Esthetic Braces in Coral Springs

• What Are Esthetic Braces?

These are braces that are made with clear material instead of metal. We use sapphire brackets because they do not stain. They work just like the traditional metal braces, only the clear brackets make them less noticeable on your teeth. The brackets are made from a clear sapphire stone material that allows the natural color of your teeth show through. On top of that, the wire that connects the brackets can be coated with a white coating so it further blends in with your teeth. 

In this way, your braces are camouflaged. When you talk, they are not noticeable at all, so they will not draw anyone's attention to them. Many adults like them because they are subtle, yet just as effective as traditional metal braces.

A lot of professionals who need to speak in front of an audience often choose esthetic braces because they don't want metal brackets to distract their audience. It is also a self-image issue because they feel more confident speaking in front of people if their braces are not so noticeable.

• How Do Esthetic Braces Work?

They work the same way as traditional metal braces. Each clear ceramic bracket is attached to each tooth and connected with a wire. Your dentist positions the brackets carefully so the position of your teeth can be manipulated in various directions to pull them into correct alignment. The braces stay on for the duration of the treatment which can last from 18 to 24 months on average, but it can be shorter or longer based on the condition of your teeth. Your dentist will tell you exactly how long your braces need to stay on. 

The wire that is used to connect the brackets is traditionally metal, but you have the option of a white-coated wire. This is an additional cost, but it makes your braces virtually invisible from a distance.

Braces can be uncomfortable when you first have them on, but over time, the discomfort will lessen. 

During your orthodontic treatment, you will have to follow extra oral hygiene rules to keep your teeth clean. The brackets can trap bits of food in their nooks and crannies, so brushing might need to take a little longer. Here at Smile Clinic of Coral Springs, every patient leaves with a toothbrush kit. We will also send you an email with instructions on how to care for your braces.

If at all possible, you should try to brush your teeth and braces after you eat something. Or, at least rinse your mouth with water to dislodge of the food particles that might have gotten stuck in your braces. You can floss with a floss threader, or super floss or clean below the wire with an interdental brush.

There are also certain types of foods that you need to avoid while you have braces. Some of these are:

- Crunchy foods like chips, raw carrots, apples

- Chewy foods like gum, toffee candy, granola bars, bagels

- Hard foods like nuts

- Acidic foods like citrus juices and vinaigrette salad dressings

If you have bad habits like nail biting or chewing on the ends of pencils, you need to stop because you can damage the sapphire brackets.

• Are Esthetic Braces Similar to Invisalign?

They are two very different products. The only similarity is that they are made from clear material. Invisalign uses a system of customized trays that fit over your teeth to keep them aligned. You can remove them, but preferably only when you eat. You should keep them on for at least 20 hours a day. People who have teeth that are extremely misaligned are not good candidates for Invisalign.

Esthetic braces can only be removed by the dentist. They are suitable even for teeth that are severely misaligned. After your free evaluation, your dentist will tell you which system is the most appropriate. Coral Springs FL Orthodontist