Innovation has revolutionized orthodontia, especially as it relates to the use of braces. There was a time when the only option for straightening your teeth was metal braces. Now, there are several options from which to choose. Adults often prefer clear braces because they’re more discreet than metal braces. Check out the information below to get a better understanding of clear braces. You’ll find out that sometimes metal braces are invisible.

Benefits of Invisible Braces

A key aspect of invisible braces is being able to receive the same benefits of metal braces without them being noticeable. If you’re a professional and you communicate a lot with others in the workplace, you might feel like they’re focusing on your braces instead of what you have to say. Invisible braces eliminate this issue. You can wear them without losing your confidence at work and in other areas of your life. Another benefit of clear braces is not having to deal with them breaking or loosening. While there have been improvements in technology for metal braces, minor issues still occur.

Cost Considerations

When choosing the type of braces that are best for you, one of the considerations will likely be cost. Generally speaking, metal braces tend to be cheaper than clear braces and plastic aligners. However, that’s starting to change as the market becomes more competitive. You can actually find clear braces that are relatively affordable. Instead of focusing too much on cost, consider the comfort level. You don’t want to wear braces that are too uncomfortable. That can happen with both metal and clear options. Fortunately, you can work with your orthodontist to figure out what’s best for you.

There are several types of invisible options, including Invisalign (plastic aligners), clear ceramic braces, and lingual braces. Below are details about each type.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a customized set of plastic aligners that are clear and removable. They’re made using 3D technology and serve the purpose of carefully and slowly shifting your teeth to the desired position. What’s great about Invisalign is you don’t have to deal with the nuisance of food getting stuck because you don’t wear the aligners while eating. Not everyone is a good candidate for Invisalign. If you have teeth that are severely misaligned or overcrowded, Invisalign probably won’t be a good choice for you.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces have a similar appearance to metal braces, except they’re clear. It’s perfect if you don’t necessarily mind having braces, but you don’t want the obvious appearance of metal braces. When someone is wearing ceramic braces, you can usually only tell by getting up close. In fact, from a distance you might not even be aware that they have braces. Ceramic braces are actually tooth-colored, which helps them to blend well with your teeth. It’s worth noting that they move your teeth faster than Invisalign.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are not as common as other options, but they are effective. These are braces that are positioned behind your teeth instead of in the front. As a result, they are unseen when you speak. Technically speaking, lingual braces are not invisible, they just cannot be seen because of where they’re located. In fact, lingual braces are actually metal. Although they start out being a bit uncomfortable to wear, you’ll get used to them after a while.

This is a great time to wear braces because there are so many different choices. By working with your San Antonio Orthodontist, you can find the type of braces that are just right for you. A beautiful smile is within reach!