Look Good While Achieving Your Dream Smile
Clear Braces Austin
When most people think of braces, mental images are conjured up of a mouthful of metal wires and brackets. While traditional braces offer excellent results, many individuals are not thrilled at the idea of wearing them for several years, particularly adults. Fortunately, Dr. Robert T. Wootton of Midtown Dental Associates offers an excellent alternative for straightening teeth and achieving orthodontic goals. Clear braces, including the increasingly popular ClearCorrect™, are offered to our Austin, Texas patients. Now, you have the option of comfortably and inconspicuously correcting smile flaws, no matter how minor or extensive your needs are. To learn more about clear braces, contact our Austin dental practice today.
Types of Clear Braces
Dr. Wootton offers two treatment options, including:
Clear braces function in the same manner as metal braces; however, the brackets and wires are made of tooth-colored ceramic and plastic, which blend in nicely with the teeth, making them less visible to others. Clear braces are typically worn for one to two years, depending on the extent of the case. Patients must maintain good oral hygiene habits in order to keep braces looking as subtle as possible, and see the dentist regularly for checkups.
ClearCorrect™ is a revolutionary method of correcting misaligned teeth. A series of clear, plastic trays are customized for the patient’s smile, which gradually shift the teeth into their correct position. The aligners are comfortable and removable for the utmost in ease and convenience. A new aligner is worn every two weeks, so less dental visits are necessary. Plus, the removable trays make eating and cleaning more manageable, and no one will even know you are undergoing treatment.
Clear Braces Treatment Process
Initial Consultation
The initial consultation is probably the most important part of the entire process, during which time Dr. Wootton:
- Meets with you and maps out your entire treatment plan
- Thoroughly examines your teeth, gums, and occlusion
- Asks questions and documents your dental history and medical history
- Reviews digital photographs of the face, mouth, head, and neck
- Takes X-rays of the teeth and jaw
- Takes impressions of the teeth
Once the planning is carefully outlined, your clear braces or ClearCorrect™ trays will be custom fabricated and administered.
During Treatment
Dr. Wootton or one of our helpful dental professionals will provide detailed instructions for at-home care and set up a schedule for office visits, which are necessary throughout treatment.
After Treatment
Once the clear braces are removed, or the ClearCorrect™ plan is complete, patients usually have to wear a removable appliance, a retainer, to preserve the beautiful results forever. Dr. Wootton will provide instructions for how long the retainer must be worn, which is essentially until the teeth and bone have been firmly secured in their new position.
Candidates for Clear Braces
Clear braces and ClearCorrect™ are ideal for both teenagers and adults, who wish to correct orthodontic issues without wearing conspicuous metal braces, such as:
- Misaligned teeth
- Crossbite, overbite, or underbite
- Overcrowded teeth
- Widely spaced teeth; gaps in-between teeth
- Protruding upper teeth
- Jaw or jaw joint issues
- Sleep apnea
- Missing teeth
Benefits of Clear Braces
- Excellent results – clear braces and ClearCorrect™ create an attractive smile
- Boost self-confidence with your new, improved, beautiful smile
- Comfort – ClearCorrect™ trays are smooth, removable, and comfortable to wear
- Oral health benefits – Aligned teeth are less susceptible to decay or cavities
- Correct issues while still looking like yourself, and feeling good about your appearance
Risks or Side Effects of Clear Braces
Patients may experience some discomfort as the teeth gently shift, especially after Dr. Wootton tightens the braces, or when a new tray is worn. Over-the-counter pain medication can alleviate any irritation.
Additionally, patients must maintain good oral hygiene habits to prevent decay from occurring, and to keep the clear braces looking their best.
Patients do not need to worry about avoiding certain foods with ClearCorrect™; however, you will need to be mindful of certain foods with clear braces, so brackets do not come loose or pop off.
Lastly, if a retainer is not worn consistently after the treatment, the teeth will move back into their original state.
Learn More about Clear Braces
Do you want to be one of those people with a beautiful, picture-perfect smile? Do you want to address orthodontic concerns, but cringe at the thought of a mouthful of metal wires and brackets? If so, clear braces can help you achieve the look you want, inconspicuously and comfortably. To learn more about clear braces or ClearCorrect™, contact our Austin dental practice today.
