Alternatives to Metal Braces

How many times have you said to a friend, “I would love to straighten my teeth, but I don’t want a mouth full of metal!” Or, you’re a professional, and you feel like having noticeable braces would distract people from your presentations. Well, here at True Smile, we understand those concerns. That is why we offer some options other than just the usual metal braces you may be familiar with. Two alternatives to metal braces we endorse are Invisalign and Clarity Advance clear braces. Let’s take a look at both of these to give you a better idea of why we use these options, and why they would be a great benefit to you.

Clarity Advance clear braces uses basically the same technology that you would find in metal braces by using the archwire and elastic band technique, therefore they will have the same effective results as metal braces do. The brackets that are attached to your teeth are constructed of a clear ceramic material. Because of this, they blend into your teeth, which basically means they will go unnoticed by most people. Allowing you to have the straight teeth you’ve always wanted without having the whole world notice that you’re going through the process.

Not only are the brackets of Clarity Advance ceramic braces clear, but they are also really small. This makes these brackets more comfortable, as well as extremely discreet. Additionally, the material used for the brackets are incredibly durable. Because of all of these fantastic benefits, we are happy to recommend Clarity Advance clear braces to our patients looking for a little discrepancy with their orthodontic care.

In addition to clear braces, we also recommend Invisalign. Invisalign involves a series of aligners made of clear plastic. You get a new set of aligners every few weeks to continue the progress of your treatment. One of the great features of Invisalign is that it appears as if you are not wearing any braces at all. Even when noticed, they look much better than metal braces.

Another great feature, and one that is a favorite of many who use Invisalign is that these “braces” are removable. Once you have metal braces applied, they stay put until your orthodontist decides they should be removed. With Invisalign, you can remove them for anything. Perhaps you have a professional meeting and you feel more comfortable not having your aligners in during the meeting, just simply take them out. It is simple to take your Invisalign aligners out, and put them back in after your important events. It is also quick, simple, and comfortable to remove your aligners when you eat or drink. This means not eating restrictions while going through your orthodontic treatment, caramel apples, corn on the cob, and popcorn are all a-okay. Of course it is recommended one keeps the aligners in as much as possible, but the fact that they are removable gives you options when you need them.

Invisalign aligners are also smooth, where metal braces can be sharp and seem protruding at times. Not only will your gums thank you for that, but so will your teeth. Because you can take the aligners out, you can still receive any necessary dental work you might need where metal braces might hinder that care. This also makes brushing and flossing at home much, much easier.

Most Invisalign cases will take anywhere from one year to 18 months, where metal braces can take anywhere from two to sometimes five years. Because Invisalign is computerized, Dr. Trockel can estimate with great accuracy how long everything will take.

There are many advantages to these alternatives over metal braces. Feel free to give us a call here at True Smile. Dr. Trockel will create a customized treatment plan, just for you.