1136
S Delano Ct b202,
(312) 766-0995
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Pay OnlineWhen you look at photos of yourself, whether it’s on your social media profile or right after you take a photo with friends, do you wish your smile looked different? Maybe you’ve completely stopped showing your teeth because you’re embarrassed by their appearance? Regardless, you shouldn’t have to compromise your appearance just because you want to improve the appearance of your smile. With the help of Our Orthodontic Team, now you can have your cake and eat it too via clear ceramic orthodontics! Call our office today to get started!
Clear Braces – South Loop, IL
Discreet Orthodontics via Ceramics
What are Clear/Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic braces work much in the same way as their metal counterparts; the main difference is that they are made from clear, transparent materials as well as materials designed to blend in with your existing tooth enamel. Every component of your orthodontics, from the archwire to the elastics, can be manufactured from tooth-colored materials.
How Do They Compare to Traditional Metal Braces?
Metal braces tend to use nickel materials, which stand out significantly in your smile. If you have a child with braces or you had braces previously, you may be familiar with the bands orthodontists wrap around the individual brackets. While your child may find it fun to use multiple colors in their brackets, the last thing you’d want is for your braces to be even more noticeable to those around you if you’re an adult or teenager.
Additionally, because the brackets bonded to your teeth are clear, they will not stain like traditional metal braces. Instead the elastics themselves are more likely to stain. Thankfully, our doctors have all the tips necessary to prevent stains on your orthodontics, so you can enjoy a Chicago hot dog with mustard, exactly how it should be eaten!
How Do They Compare to Clear Aligners?
The biggest difference between ceramic braces and Clear Aligners is the fact that they are fixed appliances. Clear Aligners are removable, which means you’ll need to keep careful track of their use in order to avoid hiccups in your treatment. Since ceramic braces are fixed, you don’t have to worry about whether or not you’re wearing them long enough while still benefitting from their discreet attributes.
Are Clear/Ceramic Braces Right for Me?
Like traditional braces, ceramic braces are capable of solving many of the same orthodontic issues. Whether you have severely crowded, crooked or rotated teeth, or an uneven bite, ceramic braces can shift your teeth into a straighter, more attractive and healthier position. Additionally, ceramic braces are perfect for adults, teens, and children alike, so everyone can benefit from their use!
While ceramic braces are an ideal solution for improving the appearance of teeth, there could be a situation where a different orthodontic solution would work best for you. Our doctors always do what is right for the patient! Just keep in mind that ceramic braces may not be for everyone, which is why you should always get an assessment performed at our office first!
Clear Braces FAQs
Do Clear Braces Hurt?
To be honest, it’s very normal to experience soreness and pressure as your teeth begin to move into their ideal positions. Don’t let that stop you from pursuing a straighter smile, though! After all, the discomfort is only temporary, and it can easily be alleviated with cold compresses and OTC pain medication. Plus, clear braces sit more flush against the teeth, which makes them more comfortable than traditional braces.
Do Clear Braces Stain Easily?
Although clear braces are designed to be stain-resistant, they can discolor. That’s why we recommend using a straw when drinking dark-colored beverages, like tea and coffee, as well as steering clear of beets, dark chocolate, and marinara sauce. Instead, stick to mostly water and light-colored foods, like white fish, bananas, white rice, and plain yogurt.
Is There Anything I Can’t Eat with Clear Braces?
Speaking of what you should and shouldn’t eat, it’s important that you abide by the list of dietary restrictions we give you, like hard pretzels, caramel-filled candies, and whole apples. Although this can be inconvenient at times, it’s important to avoid crunchy and sticky foods like these to keep your risk of experiencing an orthodontic emergency low. Fortunately, there are far more foods you CAN eat with clear braces, including cottage cheese, cooked carrots, bananas, applesauce, and pasta.
Will I Need to Wear a Retainer After Clear Braces?
Yes! After all, without a retainer, your teeth can drift out of alignment (a phenomenon known as orthodontic relapse). This happens to upwards of 50% of patients in the years following their time with braces, so it’s important that you wear yours as directed to preserve the time and money you invested in straightening your teeth.
Can I Drink Coffee with Clear Braces?
Although you can drink coffee with clear braces, doing so can cause stubborn stains to surface. To prevent that from happening, we recommend always using a straw. When you’re done, rinse your mouth thoroughly with clean water and, about 20 minutes later, brush your teeth.
Is There Anyone Who Isn’t a Good Candidate for Clear Braces?
The short answer is “yes.” That’s why the initial consultation is so important! At this visit, our South Loop team will review your dental history, assess the complexity of your case, and complete a comprehensive oral exam. If we find cavities, gum disease, or any other oral health problems, then the necessary restorative care will need to be provided before we can begin straightening your teeth.
How Long Do Clear Braces Take?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer! Before we can provide you with an estimate of the length of your orthodontic treatment, we need to determine how complex your case is. Of course, how well you follow the guidelines we provide you with will also play a role. For example, if you don’t abide by the dietary restrictions or prioritize your progress visits, there’s a good chance that you’ll experience treatment plan delays.
