Ceramic braces could be the answer if you are looking for a discreet orthodontic treatment. These braces are much less visible compared to ordinary metal braces. They can be a good option for adults looking for braces that will make them feel less self-conscious about treatment.
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Originally introduced during the 1980s, so braces have brackets made from aluminum oxide, giving them a clear or tooth-colored appearance. The material is very hard, so ceramic braces are quite durable. However, this hardness can increase the brittleness of the material.
Like metal braces, the system uses brace brackets bonded onto your teeth. These brackets are controlled by archwires and elastics bands or ligatures that increase the tension on the wires. They work similarly to traditional braces, putting specific teeth under pressure so they are pushed or pulled into the proper places.
Not all ceramic braces need elastics. For example, Damon braces have self-ligating brackets, so treatment is elastic-free, and the braces have a more streamlined appearance.
Ceramic braces are a popular option, but like every system, they have advantages and disadvantages compared with other systems.
Ceramic braces pros and cons are compared with other systems and are discussed below.
“ Best dental office hands down! My son and i came here regularly for my cleanings. I also just got my braces taken off. In love with my new smile! The staff is always so welcoming and will do everything in their powers to make you comfortable. Bella did my braces and always just a phone call away when I ever had any questions regarding my treatment.“
Jasmine Julien Invisalign Patient
Both ceramic and metal braces work similarly as they are fixed onto teeth for the duration of treatment. However, there are some differences between them, which are outlined below.
Ceramic braces are undoubtedly less visible than metal ones, especially if you have a ceramic brace with tooth-colored wires. Ceramic braces are available in a huge range of different shades or have clear brackets.
Ceramic braces will cost more than metal braces. The materials used are more expensive, and the cost difference can be considerable.
Because ceramic brackets can be larger than metal brackets, you might find them harder to clean around. If you cannot clean around the brackets effectively, your gums will become swollen and more sensitive or start to recede.
Ceramic brackets are more fragile than metal, so your treatment may progress more slowly. Our orthodontist may need to make smaller incremental adjustments at each appointment than if you were wearing metal braces.
On the plus side, this may mean that treatment is slightly more comfortable than metal braces as the changes at each appointment will not be so large.
Some people have allergies to metals used in dentistry. The most common allergy is to nickel. Most of the metal alloys used in orthodontics contain nickel. Having ceramic braces can reduce these allergic reactions.
While ceramic braces are fixed, Invisalign is a removable aligner system, so each works quite differently.
Both braces are discreet, but you are more likely to notice ceramic brackets and wire than Invisalign’s clear plastic aligners.
Depending on your dietary habits, there might be a risk that the ceramic brackets become stained. Invisalign aligners are removed for meals, so they should not stain due to your dietary choices.
If discretion is important, investigate Invisalign first to see if it will suit you.
Ceramic braces, like metal braces, are suitable for more complex tooth movements. Although aligner systems like Invisalign can increasingly cope with complicated tooth corrections, there are still occasions when fixed braces are better.
Fixed braces are trickier to clean around, and you must use special tools to thoroughly clean your ceramic brackets and wires after each meal.
Invisalign aligners are simpler to care for since you remove them for oral care so that you can follow your normal routine.
The costs for ceramic braces and Invisalign may be similar. It all depends on your treatment plan and the issues needing correction.
You will need to change your dietary habits with ceramic braces. Eating hard, sticky, or crunchy foods could damage or break your braces. These foods can also be tricky to remove.
Invisalign requires no dietary changes since you take out the aligners for meals and when drinking anything other than water.
Ceramic braces offer a discreet way to straighten teeth and can complete precise tooth movements that could be beyond the scope of removable braces like Invisalign. However, they are more expensive than metal braces and the ceramic material is more fragile.
We can discuss all the possible pros and cons further when you visit our dental office. If we suggest ceramic braces as a possible treatment option, there are some things that you can do to ensure treatment is more successful.
If you opt for ceramic braces and they become stained, we can replace these stained components during your regular checkups with our orthodontist.
