Although metal braces can easily close gaps and bring your child’s teeth into proper alignment, their striking appearance make many young patients wish for a less dramatic option. Clear braces offer patients the potential for excellent smile alignment results without having to live with the appearance of metal braces. These innovative braces utilize clear brackets and low-key wires to correct alignment abnormalities in nearly as little time as needed for traditional metal braces. Read on to learn more about clear braces to decide if this treatment option best suits your child’s needs.
Corrective Elements Used for Clear Braces
The brackets used for clear braces are made out of ceramic materials that are inherently brittle in relation to metal materials. As a result, the brackets cannot be removed and repositioned during the treatment period. The brackets attach to the front surface of the teeth and an archwire runs through the brackets to apply tension. The archwire connects to a ligature that holds the tension set by Dr. Nia. To correct bite issues, rubber bands attach between the brackets to pull the top and bottom jaw into the proper alignment.
Benefits of Choosing Clear Braces
Selecting clear braces over metal equivalents offer your child awesome benefits right away. Since the clear brackets blend in with the natural tooth color, your child can confidently go about their daily activities without worry. Your child can go to school, participate in clubs and play sports without feeling distracted by the presence of their braces.
Installation Process Breakdown
Upon utilizing x-rays and examinations to determine your child’s orthodontic needs, the clear brace installation process may begin. Dr. Nia will bond the clear brackets on the front of each tooth using a special adhesive compound. Once the brackets are in place, affixing and setting the archwire takes just moments. Throughout this process, your child’s Dr. Nia will thoroughly explain each step and offer plenty of reassurance.
Care and Appointment Requirements
Since clear brackets are prone to staining, your child must commit to completing a daily oral care routine at least twice a day. Maintaining a strict oral care routine will also help prevent cavities and stains on the teeth well into the future. Your child should brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes a session, and then floss and swish mouthwash afterward. Flossing with a water irrigation device can further improve oral care results and keep stains from setting in the brackets or teeth.
Since clear braces utilize ceramic brackets, your child will likely need to attend a few extra adjustment appointments to avoid overstressing the bracketry. Dr. Nia will slowly increase the tension on the wires to pull the teeth into alignment without breaking the ceramic brackets. Since the treatment process utilizes smaller adjustments, some patients find this option more comfortable than metal braces.
Acquiring Clear Braces to Improve Your Smile
If your child wants to acquire clear braces to align their teeth, schedule a consultation appointment with Nia Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics by calling (770) 479-9999. Dr. Nia will assess your child’s suitability for clear braces and present additional options for your consideration. Give us a call today to get started.
