is a concern for you and they’ll work with you to give you the best smile you’ve ever had!

Aligning your teeth to give you a perfect smile is what we do here at Biltmore Commons Dental Care. We help people in Phoenix, AZ, and in the Biltmore are with all of their dental and orthodontic care.If you’re looking for the best solution from the best team of dentists, gives us a call at (602) 249-2227 to schedule your appointment today!