Clear BracesGranite Falls, NC

We understand that while many adults and teenagers want to straighten their teeth, they do not want to do so in the traditional fashion. Metal braces are an effective tool for straightening teeth and have been used by orthodontists for decades. The procedure works by placing a metal bracket onto the surface of each tooth and running a wire through those brackets. It is impossible not to notice when someone is wearing traditional metal braces. While the treatment works, it can also negatively impact a person's appearance in the process. Thus, we provide clear braces as a better option for our patients.

As a provider of clear braces, we are delighted to offer our patients an alternative to traditional metal braces. People concerned about how metal braces may impact their appearance can receive the same benefit of straight teeth without having a mouth full of metal. Clear braces have revolutionized orthodontics and opened up a world of possibilities for patients above the age of 16. This option is not a practical solution for children, but is extremely effective for older patients. Not everyone provides this option, so it is important to work with the right orthodontic office. If you live in or near Granite Falls NC, we invite you to call (828) 386-9811 and schedule a consultation to determine if clear braces are right for you.

Clear Braces vs. Metal Braces
At Dr. Gregory K Shell, we offer clear braces for adults and teens living in the local area. Dr. Shell can straighten teeth and move them into the perfect position so that every patient has a beautiful, radiant and straight smile. Whether you have teeth that are crooked, unsightly gaps between your teeth or a misaligned bite – clear braces can help to correct these issues.Clear braces work just as effectively as metal braces, but with some improvements. Clear braces are nearly invisible, making them ideal for busy professionals, teens, and adults that do not want this process to negatively impact their current appearance.

There are several types of clear braces to choose from. One operates similarly to traditional metal braces where a bracket is placed onto each tooth, and a wire is threaded between them. The difference is that instead of being made out of metal, the brackets are made out of tooth-colored resin that blends in with the natural tooth. Since the wire is tooth-colored, the braces themselves are virtually invisible and difficult to see. This solution works well for adults who are able to keep their braces clean. Otherwise, the brackets can become stained. The solution is an excellent alternative to traditional braces and is just as effective at addressing all orthodontic concerns.

Clear braces also come in the form of aligners. Clear aligners look like a full retainer that surrounds the teeth. The patient wears the aligner on the upper and lower teeth. Aligners are more convenient to wear than metal braces because they come out. One of the major concerns that people have with wearing braces is that they do not come off. If for example, you get braces then decide to get married, you would either have braces in your wedding pictures or need to pay to have them removed. Following the wedding, you would need to pay for the reinstallation. Both are inconvenient. Simultaneously, if you have a big presentation at work and want to impress a client, your braces cannot come off for the meeting. This leaves many adults apprehensive about committing to a two-year treatment plan. We understand that appearance is important for more than vanity. It impacts your ability to create a professional image and retain your own self-image. As a provider of clear braces, we make it so that you do not have to compromise your appearance or lifestyle while straightening teeth; aligners are a key component of that.

When straightening teeth with aligners, the biggest advantage is that they can be taken out. They are supposed to be worn for around twenty-two hours a day. The aligners need to be taken out when eating and brushing teeth. Since the aligners can come out, there is no need to adjust what you eat or worry about getting food stuck in between the brackets. The aligners can also be taken out while making that big presentation, having family pictures taken, getting married or any other special event. Enjoy life as you always have with aligners or clear braces. If you are interested in learning more about the process, we invite you to call 828-386-9811 and schedule an appointment with our Granite Falls office.