Clear BracesRathmines
Understanding Clear Braces
Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, provide a discreet option for teeth alignment with their transparent or tooth-coloured appearance. This makes them especially appealing to adults who desire orthodontic treatment without drawing attention to their braces. Often referred to as aesthetic or tooth-coloured braces, they deliver the same effectiveness as traditional metal braces.
Despite their comparable effectiveness, ceramic braces are slightly more delicate than their metal counterparts—a difference that generally doesn’t affect their performance. Concerns over staining are quite common among patients. However, we clarify that the ceramic braces themselves do not stain. The transparent rubber bands that hold the wire to the braces can discolor after exposure to certain foods, but these are replaced at each orthodontic visit, ensuring your braces stay as inconspicuous as possible. This unique combination of durability and visual appeal makes ceramic braces a popular choice for those who prioritise both efficiency and aesthetics in their orthodontic care. For those in the area, keep in mind that Rathmines is just a short distance away from Terenure Orthodontics.
Parking & Public Transport
Benefit from free on-street parking on Fortfield Drive, ensuring our patients can park without difficulty. Regular bus services run between Rathmines and Terenure, making public transport a reliable option for visiting the clinic.
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The Process
This appointment is to discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists. It may also involve your dental and medical history, a physical examination of your teeth and jaw, X-rays, and possibly impressions of your teeth to create models.
The orthodontist will review the X-rays, photos, and examination results to devise a specific plan for moving your teeth into the correct position. This plan will include the estimated length of treatment, cost of treatment and any preparatory work needed.
This might involve dental cleaning, addressing any existing dental issues like cavities, and possibly extracting teeth to create space for adjustments. Once these issues have been adressed, it's time to move onto the next phase!
The orthodontist places attachments onto your teeth to help the aligner grip your teeth. The first course of aligners are then given to you. We ensure that the aligners fit appropriotely at this point and explain everything you need to know to start your journey.
You will have regular appointments (usually every 8-10) for progress checks. During these visits, the orthodontist will check the fit of your aligners and may advise that a new set of aligners are ordered.
The attachments and wires are carefully removed, and any adhesive is cleaned off your teeth. This is usually a quick and painless process.
To keep your teeth in their new position after the braces are removed, most patients will need to wear a retainer full time for a period following the removal of braces, transitioning to night-time wear to ensure teeth do not shift back to their original positions. Read more here.
Book a Consultation
Discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists to find out what treatment option suits you best.
FAQs
Clear braces are highly effective for treating various orthodontic issues, functioning similarly to traditional metal braces but with less visibility due to clear or tooth-coloured materials.
The treatment duration with clear braces is typically similar to traditional metal braces, depending on the individual's orthodontic needs and case complexity.
Clear braces may cost slightly more than traditional metal braces due to advanced materials used for their less visible appearance, though costs can vary.
Clear braces' brackets don't typically yellow, but the adhesive or elastic bands might stain from certain foods, drinks, or smoking. Regular cleaning can minimize staining.
Disadvantages include potential for staining, slightly higher costs, and possible unsuitability for extremely complex cases, with individual suitability and concerns addressed during consultation.
Clear braces may require elastic bands for adjustments, often clear or tooth-coloured to maintain discreet appearance.
Speed varies by case; some options like Invisalign or shorter-duration braces might offer quicker results for certain cases, but effectiveness depends on complexity.
Discomfort level is generally similar to traditional braces, typically mild and manageable, with patients adapting after initial placement and adjustments.
Decision depends on individual orthodontic needs, lifestyle considerations, and personal preferences, with both options offering unique advantages.
Speed of treatment varies between clear braces and Invisalign, dependent on the specific orthodontic issue. In some cases, one may offer quicker solutions than the other.
Clear braces are not typically more painful than metal braces, with any discomfort experienced usually mild and temporary.
Clear braces are designed to be less noticeable, using clear or tooth-coloured brackets to blend in with the natural tooth colour. They work in the same way as traditional braces by slowly and gently aligning your teeth.
The treatment time for Clear or Ceramic Braces is 18 months to 24 months, similar to metal braces.
Begin Your Journey
Discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists to find out what treatment option suits you best. We offer complimentary online consultations for all patients.