Clear braces provide a more discreet way to straighten teeth than metal braces. Clear braces are very similar to conventional metal braces, but instead of being made up of metal wires and brackets, tooth-colored brackets and transparent wires are used instead.
As a result, the patient gets a fixed appliance that is hardly visible in their mouth. It allows them to get their teeth straightened without having to deal with the hassle that comes with having a mouth full of metal, such as being teased.
Clear braces can be used to treat a variety of orthodontic issues like crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites and crossbites. Treatment times with clear braces are about the same as with metal braces: one to two years.
Below are some simple tips that help to maintain clear braces and keep the teeth healthy during treatment:
Like metal braces, clear braces are like a magnet for food particles. It is normal for bits of food to be stuck on them after meals. Brushing once or twice a day when wearing clear braces does not cut it. Dentists recommend brushing at least three times a day or after every meal. Dentists also recommend cleaning the mouth after drinking colored or sugar-rich beverages. Doing these things reduces the patient's risk of tooth decay.
Some foods and beverages have powerful coloring agents called tannins that can stain teeth. The tannins accumulate at areas where the brackets and wires connect with teeth, leading to the formation of stain lines. Brushing after consuming such foods helps to get rid of these tannins before they lead to permanent stains.
The brackets that come with clear braces should be cleaned at least twice each year by a dentist. It is best to go to the same dentist that installed the braces since they are familiar with its design and the patient's teeth.
Flossing helps to remove food particles from places a toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing daily gets rids of food particles that can lead to decay, discoloration, and, eventually, gum disease. Flossing is just as important as brushing when it comes to keeping these things at bay during clear braces treatment.
Rinsing the mouth with mouthwash a couple of times a day gets rid of food particles that brushing and flossing missed. It can provide teeth with essential minerals like fluoride and it kills oral bacteria that lead to tooth decay and bad breath. Rinsing with mouthwash is especially important when wearing clear braces because the brackets and wires can block the teeth from getting 100% cleaned.
Want to find out more about clear braces? Working with a general dentist to start treatment is the best place to start. Reach out today!
Request an appointment here: https://thechesterfielddentist.com or call Chesterfield Dentist at (804) 717-5100 for an appointment in our Chester office.
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