Categories: Orthodontics

Clear Braces for Grandma

No one said that clear braces were only for youth. In fact, we are treating more and more patients who are near retirement age and ready to improve their smile. There is no time like the present and we can assist you, regardless of age.

Why clear braces are a great idea for Grandma and Grandpa

Even adults struggle with the idea of having to wear metal braces on their teeth. While effective, metal braces are obvious and cumbersome. After years of not wearing orthodontics, some adults may be searching for something more discreet than metal braces. In this case, we have two options to consider.

Types of clear braces

There are two main types of clear braces:

Aligners

Like a full retainer, clear aligners surround the teeth. While people need to wear the clear aligners for at least 22 hours a day, the clear aligners are removable. With clear aligners, the patients have a chance to influence the straightening process by removing the aligners to eat, take a photo, give a presentation and more. If a patient elects to wear clear aligners, we will create the entire set of aligners at the beginning. The patient will wear each aligner for around two weeks time and will replace the current one with the next aligner in the series.

Gradually, the aligners move teeth into the correct position until they are straight. The process requires fewer visits to our office since the patient switches out the aligners at home and on a regular basis. However, the greatest benefit of clear aligners is the discreet appearance and the ability to remove them when necessary.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces have a similar build to traditional braces. A professional follows the same process by securing the brackets onto the teeth and threading a wire between them. The difference is that ceramic braces are tooth-colored and provide patients with a clear appearance that other people have difficulty noticing. As such, when one smiles or speaks, the braces are impossible to see from a distance and difficult to notice closeup. Some patients elect to have ceramic braces because they do not want to think about putting aligners in and want something more permanent.

One factor to keep in mind with this option is that people must brush their teeth after eating or else stains can develop, making the clear brackets yellow in appearance. Both are excellent options and we can let the patient know which solution would work best for straightening the teeth after conducting an examination.

Issues corrected with clear braces

We can correct malocclusion with clear braces of both varieties. These products will gradually and carefully straighten the teeth over time. It is essential that we do not rush the process to prevent damaging the roots. Orthodontics can also help to align the patient's bite.

If the bite is out of alignment due to the position of teeth, we can correct this by using aligners or ceramic braces. However, if the actual jaw needs to move, we are likely to recommend ceramic braces in combination with other treatments. In extreme cases, patients may also need surgery. We can provide specific recommendations after examining you.