ClearStep

This is a type of invisible brace, similar to Invisalign, which is easy to wear and attractive to look at. It is mainly worn for cosmetic purposes as it is unnoticeable when worn over the teeth.

This brace is worn in order to correct poorly aligned or crooked teeth or to fill in gaps between the teeth. It is designed to fit neatly and securely over your teeth and gradually shifts your teeth back into their original position.

What does the ClearStep brace look like?

It is a clear plastic brace which is free from metal brackets and wires and helps to straighten the teeth in a series of small movements.

How does the ClearStep brace work?

This brace is worn for a period of two weeks before being removed and replace with a new brace. This process is repeated until the teeth have moved into the correct position. This length of time varies from 9 months up to a year or more.

Ideally, this brace should be worn for 24 hours but if not, then aim for at least 22 hours in a day. It is only removed for brushing, eating and drinking.

This is supported by regular check ups with your dentist. You may be asked to wear a retainer which helps to keep your teeth in their new position.

You may experience some mild discomfort at the beginning but this is a sign that the brace is starting to work and is moving your teeth.

Advantages of the ClearStep brace

This is another type of invisible brace which is preferred to the conventional wire and metal brace. Therefore, the advantages are the same as for Invisalign.

They include:

• Aesthetic appearance: this brace is made of a transparent plastic.
• Easy to wear and clean
• Almost invisible to the naked eye
• Convenient with today’s busy lifestyles

Disadvantages of the ClearStep brace

This brace is not recommended for every type of orthodontic problem. There are some people who due to the extent of their problem such as a severe overbite are unable to wear this type of brace.

In their situation, the traditional wire and metal brace is a better option.

They require dedication and commitment from the person wearing them. They will only work as long as you follow your dentist’s instructions which include wearing them for up to 22 hours each day. If you keep removing the brace then the results will take much longer to appear.

This type of brace is more costly than other types such as the conventional metal and wire brace.

How is the ClearStep brace fitted?

Each brace is customised to the exact measurements of the patient’s teeth. These are obtained via a set of photographs and an impression taken of your teeth.

The impression involves the use of a mould filled with dental putty which you bite into. This leaves an imprint which is used in the design and production of your brace.

Both of these are sent away to a dental laboratory. The lab uses these to create a 3D model of your teeth which also acts as a blueprint for the fabrication of the ClearStep brace.

Once your brace is ready you will be asked to return to the dental surgery for the fitting. The dentist will show you how to wear this brace by means of a 3D simulation. He or she will also advise you about caring for your brace.

This brace is worn for two weeks before replacement with a new brace. This is why it is important that you are serious about wearing this brace and are prepared to commit to the treatment.