If you're weighing your options for orthodontic treatment, you've probably come across clear braces — and you're wondering if they're actually worth it. We're breaking down exactly what clear braces are, how they compare to metal braces and clear aligners like Invisalign, what to expect during treatment, and whether they might be the right fit for you. No fluff, just the honest answers you need before you come in.
What Are Clear Braces?
Clear braces — also called ceramic braces — work exactly the same way traditional metal braces do. The difference is in the brackets. Instead of stainless steel, clear braces use tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend with your natural tooth color, making them significantly less noticeable than metal.
At Shoe Orthodontics, we use Solventum Clarity Ceramic Brackets. We chose them specifically because they blend naturally with teeth, are durable, and come with adhesive already applied — which reduces the chance of a bracket coming loose accidentally.
Like metal braces, clear braces use gentle, steady pressure over time to move your teeth into the right position. You'll visit us every 4–6 weeks for adjustments and progress checks.
Clear Braces vs. Metal Braces vs. Clear Aligners (like Invisalign)
Not sure which treatment is right for you? Here's a straightforward comparison:
A note on the bottom teeth: At Shoe Orthodontics, we place clear brackets on the upper arch only. Metal braces go on the lower teeth. This is intentional — ceramic brackets on the lower teeth increase the risk of chipping the edges of your upper teeth when you bite down. The good news is that your lower lip naturally covers the bottom brackets, so most patients find it makes no visible difference in appearance.
"I typically recommend clear braces for patients interested in something less noticeable but who admit they won't be faithful about wearing removable aligners. Aligners are great if you wear them consistently — otherwise, clear braces are the way to go." — Dr. Shoe
Pros and Cons of Clear Braces
Pros
- Much less noticeable than metal braces — a great option for adults and teens who want a discreet look
- Can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including complex cases
- Solventum Clarity Ceramic brackets are stain-resistant and durable
- Smooth ceramic edges that many patients find more comfortable than metal brackets — and if you do experience any irritation early on, braces wax can help
- Treatment time is comparable to metal braces — typically 18–24 months
Cons
- The small elastics (called O-ties) that hold the wire in place can fade or discolor over time — though we replace them at every visit, so they're always being freshened up
- Clear braces cost a little more than metal braces
- Not removable — food restrictions apply just like with metal braces
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Treatment with clear braces typically takes 18–24 months, which is comparable to metal braces. Every patient's case is different, though — the exact timeline depends on the severity of your case, your age, and other factors. We'll give you a personalized estimate after your free consultation.
Do Clear Braces Stain?
This is the question we get most often. The short answer: the brackets themselves are made of stain-resistant ceramic and won't stain. The O-ties — the tiny elastics that hold the wire to the bracket — can fade or pick up color over time, especially with things like coffee, tea, or dark foods. Since we replace them at every appointment, this resets with each visit.
What Does Clear Braces Treatment Cost?
Clear braces at Shoe Orthodontics cost a little more than metal braces — there's a $500 upcharge for clear brackets on the upper arch. We know cost is one of the biggest factors patients consider when choosing a treatment, and we don't want it to be a barrier.
We offer flexible financing with no-interest payment plans, and you can get started for as little as $300 down. We accept most major insurance providers and will help you determine exactly what your plan covers before you make any decisions. There are no hidden fees — ever.
Ready to find out what treatment would cost for your specific case? Schedule a free consultation — we'll walk you through everything.
Does Insurance Cover Clear Braces?
In most cases, if your insurance plan covers orthodontic treatment, it will cover clear braces the same way it covers metal braces — coverage is typically based on the treatment itself, not the bracket material. That said, every plan is different.
We accept most major insurance providers and will work with you during your consultation to find out exactly what your policy covers. We also accept FSA and HSA payments. Whatever insurance doesn't cover, our no-interest financing is there to fill the gap.
How to Care for Clear Braces
Caring for clear braces is similar to caring for metal braces — the same habits that keep your teeth healthy will also keep your brackets clean and in good shape throughout treatment.
Brush at least twice a day for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. An electric toothbrush can make it easier to clean around the brackets and get into the spaces between them. Floss at least once a day — floss threaders make this significantly easier with braces and are worth picking up if you haven't already.
A few things to keep in mind: dark foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato-based sauces can affect the O-ties between visits. Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming them helps. And as with any braces, stick to the food restrictions — hard, sticky, and crunchy foods increase the risk of a bracket breaking.
Keep up with your regular dental cleanings too. We recommend seeing your dentist at least twice a year during treatment. And when treatment wraps up, you'll want to know how to protect your retainers so your results last.
FAQs About Clear Braces
No — at Shoe Orthodontics, we place clear ceramic brackets on the upper arch and metal brackets on the lower teeth. This protects your upper teeth from chipping on ceramic brackets below, and since your lower lip covers the bottom brackets, most patients find it doesn't affect the look at all.
Yes. Clear braces can handle most orthodontic cases, including complex ones. They're a great option for patients who aren't candidates for clear aligners or who've already compared aligner options and want a fixed option instead.
Yes — clear braces are available for any comprehensive case at Shoe Orthodontics, for both teens and adults.
Yes, the same restrictions that apply to metal braces apply to clear braces. Sticky, hard, and chewy foods should be avoided during treatment.
We typically see patients every 4–6 weeks to check progress, make wire adjustments, and replace the O-ties.
For most patients who want a discreet fixed option, yes. Clear braces give you the same clinical results as metal braces — same range of cases, same timeline — with brackets that blend into your teeth instead of standing out. The tradeoff is a slightly higher cost and the food restrictions that come with any fixed appliance. If you know you won't wear aligners consistently, clear braces are often the better call over clear aligners. If you're on the fence, come in, and we'll honestly tell you which treatment makes the most sense for your case.
Clear Braces Treatment in Hanover, PA
Shoe Orthodontics offers clear braces, metal braces, and clear aligner treatments in Hanover, PA; Reisterstown, MD; and surrounding areas. Clear braces are a great alternative for braces patients who want something more discreet than metal braces.
Schedule your free consultation at Shoe Orthodontics in Hanover, PA, or Reisterstown, MD. If your schedule is tight, ask us about same-day braces — we can often get you started sooner than you'd think.
