Clear braces in Santa Barbara & Goleta
The clear braces solution
Clear braces at Ferris Orthodontic Group combine the proven reliability of fixed orthodontic treatment with a refined, detail-driven approach that sets this practice apart. Every bracket is placed with purpose, and every plan is built specifically around you.
Expert orthodontic care. A more discreet look.
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Over 25,000 smiles transformed with braces and Invisalign
Digitally planned, precisely placed
A discreet alternative to metal braces
Expertise for even the most complex cases
Refined, discreet orthodontic treatment—tailored to you
Clear braces offer a more subtle take on traditional orthodontic treatment, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth while delivering the same thoughtful, customized care we provide with every option at Ferris Orthodontic Group.
For patients who prefer the feel of fixed braces but want a less noticeable appearance, clear braces are a beautiful, effective choice. Whether you’re a teen navigating school or an adult balancing a professional lifestyle, this option allows you to move through treatment with confidence.
At Ferris Orthodontic Group, every treatment—clear braces, metal braces, or Invisalign—is carefully planned and personalized. The right choice simply depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and goals.
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Why patients choose clear braces
A more subtle look
Clear ceramic brackets are designed to blend with your natural teeth, offering a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces while still providing the benefits of fixed treatment.
A familiar, effective approach
Clear braces use the same trusted mechanics as traditional braces, making them a great option for patients who prefer a fixed appliance as part of their treatment plan but still want something more discreet.
Digitally planned for precision and efficiency
Every clear braces treatment at Ferris Orthodontic Group is digitally planned and tailored to the individual, guiding how brackets are placed and how treatment is sequenced from the very beginning. This thoughtful planning allows for a smooth, efficient treatment experience, with a high level of consistency and clarity at every step.
The clear braces experience at Ferris Orthodontic Group
Step1
Your complimentary consultation
Your braces journey begins with a complimentary consultation. You’ll first be welcomed by one of our team members and given a quick tour of the office before we begin gathering your records, including a precise 3D digital scan and CBCT imaging when indicated. One of our doctors will then perform a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth, bite, jaws, and facial structure. We’ll sit down together to discuss what we see, your treatment options, and the plan we recommend. You’ll leave knowing what treatment will involve, approximately how long it will take, and what it will cost—with plenty of time to ask questions and no pressure to move forward.
Step2
Getting your clear braces placed
Once your treatment plan is finalized, it’s time to get started. Clear braces use discreet, tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend naturally with your smile while working much like traditional metal braces. At Ferris Orthodontic Group, we use indirect bonding, an advanced technique that allows your doctor to digitally plan the precise position of each bracket before your braces are ever placed. Your brackets are then transferred to your teeth using a custom tray, allowing us to place multiple brackets at once with exceptional accuracy and efficiency. Before you leave, our team will walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your clear braces and what to expect during the first few days.
Step3
Progress toward your new smile
Throughout treatment, you’ll return for regular check-ins and adjustments, typically every six to eight weeks. Your doctor will evaluate your progress, make precise adjustments, and ensure your teeth and bite are moving according to plan. These small, intentional changes guide your teeth toward their final positions while allowing us to continually fine-tune your treatment along the way.
Step4
Your new smile — and keeping it that way
Once you and your doctor are happy with your bite and smile and agree that your treatment goals have been reached, the braces come off—and the finished smile is revealed. We’ll then create custom retainers to protect your result. Depending on your needs, preferences, and your doctor’s recommendation, that may include removable clear retainers, bonded retainers, or a combination of both. From there, we’ll see you for a few retainer check-ins to make sure everything remains stable and your retainers are fitting exactly as they should—helping protect the smile you worked hard to achieve. Learn more about our Smile Protection Plan.
Thoughtfully transformed smiles
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Adolescent, 10
Adult, 36
Frequently asked questions
Clear braces are designed to be more subtle than traditional metal braces. The ceramic brackets are tooth-colored and blend more naturally with your smile, making them less noticeable in most everyday interactions. They’re not completely invisible, but many patients find they feel more comfortable in social and professional settings while in treatment. For patients looking for a fully removable, nearly invisible option, Invisalign is another excellent choice.
The ceramic brackets themselves are highly resistant to staining. However, the small elastic ties that hold the wire in place can pick up color over time—especially from foods and drinks like coffee, tea, or wine. These ties are replaced at each adjustment visit, so any discoloration is temporary. With good oral hygiene and a few simple habits, clear braces continue to look clean and natural throughout treatment.
Ceramic brackets are slightly more delicate than metal, but they are designed to hold up well under normal use. For most patients, this doesn’t impact day-to-day treatment. We’ll guide you on simple precautions—like avoiding very hard or crunchy foods—to help keep everything on track. If a bracket does come loose, it’s typically a quick and easy fix.
Clear braces are a great option for teens and adults who prefer a more subtle look while still wanting a fixed, hands-on treatment approach. They can be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic concerns, and are often chosen by patients who like the feel of braces but want something less noticeable. The best way to decide if clear braces are right for you is through a complimentary consultation. We’ll evaluate your smile, walk you through all of your options—including Invisalign and traditional braces—and help you choose what aligns best with your goals and lifestyle.