Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics
Ceramic Braces
Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics
Ceramic Braces
Invest in a new smile with the help of clear ceramic braces. These braces are more subtle and do not draw as much attention as traditional braces might.
The board-certified doctors at Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics straighten teeth with ceramic braces so that you can enjoy a beautiful smile.
Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics
What Are Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, aligning teeth by gradually pulling them into position. However, ceramic teeth braces are less visible. They consist of various parts, including:
- Brackets: These square structures stick to your teeth and are a clear/white ceramic material.
- An archwire: This wire connects the brackets and applies pressure to your teeth to straighten them. Archwires are the same as those used with metal brackets and come in an assortment of size and stiffness that our doctors expertly utilize to achieve your perfect smile.
- Elastic ties: These bands attach to the hooks of the brackets. They secure the archwire in order to exert force onto the teeth which works to align them. Elastic ties come in a variety of colors or in a more muted options if going for a discrete, subtle look.
Invisible ceramic braces are popular due to their cosmetic appeal. Because they’re less noticeable, teenagers or adults who work full-time may prefer them, as they draw less attention.
Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics
Ceramic Braces vs. Normal Braces
When compared to traditional metal braces, ceramic braces hold advantages, but there are also trade-offs.
Advantages of ceramic braces include the following:
- Ceramic braces are less visible: Tooth-colored or clear ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal ones.
- Ceramic braces can be friendly for those with metal allergies: Ceramic braces can be a great option for individuals with severe metal allergies if they feel that Invisalign is not an option for them
- Ceramic braces are glued onto the teeth: For patients who are unable to handle the additional responsibility of Invisalign clear aligners, clear, ceramic braces can be a great alternative.
Some considerations of ceramic braces include these points:
- Ceramic braces are less durable: These braces break off or fracture more easily than metal braces. This can create a more difficult removal process at the end of treatment versus metal braces.
- Ceramic braces are larger than metal braces: Because ceramic brackets are larger than metal ones, they can be less comfortable and be more difficult to clean.
- Ceramic braces are “harder” than metal: This surprises many people, but due to this fact, if the upper teeth hit against the ceramic brackets, the teeth are more likely to chip with ceramic braces than metal braces. Many times, our orthodontists may recommend only using upper ceramic braces for this reason or “propping” the bite open to ensure this does not occur.
