Clear Braces Vs. Traditional Metal Braces by Jean Taylor

This article compares and contrasts the traditional metal braces with the new clear braces.

Having perfect teeth is about good alignment and bright white color. If you have an overbite or underbite, your dentist will recommend orthodontic treatment to correct the problem. The difference in the method of straightening teeth 20 years ago and now is better aesthetics and convenience.

For your parents, the only option to straighten teeth would have been metal braces. This is a system of small metallic blocks that are fitted onto each tooth of the arch and held together by a thin wire running through them. It iseasily visible to anyone you talk to and even you feel its presence every now and again, when bits of food gets lodged in between the metal components. New patients will experience slight pain getting used to the metal structures, which rub against the inner cheek and tongue causing abrasions in the first few days. These braces can only be taken off by the dentist and that too at the end of treatment, about one and half to two years later. You'd have to be patient with the teeth cleaning routine, avoiding the metal brackets with the toothbrush, but at the same time making sure that you have reached all the exposed surfaces of the teeth.

If the above description of metal braces turns you off teeth straightening, there's still hope. Not only have the traditional metal braces improved in becoming lighter and therefore more user friendly, new systems of clear braces are now available. The most popular brand among these clear braces is Invisalign, by Align Technologies. It has been a favorite among dentists and patients in San Francisco CA for several years, rising above other brands such as Clear Correct, Red White and Blue and Smart Moves. Let's find out why.

All clear braces are removable. That means you, the patient, can take them off with ease whenever necessary, i.e. when eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth. The way they work is the same as that of conventional braces. They apply pressure on teeth so that the teeth gradually move to the desired position. However, clear braces come as a series of aligners whereas metal braces are just one set that is used throughout treatment. The series of clear aligners are custom made to fit your teeth. One set is worn for about 2 weeks and then your dentist will fit on the next set. This process is continued until your teeth come to the desired position.

About the Author

There's a dental practice in San Francisco, California which has been taking care of the dental needs of the population for over 25 years. At this dental facility, patients can expect the best of care and the cutting edge of treatments. Learn more about the types of procedures offered at this facility by visiting www.drleoarellano.com. Read more on: What do you know about Gum Disease?..,Read: Gum Disease - San Francisco.