Clear Braces for adults – Type of materials, pros and cons, and the average cost of invisible braces

Clear braces are dental appliances made from clear or transparent materials that mimic the color of teeth and are much more discreet than metal braces.

Over time, transparent braces have improved until they reach the high levels of effectiveness and aesthetics they offer today.

We must clarify that clear braces are not the same as clear aligners, if you want to read about clear aligners click here to see our full article.

Below, we will talk about the different types of clear orthodontics, their pros and cons, prices, effectiveness, and who is a candidate to wear them.

Types of clear braces

  • Plastic or resin braces: These were the first cosmetic braces, being made of resin, they imitate the color of the teeth perfectly, however, they fracture easily, detach from the teeth, and easily acquire yellowish tones, although are still used, they are becoming less frequent every day as there are now better options available.
  • Ceramic braces: Ceramic braces are much more resistant than resin ones, Ceramics look very similar to tooth enamel and this makes them very discreet, they are widely used, however, they are also prone to staining and changing color over time.
  • Transparent sapphire brackets: Sapphire braces are currently the most used, synthetic sapphire offers endless benefits, making sapphire braces as resistant as metal ones, with the advantage that the sapphire is completely transparent, does not stain or break, and also adheres strongly to tooth enamel. You can read our complete guide to sapphire braces by clicking here.

Benefits of Invisible braces

The benefits of transparent braces are merely cosmetic since there is no difference from traditional orthodontics in terms of effectiveness or comfort, they are simply made of a different material that will allow you to align your teeth more discreetly.

Clear braces can be beneficial for teens whose self-confidence and psychosocial well-being might be affected by wearing metal braces; or for adults whose jobs require an impeccable personal appearance.

Disadvantages of transparent braces

As we mentioned before, some types of clear orthodontics are less resistant and also tend to change color over time, affecting the cosmetic factor.

However, these drawbacks disappear with synthetic sapphire braces. Even so, it is important to note that transparent braces are just as uncomfortable as metal ones since the patient will still have to deal with brackets and wires attached to their teeth.

Best clear braces: Self-ligating invisible braces

This is an orthodontic system that uses a click or gate mechanism built into each bracket to hold the arches instead of using elastic bands.

In general, cosmetic self-ligating braces are made of synthetic sapphire since, in addition to providing aesthetic benefits, sapphire offers mechanical advantages that reduce the duration of treatments.

The most prestigious transparent self-ligating braces today are the Damon Clear from the Ormco company.

Clear VS Metallic braces

Both types of braces work in the same way and offer the same results, they do not reduce the discomfort of using orthodontics, the only difference between transparent and metal brackets is the cosmetic factor.

Clear braces are much more discreet than metal braces and can offer a better experience by offering a treatment option that doesn’t require you to wear metal appliances on your teeth.

Alternative to clear braces for adults and teens

When it comes to cosmetics, the best alternatives to clear braces are clear aligners and lingual braces.

  • Invisalign Clear aligners: Invisalign uses a completely different system than orthodontics with braces, this consists of the use of removable clear aligners that the patient can put on and take off at will. Orthodontics with invisible aligners offers great advantages in terms of cosmetics and comfort by not requiring brackets and wires and also offers high-quality results. Read the full article here.
  • Lingual orthodontics: Popularly known as “inside braces”, they are metal braces that adhere to the inside of the teeth, making them impossible to see from the outside.  This type of orthodontics is one of the most aesthetic, however, it is also one of the most uncomfortable since the dental appliances are in direct contact with the tongue, in addition to being the most expensive type of orthodontics. You can read all about lingual orthodontics here.

Clear Braces Cost

Ceramic braces cost between $3.000 and $7.000, sapphire braces cost between $3.000 and $9.000, and self-ligating Damon Clear braces cost between $5.000 and $9.000 (before insurance).  

Frequently Asked Questions

Do clear braces turn yellow?

This depends on the material they are made of, plastic and ceramic braces tend to change color over time, however, sapphire braces keep their original color until the end of treatment.

How to whiten clear braces?

It is not possible to whiten plastic or ceramic once they have been stained, the best option is to opt for brackets made of sapphire since these do not stain.

How to clean transparent braces?

Clear orthodontics requires the same care as conventional orthodontics, this includes the use of orthodontic brushes, dental floss, and mouthwashes.

If you’re wearing plastic or ceramic braces, avoiding dark foods like coffee, wine, and tea can help you preserve the clear tone of your braces.

Transparent braces with colored bands

The selection of orthodontic bands is completely personal, so you can choose the colors you like. However, since the main purpose of clear braces is to make treatment more discreet, it is recommended that you choose clear, white, or light-colored elastic bands.

What are the cheapest invisible braces?

Ceramic braces are the most affordable ones, yet, keep in mind that the price difference is small and sapphire braces might be more convenient. 

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