Affordable Clear Ceramic Braces in the Bronx, NY
Riverdale, Westchester, Yonkers & Kingsbridge
Nearly all adults or teens who require orthodontic work ask about clear options versus metal braces. At Schimmel Orthodontic Associates, we offer an array of clear and metal options. One of these is clear braces. It is important to note that clear braces are different than clear aligners. Clear braces combine the efficacy of metal braces and the discreet, nearly invisible appearance of clear aligners.
What are Clear Braces?
While some people use the term “clear braces” when talking about clear aligners such as Invisalign®, clear braces are different in that they are ceramic braces (to be technical). Clear braces work like traditional metal braces, but the brackets are porcelain or ceramic and are either clear or matched to the color of your teeth. The wires and elastics are also clear or color-matched to your teeth, making them less noticeable than their metal counterparts.
Schimmel Orthodontics is one of the few providers of ceramic braces in the Bronx. We offer these unique braces to patients who need extensive orthodontic correction but don’t want to wear metal braces. Ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal but more effective than aligners, giving many patients an option they otherwise would not have.
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Who Are Clear Ceramic Braces Best For?
Clear braces are an excellent choice for anyone with mild to moderate misalignment looking for discreet braces. They are best suited for people who are mature enough to practice good oral hygiene and be vigilant about changing their elastics as needed. If you select clear braces, you must also avoid certain foods and drinks that could stain the ceramic. Clear ceramic braces are also ideal for anyone with a metal sensitivity or allergy. Given the above, generally, we do not advise clear braces for young children.
Benefits of Clear Braces
In addition to being more discreet than metal braces, other potential advantages of clear braces include:
- Clear ceramic braces have smoother edges than metal ones, providing greater comfort and reducing the chance of cutting your lips or gums.
- Clear braces are easier to clean than metal braces. Their smoother surfaces make plaque and debris easier to reach with a toothbrush and floss.
- Clear braces provide a level of correction that aligner trays cannot offer and work faster than aligners.
So, if you’ve been putting off getting your teeth straightened because you visualize yourself with metal braces, rest assured there are other options. To learn more about ceramic braces and whether you are a good candidate, call Schimmel Orthodontic Associates office Phone Number(718) 548-4768 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Schimmel to learn more.
Clear Ceramic Braces FAQs
Clear ceramic braces work like traditional braces except the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic material and the wires or elastics are often matched to your tooth shade. Because the material blends with your teeth, they are less noticeable than metal braces. Just know they are more fragile than metal brackets and need careful care to avoid chipping or breakage.
Most patients wear ceramic braces for about 18 to 36 months depending on how complex their case is, how much bite correction is needed, and how well they take care of them. If your teeth alignment is mild and you follow instructions closely, treatment may finish closer to the shorter end of that range.
Yes they are great options for teens and adults who want an effective orthodontic treatment with fewer visual impacts than metal braces. The braces are best when dental growth is mostly done, because ceramic brackets are more fragile. Very young children whose jaw and teeth are still changing a lot might do better with metal braces until things are more stable.
The ceramic brackets themselves resist staining but the elastics (the little rubber ties) and ligatures often used with them can discolor from foods or drinks like coffee, tea, curry, tomato sauce or soda. Proper oral hygiene and replacing stained elastics at adjustment visits help keep the braces looking clean.
Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can break or crack ceramic brackets or bend wires. Brush after every meal, floss daily, use special floss threaders or water flossers to clean around and under the brackets. Visit every 6 weeks so I can adjust the braces, replace any stained elastics, and check the health of teeth and gums.
