Clear Braces in Bellevue, WA
At Dr. Wallace W. Wong, Orthodontics, we are proud to offer clear braces for teens and adults in Bellevue, WA . Many patients hesitate to get the orthodontic care they need because of how traditional braces look. Clear ceramic braces work just like metal braces but blend in with your natural teeth, giving you a straighter smile with far less visibility.
Request an AppointmentDiscreet Clear Braces in Bellevue
Clear braces use tooth-colored or translucent ceramic brackets that are bonded to the front of your teeth and connected by a thin archwire. Because the brackets match the color of your teeth, they are much less noticeable than metal braces while delivering the same precise, reliable tooth movement.
Clear Braces vs. Clear Aligners
Clear braces and clear aligners are not the same. Invisalign® clear aligners are removable plastic trays worn over your teeth like a shell. Clear braces are fixed to your teeth, just like traditional braces, so there is nothing to remember to wear. Clear braces can be an excellent choice for patients who need more complex tooth movement or who prefer a treatment that stays in place full time.
Benefits of Clear Braces
- Nearly invisible appearance that blends with your natural tooth color
- Effective for a wide range of orthodontic problems, including complex cases
- Fixed in place, so treatment progresses without relying on wear time
- Durable, stain-resistant ceramic material
- A great option for image-conscious adults and teens
Things to Consider
Clear braces do have a few considerations. They are typically more costly than traditional metal braces, though we offer payment plans for all patients. The elastic ties that hold the wire can become discolored by coffee, tea, wine, curry, and certain other foods, and smoking can also cause staining. Fortunately, the ties are replaced at each adjustment appointment, and good oral hygiene helps keep your braces looking their best.
Caring for Your Clear Braces
Brush after meals, floss daily, and avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage brackets. Continue seeing your general dentist for regular cleanings. If a bracket or wire ever becomes loose, visit our orthodontic emergency care page for tips. After your braces come off, a retainer will help keep your smile in place.
Is Clear Braces Treatment Right for You?
After a thorough examination with digital x-rays and scans using our iTero® scanner, Dr. Wallace Wong will discuss all of your orthodontic options and the advantages of each so we can determine the right course of treatment together. Explore all of our orthodontic services or call (425) 746-7126 to schedule your free consultation.
Clear Braces FAQs
What are clear braces made of?
Clear braces use tooth-colored or translucent ceramic brackets connected by a thin archwire, making them much less noticeable than metal braces.
Are clear braces as effective as metal braces?
Yes. Clear braces move teeth the same way metal braces do and can treat many of the same orthodontic problems.
Do clear braces stain?
The ceramic brackets resist staining, but the elastic ties can discolor from coffee, tea, wine, and smoking. Ties are replaced at each adjustment.
What is the difference between clear braces and Invisalign?
Clear braces are fixed to your teeth, while Invisalign uses removable clear aligners. Dr. Wong can recommend the best option for your smile.
Are clear braces more expensive?
Clear braces typically cost somewhat more than metal braces. We offer payment plans and accept insurance with orthodontic benefits.
How long will I wear clear braces?
Most patients wear clear braces for 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of their case.
Can teens get clear braces?
Yes. Clear braces are a popular choice for teens who want a discreet option that stays in place full time.