We are pleased to offer our patients the Clarity SL Bracket System from 3M Unitek, a world leader in orthodontic appliances and innovation.

Traditional bracket systems use ligatures, or elastics, which create friction. It then requires more force to move teeth, increased adjustments, and longer treatment times. It is like driving your car with the emergency brake on. Elastics also discolour and attract plaque.

Innovative 3M technology makes Clarity braces self-ligating so they do not require the use of elastic bands: View Video

Comfort

The Clarity SL bracket self-ligates - it does not require an elastic to attach the bracket to a wire. This allows your teeth to move with lighter forces.

Convenient

The reduction in friction allows Dr. Low to move your teeth more quickly than conventional braces with fewer adjustments required. This translates into fewer appointments for changes and less overall treatment time.

Clear

The Clarity SL bracket is the only aesthetic self-ligating bracket and the lack of elastics keeps them looking clean and clear. Having good Oral Hygiene is easy with Clarity SL. Clarity braces won't stain or discolour - they'll look as good the day they come off as they did they day we put them on. They are made from translucent ceramic, so they are much less visible than metal braces.

Dr. Low uses this amazing bracket system with an Indirect Bonding technique - placing your brackets on a model of your teeth prior to placing them simultaneously onto all of your teeth - which allows for extremely accurate placement of each bracket. This further reduces treatment time and adjustments necessary by providing friction-free, efficient, tooth movement. Your teeth move in a very direct path to their desired position.

These beautiful appliances are offered at no extra charge to our patients - standard care in our office is to have aesthetic brackets on all your top anterior teeth.

Clarity SL Self-Ligating braces are the choice you can feel good about. They use the latest technology, so they work fast. You'll spend less time in the doctor's chair, and even have fewer visits. And because your teeth move into position more efficiently, your overall treatment time may be shortened too.

Clarity braces accomplish your orthodontic treatment just like metal braces. With Clarity braces, "they'll notice everything but your braces".

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the metal and ceramic self-ligating braces from 3M?

3M metal self-ligating braces (called SmartClip™ Self-Ligating Braces) and 3M translucent ceramic self-ligating braces (called Clarity™ SL Self-Ligating Braces) share the benefits of self-ligation and the unique innovative 3M clip design. They both offer:

• More comfort - teeth are moved with light forces
• Less time - self-ligating design helps move your teeth quickly and with fewer adjustments
• High-quality results - the 3M design and quality manufacturing process combine to help your orthodontist move your teeth predictably

Ceramic braces are often requested by patients who prefer a more aesthetic look. With 3M self-ligating braces, ceramic and metal braces can be used in combination treatment, with metal braces typically used on the lower teeth. This combination gives you the look you want with the self-ligating treatment advantages you and your orthodontist expect.

Will I get to choose my braces?

Unique 3M self-ligating braces are not the same as the self-ligating braces offered by some orthodontists. Talk to your orthodontist to find out if self-ligating braces fit into your treatment plan. Then ask for 3M self-ligating braces. They are a great choice for your new smile.

How long does treatment take?

3M self-ligating braces eliminate the friction from elastic bands (ligatures), a contributor to treatment time.* That means overall treatment time may be faster than with conventional braces. However, since each patient has unique orthodontic needs, only your orthodontist can determine the treatment time specific to your situation.

Wearing braces with elastic bands holding the archwire is like driving a car with the brakes on. It takes more force to move your teeth and this can slow down your treatment progress.

Will my teeth hurt during treatment?

3M self-ligating braces allow your orthodontist to move your teeth with much lighter forces, helping to make your treatment much more comfortable than with traditional braces.

Is it hard to keep my braces clean?

Traditional braces that require elastic bands (ligatures) can attract food and harbor bacteria. Because 3M self-ligating braces don't require elastic bands, they are typically easier to keep clean and maintain during your orthodontic treatment, enhancing your overall orthodontic health.

Will my braces require special care?

Because of their open design, 3M self-ligating braces are typically easier to care for than conventional metal braces. Your orthodontist and staff will give you instructions on the proper care of your braces.

Can I wear colored elastic bands (ligatures) with 3M self-ligating braces?

While 3M self-ligating braces do not require elastic bands to hold the wires in place, with your orthodontist's approval, you can still choose to individualize your braces with colored elastic bands. However, you probably won't want to since elastic bands add resistance and can actually lengthen your treatment time and cause discomfort.

Are 3M ceramic self-ligating braces transparent?

3M self-ligating ceramic braces are translucent so they blend in with your natural tooth color, drawing less attention to your braces, so only your smile shows through.

Do 3M ceramic self-ligating braces stain?

No. 3M ceramic self-ligating braces are made from a special ceramic material that does not stain. Elastic bands (ligatures) can stain, but the unique design of 3M ceramic self-ligating braces does not require ligatures. So staining is not a problem.

Are 3M self-ligating braces for everyone?

3M self-ligating braces can be used by most patients regardless of age.

Click here to learn more about Clarity.