How to Protect Your Teeth

What Are Ceramic Braces?

Braces are devices used to straighten teeth, and they come in many different types. One of the less common types of braces available today is ceramic braces. Ceramic braces can help you have straighter teeth and an improved bite. Here are a few things you should understand about ceramic braces if you are considering getting braces.

They operate on the same principles as traditional braces

Ceramic braces are very similar to traditional braces that consist of metal brackets and wires. The key difference is in the material they are made with. Ceramic braces are made of ceramic, rather than metal, but the principle in how both of these options work is the same. Both ceramic and traditional braces straighten teeth by placing pressure on the teeth with the wires and brackets. This pressure forces teeth to shift into a different alignment, and the use of rubber bands with both systems helps shift teeth and correct bite issues.

They are less noticeable

While both systems work the same, the benefit of getting ceramic braces is that they are less noticeable. The materials used with ceramic braces are clear or white in color. They tend to blend in well with the teeth, but they are not completely invisible. You can still see that they are there, except they do not stand out as much as metal-colored brackets and wires. Because they are less obvious, adults who do not want to use clear braces will often choose ceramic braces instead. In most cases, ceramic braces are more affordable than clear braces, such as Invisalign—check with an orthodontist office to get to see what the exact price difference will be. 

They may require a little more maintenance than traditional braces 

With ceramic braces, you may need to spend a little more time maintaining them while you are wearing them. The reason for this is that they can still trap food particles in them, but you will see this more clearly because of their color. Because of this, you may need to brush your teeth more often and use floss more frequently. If you fail to keep your teeth and ceramic braces clean, the braces may start to discolor over time, and your teeth might appear dirty.

Ceramic braces are a great option for most people, and they can offer effective results. If you would like to learn more about ceramic braces or other options, talk to an orthodontist office, such as Reed & Sahlaney Orthodontics, LLP.


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