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Ceramic braces (also known as clear braces) are an increasingly popular type of orthodontic treatment for teeth straightening that offers a low-visibility alternative to conventional metal braces. They comprise ceramic brackets and coated wires that blend with natural teeth. Many patients prefer clear braces for aesthetic reasons. This blog explains how ceramic braces operate, their price, and their benefits.
What are Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic braces are often called invisible braces as they are used in orthodontic treatment and come with brackets that are either tooth-colored or clear. They are placed on the front of the teeth and connected by wires to help align the teeth properly. Compared to metal braces, ceramic brackets are less visible.
How Do Ceramic Braces Work?
Ceramic braces act just like conventional metal braces. The orthodontist bonds ceramic brackets to the teeth connected with a thin archwire. Gentle pressure moves teeth over time. Periodic adjustments take place to ensure effective teeth straightening . Sometimes, elastic bands may be used to aid in tooth alignment. The duration of the treatment depends on individual needs.
Components of Ceramic Braces
Ceramic brackets: Constructed from stain-resistant, long-lasting materials.
Archwire: This flexible wire is used to apply pressure to the teeth to move them into position.
Elastic ties: These allow for the steady placement of the wire and may be either tooth-colored or clear.
Adhesive: For bonding brackets to teeth without damage.
Cost of Ceramic Braces
On average, ceramic braces range from $4,000 to $8,000. Various factors that impact the total price of ceramic braces include:
Treatment Duration: Basically, the longer the treatment, the higher the price.
Level of Expertise of Orthodontists: More specialized orthodontists could charge a higher fee.
Locality: Prices vary according to the place and the clinic.
Insurance Coverage: Some plans will cover part of the cost.
Benefits of Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces have various benefits, making them preferable for orthodontic treatment.
1. Aesthetic Appeal
Transparent braces are not as conspicuous as metal braces. In addition, the brackets are colored like the tooth's natural shade.
2. Teeth Straightening
It produces the same effects as traditional braces. They address everything from crowding, and space between the teeth, to bite issues.
3. Comfort Fit
The brackets have smoothed edges to irritate the gums and cheeks less; hence, patients get used to having them within a short time.
4. Durable and Reliable
Advanced ceramic brackets resist staining and damage. In daily usage, they can withstand pressure pretty well without getting damaged.
Potential Drawbacks of Ceramic Braces
Like any other orthodontic treatment, ceramic braces have their demerits too.
1. Higher Cost
They are more expensive than metal brackets. Your insurance may not cover it all.
2. Staining Risk
Certain foods and drinks can stain the elastic ties. Although, this can be prevented with good oral hygiene.
3. Slightly Bulkier than Metal
Ceramic brackets are slightly bigger than metal ones and may feel bulky at first. Most patients adjust within a few weeks.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic brackets work well for several patients.
Ideal Candidates Include
- Teenagers and adults seeking discreet orthodontic treatment.
- Moderate to severe alignment problems.
- Those who are willing to keep oral hygiene.
Not Recommended For
- Patients with severe bite problems may need metal braces.
- Patients who grind their teeth (will cause damage to ceramic brackets).
Ceramic Braces Care and Maintenance
Taking proper care of your braces ensures the treatment works well and damage to the wires or brackets is prevented.
Oral Hygiene Tips
- Clean teeth after each meal to ensure no stain is left.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to add strength to the enamel.
- Floss daily to get rid of food particles.
Foods to Avoid
- Hard food (nuts, ice) can break brackets.
- Sticky candies (caramel, gum) can also damage wires.
- Dark fluids (coffee, soda) can stain the elastic ties.
Alternatives to Ceramic Braces
Invisible Braces
Clear aligners, the nearly invisible braces among all orthodontic options. They are removable for eating and cleaning. Best suited for mild to moderate cases.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth. Therefore, they are not visible. However, they are much more expensive than ceramic braces.
Metal Braces
This is the most affordable form of treatment. It is also the most durable and highly effective. The main drawback, however, is that these braces are more noticeable than ceramic braces.
Are Ceramic Braces for You?
Ceramic braces can be one of the best orthodontic options for patients looking for discreet treatments but aren’t eligible for clear aligners. They are relatively invisible and equally effective at straightening teeth with severe malocclusions as metal braces. Generally, ceramic brackets cost more than metal ones, but the aesthetic advantage is worth it. Talk with an orthodontist to see whether ceramic braces are the right choice for you.
FAQs
1. How do ceramic braces differ from metal braces?
Ceramic braces use tooth-colored or clear brackets to make them less noticeable. Metal braces have silver brackets and wires; both work the same, but ceramic braces are more aesthetic.
2. Are ceramic braces more expensive than traditional braces?
Ceramic braces cost about $1,000 to $2,000 more than metal braces. The prices differ based on the duration of treatment and orthodontist fees.
3. Do ceramic braces stain easily over time?
Ceramic braces are stain-resistant but may have their elastic ties discolor. Avoiding coffee, tea, and smoking may help them remain clear.
4. How long does treatment with ceramic braces typically take?
Most patients wear them for about 18 to 36 months, much like they do with metal braces. Instances that are a bit more severe might involve extended treatment duration.
References
deLeeuw, A. (2022, June 22). Ceramic braces: Pros, cons, and cost. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ceramic-braces
WebMD Editorial Contributor. (2023, April 27). What to know about ceramic braces. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/what-to-know-about-ceramic-braces
Jewell, T. (2019, May 17). Ceramic braces: How do they compare? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/ceramic-braces
American Association of Orthodontists. Adult Orthodontics (https://www3.aaoinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Adult_Orthodontics15-cons-hl-1.pdf). Accessed 1/13/2023.
American Dental Association. Braces (https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/braces). Accessed 1/13/2023.
American Dental Association. Chewing Gum. (https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/chewing-gum). Accessed 1/13/2023.
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Turner S, Harrison JE, Sharif FN, Owens D, Millett DT. Orthodontic treatment for crowded teeth in children (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34970995/). Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021 Dec 31;12(12): CD003453. Accessed 1/13/2023.
