Over 4 million people in the U.S. are currently using orthodontia to achieve perfect, straight teeth—including 80% of teenagers. But while teenage girls might not mind a mouth full of metal and bright pink rubber bands, adults may want to be a little more discreet. Below we’ve compared three kinds of clear braces that can deliver results while being a minimal intrusion on your life so you can get started picking the option that’s best for you.
- Clear Brackets
Traditional metal braces are the least expensive kind, and they’re popular because they can can correct severe alignment problems. If this is the kind of braces you need, you should know that some metal braces offer clear brackets in the front of your mouth, placing less attention on your orthodontia.
Damon braces are one system to consider, as they also eliminate the need for elastic ties. Ties might give youngsters a chance to express themselves through their favorite colors, but adults might not be as keen on showing off. Elastics also cause uncomfortable pressure that Damon braces avoid. The system can also work more quickly than traditional braces.
- Clear Braces
This option is probably what people think of as “clear braces for teeth.” In these systems, both the brackets and wires are clear or tooth-colored so as to be less noticeable. Ceramic braces offer an advantage in that they’ll work more quickly than plastic options, but they can also stain if not properly cared for. They also won’t work as quickly as metal braces, and cost more.
- Clear Trays
If clear braces for teeth aren’t discreet enough, you may want to consider Invisalign. These trays are almost completely invisible, though they can create a slight lisp when you’re wearing them. The greatest advantage of these trays, however, is that they’re completely removable. You can take them out for meetings, presentations or special events, then pop them in again after.
They’re also removed for eating and brushing, so you can still eat popcorn and continue with your dental hygiene habits as usual. Just remember that they can’t work if you’re not wearing them, so removing them too often can slow down the straightening process.
Have you used any clear tooth straightening systems? What did you think of the types of braces you used? Share in the comments. Good references here: www.bullmooseorthodontics.com
