Clear/Ceramic Braces – Oklahoma City, OK
Subtle Orthodontics, Same Great Results
Desiring a straighter smile shouldn’t cause you to dread the treatment experience. Many patients who want to do something about their crooked teeth want help but would rather avoid the look of traditional, shiny metal. Fortunately, there is a solution – clear/ceramic braces in Oklahoma City. Dr. Ishani and our team at Casady Square Orthodontics are here to provide a more aesthetically pleasing alternative, so call us today to find out how you can get started.
Why Choose Casady Square Orthodontics for Clear/Ceramic Braces?
- Free Orthodontic Consultations
- Patients Can View Results Before Treatment Begins
- Personalized, One-on-One Time with an Orthodontist
What Are Clear/Ceramic Braces?
Clear/ceramic braces are similar to their traditional counterpart except they do not incorporate bright, shiny metal. Instead, this system uses clear ceramic to produce brackets and wires that blend in with your natural tooth color. This makes them more difficult for others to see. It also helps that these brackets tend to lay flat against the tooth enamel, reducing the amount of protrusion.
Working just the same as traditional braces, you can feel more confident in your daily appearance when opting for clear/ceramic appliances.
Benefits of Clear/Ceramic Braces
While the most obvious benefit of clear/ceramic braces is their more subtle appearance, there are other advantages you can expect to enjoy, such as:
- Improved durability, but you should be careful about the foods you eat or snack on, as some (i.e., hard candy, sticky foods) can damage your braces.
- Minimalist design that allows smaller brackets to lay flat against your tooth enamel.
- Reduced damage to your tooth enamel, as the bonding agent provides just enough adherence that it will not cause harm to the outermost layer of your teeth.
Are You a Good Candidate for Clear/Ceramic Braces?
Most individuals are considered good candidates for clear/ceramic braces in Oklahoma City; however, it is necessary that you undergo a thorough consultation with Dr. Ishani first. Older children and adults are more commonly recommended for this type of treatment simply because they provide more durability than traditional metal brackets and wires.
Also, depending on the type of problem you’re experiencing, it may be that regular braces are more suitable for fixing the issue and realigning your smile. No matter the type of braces you receive, you should also be free of tooth decay and gum disease before starting treatment.
Clear/Ceramic Braces FAQs
How much do clear/ceramic braces cost compared to metal braces?
Clear/ceramic braces in Oklahoma City are typically a little more costly than noticeable metal braces, and that’s due to the materials used for the treatment. Additionally, like other orthodontic treatments, it’s not likely that clear/ceramic braces will be covered by your dental or medical insurance. However, our team at Casady Square Orthodontics is happy to help maximize your savings every step of the way, whether that’s double-checking your insurance benefits or helping you find a payment plan that fits your budget.
How long does clear/ceramic braces treatment take compared to clear aligners?
The average treatment timeline for clear/ceramic braces is usually between a year and a half to three years, depending on the extensiveness of the orthodontic issues the patient faces. This is similar to that of metal braces. However, clear aligners typically only are worn for between 12 and 18 months. The primary difference is that clear aligner therapy isn’t designed to address more severe orthodontic concerns like bite problems, so it’s often recommended for more cosmetic-focused cases.
Are clear/ceramic braces durable?
Clear/ceramic braces are much less durable than metal braces. In fact, a 2016 study found that ceramic braces were twice as likely to break as metal braces. So, they’re not always the best option for teens that play sports or those at a much higher risk of breaking their appliances. However, they’re ideal for adults who are looking for a more convenient and discreet orthodontic treatment option.
Can clear braces become stained?
The good news is that clear braces don’t become stained easy, especially if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing your teeth every day, as well as visiting your dentist for your routine checkups and cleanings. Be mindful of smoking, consuming staining beverages and food, and don’t use whitening toothpaste. These tips will help your clear braces have a near-invisible effect!
Are clear braces different from clear aligners?
Clear aligners and clear braces are two different treatments and typically recommended in different scenarios. Our team at Casady Square Orthodontics often recommends clear/ceramic braces for older adults who want to straighten their teeth and correct more moderate to severe issues like bite problems. Their bracket-and-wire makeup allows them to handle these cases effectively and efficiently.
Clear aligners utilize smooth, discreet plastic trays to gently and strategically shift the teeth into their ideal positions without the need for brackets and archwires. This makes them more comfortable than braces, but not able to address all of the same concerns. The best way to learn whether clear aligners or clear braces are the better fit for you is to schedule a consultation with your orthodontist in Oklahoma City today!