Ceramic Braces

People who have crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth often feel self-conscious about their smile. This can also interfere with the function of your teeth. Orthodontic treatments, such as braces chapel hill, can help patients achieve an attractive and functional smile. Modern braces are smaller and less noticeable compared to the braces that were previously used. One of the more conspicuous types of braces available today are the ceramic braces.

Ceramic and Traditional Braces

Most people are familiar with traditional metal braces. The brackets are made from metal and they are cemented to the teeth. A metal wire is used to connect the brackets. Because these braces are created from metal, they are quite noticeable.

Ceramic braces are nearly identical to traditional braces in their design, however, they use different materials. Rather than using a gray or silver metal bracket, the braces use a clear or tooth-colored bracket. The wires can also be created from a transparent material which makes the braces far less noticeable.

The benefits of ceramic braces include the following:

• They are less visible than metal braces. The ceramic material can either be clear or tooth-colored.
• They are able to move the teeth more quickly than clear aligner trays. Ceramic braces usually take about 18 to 36 months to straighten the teeth. Popular clear-alignment tray methods, including Invisalign, can take a year or longer, even in mild cases when your teeth do not require dramatic corrections. Clear-alignment methods do not work well for severe cases of misalignment or malocclusion which includes a crooked bite.
• You are able to select the color of the material. Metal braces come in a single color: gray or shiny metallic silver. Ceramic braces are available in virtually any color you want.
• Ceramic braces do not interfere with imaging tests. Metal braces can cause issues with the signals in imaging tests. Ceramic braces produce far less interference with the signal.

Some of the disadvantages associated with ceramic braces are:

• They are more expensive compared to metal braces. Ceramic braces can cost up to $1,000-2,000 more than metal braces.
• Ceramic braces can cause sensitive gums as the brackets are larger than metal brackets. This can also make it more difficult to properly clean around the brackets. This can also lead to swollen or receding gums if your toothbrush is not able to reach the enamel and gumline.
• They are slightly less durable than metal material. Ceramic braces are twice as likely to break or fracture. The process to remove the glue can also damage the tooth’s surface.
• They move the teeth at a slower pace than metal. Because they are more fragile, repairing broken brackets or making adjustments can delay the timeline.
• They can easily stain. The elastic ties which secure the wires to the brackets can easily stain.

The effectiveness of ceramic braces is dependent on the dental issues you need to correct. As an example, traditional braces are a more effective solution for patients who have extreme overcrowding. In addition, the dentist may recommend traditional braces for patients with severe misalignments.

Ceramic braces are best suited for patients who do not have severe misalignments. Speak you’re your orthodontist to determine if you are a good candidate for ceramic braces. The dentist will also advise if the treatment time is extended by opting to use ceramic braces.

Ceramic Brace Care

Tiny elastic parts, called ligatures, secure the wires to the brackets. It is possible for the ligatures to become discolored or stained. Food which is highly pigmented, such as tomato sauce, curries, or berries, can leave stains behind. Highly pigmented drinks including tea, coffee, or red wine can also leave stains. Smoking can easily stain the ligatures too. Work to avoid any of these foods and drinks to ensure your ligatures look their best. If the ligatures are stained, it is alright. Your orthodontist is able to change the ligatures when you have the braces adjusted.

To keep your braces looking their best, remember to brush your teeth twice a day. Fluoride formula toothpastes help to strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities. It is also important to floss daily. Flossing when you have braces can be difficult, however, it is doable with the proper tools. You can use an orthodontic floss threader to access under and between the wires of your braces. You can also floss carefully between your teeth and along the gumline.

Ceramic braces are an excellent choice for patients who want a subtle solution for correcting the teeth or jaw. Because they are typically tooth-colored or white, they are far less noticeable. This makes ceramic braces an optimal solution for straightening the teeth for patients who want to be more conspicuous.

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