Birmingham & Milford Clear Braces A Discreet Path to a Straighter Smile At Degenhardt Orthodontics, we offer clear braces as a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Made from comfortable, tooth-colored ceramic, these brackets blend in with your smile while delivering the same reliable results. Braces That Blend In Clear braces work just like metal braces but with a more subtle appearance. Using ceramic brackets, they shift your teeth into place while being less noticeable than traditional options. Just like metal braces, they’re strong, predictable, and since they’re fixed in place, they give Dr. Stephen Degenhardt a level of control that’ll have you smiling at the results! They’re a great choice for teens and adults who want the strength of braces without drawing attention to their treatment. With ceramic braces, you can feel confident throughout your smile journey. Clear Braces, Confident Smiles When it comes to orthodontic treatment in and around Birmingham and Milford, there’s a lot of reasons to recommend ceramic braces! You can expect all kinds of benefits, not the least of which include: Subtle Appearance Ceramic brackets blend in with your natural teeth, making them a great choice if you want a more discreet orthodontic treatment. Proven Effectiveness Clear braces provide the same reliable results as metal braces, treating even complex cases with precision and efficiency. Gentle on Gums Made from smooth ceramic material, these brackets cause less irritation to your cheeks and gums compared to traditional metal braces. Clear Braces vs. Metal Braces Who They’re Best For If you want a low-profile treatment that doesn’t sacrifice effectiveness, clear braces are a great fit. They’re especially popular with older teens and adults looking for a more discreet way to straighten their teeth. Strength & Durability Both options are strong, but metal braces are slightly more durable. Clear braces are a great alternative for patients who want a balance of strength and aesthetics. Aesthetic Appeal Ceramic braces are designed to blend in with your teeth, while metal braces stand out more due to their stainless steel brackets. Keeping Your Clear Braces in Top Shape Brushing & Flossing With Braces Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean around your brackets and wires. A floss threader or water flosser can help remove plaque in hard-to-reach places. Foods to Avoid Sticky, hard, and chewy foods can damage ceramic brackets. Avoid caramel, popcorn, and crunchy snacks to keep your braces intact. Regular Check-Ins Visit us every four to eight weeks so we can track your progress and make adjustments as needed. Keeping up with your appointments helps your treatment stay on schedule. Who Should Consider Clear Braces? Ceramic braces are a fantastic treatment option, and Dr. Degenhardt is an expert at using them to bring out the best in your smile. But, everyone’s case is different, and you should consider whether they’re the perfect treatment for you. Great for Teens & Adults They're an excellent option for older teens and adults who want a more subtle orthodontic treatment without sacrificing strength and efficiency. Perfect for Moderate to Complex Cases These braces can treat a variety of orthodontic concerns, including overcrowding, misalignment, and bite issues. They offer a balance of aesthetics and power, making them a great fit for many patients. Clear Braces FAQs How long does treatment with clear braces take? Expand Most patients wear clear braces for 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of their case. Dr. Degenhardt will create a personalized timeline for you during your consultation. Do clear braces stain easily? Expand Clear brackets resist staining, but the elastic ties can discolor over time. Avoid foods like coffee, tea, and tomato sauce, and maintain proper oral hygiene to keep your braces looking fresh. Dr. Degenhardt is happy to bring you in for an additional appointment to have your ties replaced and keep your ceramic braces looking clear and clean. Are clear braces as effective as metal braces? Expand Yes! Clear braces work just like metal braces, correcting even complex orthodontic cases with the same level of precision and control. Can I eat normally with clear braces? Expand You’ll need to avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage your brackets. Cutting up tougher foods and sticking to a braces-friendly diet will help keep your treatment on track. Do clear braces cost more than metal braces? Expand Nope! Not at Degenhardt Orthodontics. Dr. Degenhardt wants to ensure you pick the best treatment option for your lifestyle. Start Your Clear Braces Journey Today If you’re looking for a subtle, effective orthodontic solution, ceramic braces might be the right choice for you. Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Stephen Degenhardt at Degenhardt Orthodontics today to get started!