Most people are familiar with braces: a series of brackets linked together by a metal wire and elastic bands. Crowded, crooked, and misaligned teeth can lead to issues with your self-confidence and your oral health. Braces are an excellent way to correct these issues before they lead to more complicated problems. The Difference Between Traditional and Ceramic Braces
In short, the only major difference between ceramic and traditional braces is the material. Traditional braces are made with metal brackets and use a metal wire. As the name suggests, ceramic braces are made with ceramic materials such as porcelain or zirconia.
Traditional and ceramic braces both operate in the same way, by tightening the wire throughout treatment. Both types of braces also require the use of elastic bands, which attach the wire to the brackets. These similarities also result in comparable treatment times.
However, ceramic brackets are clear or tooth-colored, making them much more discrete than metal ones. Ceramic braces can also be equipped with transparent wires to make the appliance even less noticeable. On top of that, the elastic bands can also be clear or tooth-colored.
The Effectiveness of Ceramic Braces
Because they are structurally and operationally similar to traditional braces, ceramic braces are also very effective. However, the effectiveness of ceramic braces depends on the severity of your orthodontic issues. In general, ceramic braces are ideal for adult patients without severe malocclusions.
The only real major downside to ceramic braces is their propensity to stain. The actual ceramic brackets will never stain, unlike the elastic bands. We recommend limiting your consumption of darker foods and liquids during treatment. To prevent stains, you can also brush your braces and teeth immediately after a meal.
Benefits of Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces have many benefits over traditional braces, some of which include:
| • | Better aesthetics: Your brackets, wires, and elastic bands will be much less noticeable than their metal counterparts. |
| • | Smaller brackets: Ceramic braces also include smaller brackets, which again can improve the aesthetics of your appliance. Smaller brackets can also be more comfortable, causing less friction on the inside of your cheeks and lips. They also make it easier to keep your teeth clean. |
| • | Comparable results: Ceramic braces can be just as effective as traditional ones, depending on the type of issue that needs correcting. Other aesthetic appliances, such as clear aligner trays may be more discrete, but they can also be less effective. Ceramic braces are a good middle ground for patients who want optimal results and a discreet appliance. |
| • | Easy removal: Ceramic braces are easy to remove once your treatment is complete. The type of bonding agent we use also minimizes the possibility of damaging your enamel both during treatment and the removal process. Metal brackets require a different bonding agent that can be hard on your teeth. |
Schedule a Consultation Appointment
Find out if ceramic braces or alternatives like Invisalign are right for you or your family! Call one of our four convenient locations to schedule a consultation appointment today!
