Tooth Coloured Braces: An Ultimate Guide
If you’re looking for a way to straighten your teeth but don’t want to go the traditional metal braces route, then tooth coloured braces may be the solution for you. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about it, from what they are and how they work to their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the cost and maintenance involved.
What Are Tooth Coloured Braces?
Tooth-coloured braces, also known as clear braces, are an orthodontic treatment that uses clear or tooth-coloured brackets and wires to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, they blend in with the natural colour of your teeth, making them a popular choice among adults and teenagers who don’t want to draw attention to their braces.
How Do Tooth-Coloured Braces Work?
It works in the same way as traditional metal braces but with clear or tooth-coloured brackets and wires. The braces apply pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the correct position. Depending on the severity of your case, treatment can take anywhere from six months to two years.
Advantages of Tooth-Coloured Braces
There are several advantages to choosing it over traditional metal braces, including:
- Aesthetics: It blends in with your teeth, making them less noticeable than metal braces.
- Comfort: The brackets and wires are made of smooth ceramic material that is less irritating to the cheeks and gums than traditional metal braces.
- Effective: They are just as effective as traditional metal braces at straightening teeth.
Disadvantages of Tooth Coloured Braces
While they have many advantages, they also have a few disadvantages, including:
- Cost: It can be more expensive than traditional metal braces.
- Durability: The ceramic material used in tooth coloured braces is more brittle than metal, making them more prone to damage and breakage.
- Maintenance: It requires more maintenance and cleaning than traditional metal braces to avoid staining.
Types of Tooth Coloured Braces
There are three types of this available, including:
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of tooth-coloured ceramic material and work in the same way as traditional metal braces. They are more expensive than metal braces but are less noticeable.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are attached to the back of your teeth instead of the front, making them completely invisible. They are custom-made to fit your teeth and are an excellent option for people who don’t want visible braces.
Invisalign
Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to gradually move your teeth into the correct position. The aligners are removable, making them a popular option for people who want to be able to take their braces out for eating and cleaning.
Cost of Tooth Coloured Braces
The cost of it varies depending on the type of braces you choose and the severity of your case. Ceramic braces can cost between $4,000 and $8,000, while lingual braces can cost between $8,000 and $10,000. Invisalign can cost between $3,000 and $8,000, depending on the length of treatment. It’s important to discuss the cost with your orthodontist and to check if your dental insurance will cover any of the cost.
Maintenance of Tooth Coloured Braces
To keep your it looking its best, it’s important to follow proper maintenance procedures. This includes:
- Brushing and flossing regularly to avoid staining and decay.
- Avoiding foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee and red wine.
- Visiting your orthodontist regularly for adjustments and cleanings.
It’s important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions to ensure your treatment is effective and your transparent braces remain in good condition.
Conclusion
Tooth coloured braces are an excellent option for people who want to straighten their teeth without the noticeable appearance of traditional metal braces. While they do have some disadvantages, such as cost and maintenance, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for many people. If you’re interested in this, speak to your orthodontist to see if they’re right for you.
