Dr Thanh-De Nguyen
DMD MSc, Orthodontist
Certified Specialist in Orthodontics
Braces and Invisalign in Montreal
Clear braces vs invisalign
Clear Braces Montreal
Wearing braces doesn’t imply you should wear highly noticeable metal brackets and wires. As a matter of fact, many of today’s braces are made from either clear or natural tooth colored materials which delivers an attractive, less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces.
Is there a difference between clear braces and clear aligners ?
Clear braces like the name implies are the same as traditional metal braces except that they are “clear colored”! Clear braces are a far less noticeable choice to traditional metal braces and provide patients with a very similar effective treatment.
Clear aligners have different features then clear braces. Clear aligners are pieces of hard plastic that are designed to fit into your mouth like a mouth piece, such as INVISALIGN. Clear aligners are great for patients requiring minor orthodontic treatment.
What are some advantages and disadvantages to clear braces ?
When choosing an orthodontic treatment, it is very essential to choose the right option for your needs and type of lifestyle. Clear braces are the number one alternative to traditional metal braces and your orthodontist will be able to assist you to determine whether they are the right treatment for you.
Some clear braces advantages:
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Appearance: Ceramic braces and clear braces are a better choice for esthetic purposes.They are far much less noticeable than conventional metal braces.
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Confidence: Patients choosing ceramic or clear braces feel more confident about their orthodontic treatments, people’s attention is turned towards their smiles instead of their braces.
Disadvantages to clear braces:
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Cost: Ceramic and clear braces are more expensive than traditional metal braces. Your orthodontist will most likely offer convenient payment plans to help manage the cost of your treatment. You can talk to your orthodontist first about all of your financial options.
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Discoloration: The elastic ties used with the clear or ceramic braces have the tendency to discolor slightly when you drink tea or coffee, or drink red wine, and eat certain foods or even if you are a smoker, that could also contribute to discoloration. Because we rarely use these elastic ties in our clinic, and since we have the new self-ligating clear braces (ceramic braces), we can avoid this disadvantage. Ask your orthodontist about clear braces maintenance.
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Treatment Time: The clear or ceramic braces orthodontic treatment may take longer than with traditional metal braces. If you are willing to exchange time for a better smile, then talk to your orthodontist for clear braces treatment length.