Elevate Your Smile with Translucent Cosmetic Braces in Langley
With the translucent cosmetic braces option we offer at Langley Orthodontics, you can get the same benefits as with wire braces. They also may also have a less obvious 'braces look'.
What Are Translucent Cosmetic Braces?
Translucent cosmetic braces are very similar to traditional metal braces, except that the brackets (and in some cases, the wires) are tooth-colored rather than metal.
These tooth-colored ceramic brackets are generally non-staining and can blend in with your teeth as if they were translucent. This can make them less noticeable than metal, but not as "transparent" as inside braces or clear aligners.
Translucent cosmetic braces are made of composite materials that are somewhat weaker and more brittle than metal braces are. And though they may blend in with the natural colour of your teeth better, the brackets are slightly larger than metal brackets.
Like traditional braces, translucent ceramic brackets are not removable until orthodontic treatment is completed. This means that they involve more or less the same lifestyle issues as metal braces do.
Other Treatment Considerations in Langley, BC
Since they're not as strong as metal braces, translucent cosmetic braces can sometimes require a longer treatment time frame, since your orthodontist may need to apply a slower, more gradual force to ensure the strength capabilities of the clear brackets are not overtaxed.
Translucent cosmetic braces are typically more expensive than traditional metal braces. For this reason, some patients decide to have the ceramic braces placed only on the most visible teeth – typically the upper teeth or even just the upper center teeth – while using traditional metal brackets on the rest.
Also, there is a risk of tooth abrasion if the incisal edges of the upper front teeth touch the lower ceramic brackets.
Translucent Braces Treatment Process
As with any orthodontic treatment, your first visit will be a consultation to determine if translucent cosmetic braces are right for you. During this appointment, we will take X-rays and perform an examination. Once it has been determined that translucent cosmetic braces are right for you, you will return for a second appointment, where our orthodontists will bond your new braces to your teeth.
You will need to come into the office for regular adjustments and checkups to ensure that treatment stays on track. Your braces will be removed once your teeth are in their prescribed positions.
Translucent Cosmetic Braces FAQs
Below, our orthodontists share the answers to some of the frequently asked questions that we receive from patients looking to have treatment with translucent cosmetic braces:
-
How effective are translucent cosmetic braces?
Translucent cosmetic braces treat orthodontic issues just as effectively as traditional metal braces. Your orthodontist will work with you to help you choose the most suitable option for your orthodontic issues.
-
How do you brush your teeth when you have translucent cosmetic braces?
You will brush your teeth in much the same way that you would if you had metal braces. You will put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush and brush your teeth in small circular movements with the bristles pointed toward the gums. Ensure you brush above, on, and below your braces.
-
Can translucent cosmetic braces stain?
Yes! It is important to remember that your translucent cosmetic braces can become stained if you eat foods like berries or drink beverages like coffee or wine. You may want to limit your intake of these foods and drinks until you have finished treatment.
-
Is there anything I can't eat while wearing translucent cosmetic braces?
Like other types of braces, you should avoid hard or sticky foods like gum, nuts or hard candies. These can become trapped in your braces or cause damage to the wires and brackets.
-
What is the cost of translucent braces in Langley, BC?
The price of your treatment can vary depending on a few factors. This can include the complexity of your orthodontic issues and the specifics of your treatment plan.
For a detailed estimate of how much your treatment may cost, contact us to book a consultation.