How clear braces are put on (Step-by-step guide)

Pre-braces checklist

Before braces fitting, dental cleaning should be the first thing on your checklist to remove any plaque and tartar buildup. Your dentist will polish your teeth and make sure there are no underlying issues like cavities or gum inflammation. In the weeks leading up to your appointment, maintaining good brushing and flossing habits helps keep your teeth and gums healthy and ready for the bonding process.

Step 1 - Brackets placement

So, how do they put clear braces on? The process is nearly identical to that of traditional metal braces; the only difference is that the brackets are made from clear ceramic or porcelain, giving a more subtle and natural look.

Step 2 - Inserting the archwire

Many people think that's all there is to it when learning how braces are put on, but there's a bit more happening behind the scenes. Brackets need extra stability and support, which they get from the archwire threaded through the brackets and is secured in place by small elastic bands.

Step 3 - Securing the wire

Depending on your orthodontic choice, your dentist may add self-ligating clips instead of using elastic bands with traditional brackets. This allows for smoother movement but can be a bit pricey.

Step 4 — Final adjustments

The final adjustments are about making the patient comfortable and ensuring everything is in place. The dentist will also provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule the next adjustment appointment.

These steps can vary according to the severity of malocclusion and the type of braces. However, if you have a mild to moderate case and want to stay away from braces pain, then putting aligners on your teeth might be a better option.

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What to expect during the appointment?

Before worrying about how long do braces take to work, let's discuss what exactly you could expect from the appointment to put on the braces. A mild tenderness is normal within the first 60-90 minutes of the process. However, the placement process is supposed to be pain-free, followed by a little discomfort, which will also subside in a few days.

Tips for the first week after getting clear braces

For the first week, avoid eating foods that are hard or crunchy in texture. To control the pain, take over-the-counter pain relievers, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, and apply a cold compress to soothe the soreness.

Here is what you can do in the first week after braces to allow for a smooth transition into the treatment.

Diet and pain management

Be careful with your food choices. In the first week, go for soft foods, like mashed potatoes, smoothies, or yoghurts. Use pain relievers with your dentist's advice and promote healing with warm water. Simply mix a half teaspoon of salt into eight ounces of warm water and swish a few times a day. To speed up the healing process, use a cold compress to reduce the soreness and inflammation.

Oral hygiene care

Follow a consistent oral hygiene routine by brushing, flossing, and staying hydrated to ensure your mouth remains clean and free of food debris. Use an orthodontic wax to minimize the irritation caused by the wire.

Stay Consistent

Be consistent with your routine and check-ups. Patience is the key here; don't rush to get rid of the discomfort. Instead, fall in love with the process.

After the first week with all these tips, you will have a strong foundation, after which things will get easier. One more thing: even if you feel like you're healing well, always keep your dentist in the loop.

How long the braces stay on

The total time can range from twelve months (mild cases) to three years (severe cases). Treatment duration will depend on the case complexity and patient compliance. Mild cases can be fixed within 12 to 18 months; complex issues will take longer. Let's walk through all the factors that can influence the length of your orthodontic treatment and what you can do to help achieve the best results in the shortest time.

Complexity of the case

Minor crowding or spacing can take as little as 12 to 18 months; however, severe bite issues can take up to 24 to 36 months or maybe more.

Age

Teens often take less time than adults because their jaws are developing. But there isn't any hard and fast rule.

Patient compliance

One of the biggest factors that can affect how long your treatment takes is how well you follow your orthodontist's instructions. Skipping appointments, not wearing elastics, ignoring food restrictions, or slacking on oral hygiene can all add months to your timeline. Stay consistent, follow the advice, and you'll reach your perfect smile much faster.

Final thoughts

Clear braces for teens & adults offer an effective, discreet way to achieve a straighter, more confident smile. While treatment duration can vary, staying consistent and following your orthodontist's guidance can make the journey faster and easier. The process of getting clear braces can be quick, painless, and precise, so don't worry, you'll walk out of your appointment ready to start your smile transformation.

Frequently asked questions

How are clear braces put on? +

After cleaning and preparing the teeth, an orthodontist puts on clear braces by bonding clear ceramic brackets to the teeth, securing them with a tooth-coloured wire, and attaching elastics.

How long do clear braces take to put on? +

Applying clear braces takes almost 2 hours.

Are clear braces painful? +

Yes, clear braces can cause discomfort, but it's generally mild and temporary, often described as pressure rather than sharp pain.

Do clear braces turn yellow? +

Yes, clear braces can turn yellow due to staining from food, drinks, and vaping.

What are the downsides of clear braces? +

Their tendency to be less durable, potentially leading to more breakage and longer treatment times.

Are clear braces faster than aligners? +

Clear aligners are often faster than braces for mild to moderate cases.

What can't you eat with clear braces? +

Foods that are hard, crunchy, and chewy can damage or dislodge the brackets and wires of your braces.

How much do clear braces cost? +

Clear fixed ceramic braces in the UK cost between £2,505 and £5,430 for a single arch, while clear aligners can start from around £2,500.

How to brush teeth with braces? +

To brush with braces, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste to clean thoroughly for at least two minutes, twice a day or after every meal.

How do they put on invisible braces? +

The treatment of invisible braces involves three steps: a consultation, a 3D scan, and the creation of a custom treatment plan.

How do they put clear braces on your teeth? +

Clear braces are applied by bonding tooth-colored brackets to the teeth, threading an archwire through them, and using the wire's pressure to gradually move the teeth into position.

How do clear braces get put on? +

Clear braces work by bonding translucent brackets to the teeth, threading a tooth-colored wire through them, and gradually adjusting the wire every few weeks to move teeth into place.