If you’ve seen ceramic braces before, you know how subtle they can be. After all, the components are designed to blend in with the color of your teeth. Our Grand Rapids orthodontists can go into further detail about this braces type if you’re curious. It never hurts to explore every option that is available to you!
Here are the main things to consider when mulling over ceramic braces as an orthodontic treatment option.
Ceramic Braces Benefits
There are several . One of which is their low visibility. Instead of being made from stainless steel like metal braces, the brackets used for are made of polycrystalline alumina. This material is what helps the braces match your natural enamel shade.
Patients also appreciate that ceramic braces:
- Move teeth at a slightly faster rate than Invisalign® aligners
- Effectively treat a range of mild to severe bite issues
- Are ideal for adult orthodontic patients or those in highly visible professions who may feel self-conscious with metal braces
How Can Ceramic Braces Help My Smile?
While metal braces remain the most durable option, ceramic braces don’t hold back when it comes to what they can fix. Improvements have also been made to ceramic braces since their introduction to allow for enhanced strength, efficiency, and greater patient comfort.
Read More → Should I Choose Ceramic or Metal Braces?
If you’re unsure of whether they’re right for you, don’t hesitate to ask one of our orthodontists or the rest of our trained staff. We’d be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
Dental issues treatable by ceramic braces include:
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Open bites
- Crossbites
- General overcrowding
- Gaps or spaces in between teeth
Once improved alignment has been achieved, you will have a reduced risk of developing cavities or gum disease. Of course, daily oral hygiene will still need to be performed if you want to fully prevent either. In addition, you should find that chewing is much easier than it was with overlapped or crowded teeth.
Daily Care Is Key With Ceramic Braces
As with any type of braces, care should be taken throughout treatment. That means not eating crunchy, sticky, or overly chewy foods until after your braces are removed. Examples include caramel, corn on the cob, and popcorn to name a few. Refraining from enjoying foods of this kind will save your brackets from unnecessary damage.
Learn More → Top Foods to Avoid With Braces
It’s also important to keep your ceramic braces clean. Our orthodontists recommend that you gently brush your teeth at least 2 times a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Brushing and flossing regularly after meals will help to remove plaque and prevent the clear bands around your ceramic brackets from staining.
You can also reduce the chance of stains by:
- Avoiding smoking
- Steering clear or limiting your consumption of dark colored foods and drinks if possible (coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato sauce)
- Visiting your general dentist regularly for teeth cleanings and exams
Need to Make an Appointment?
Ceramic braces provide you with a clear appearance like Invisalign aligners but you don’t have to worry about losing them much like metal braces. If you’d like to learn more about this option with regards to your own treatment, our orthodontists in Grand Rapids, MI, would love to have a one-on-one chat with you. Simply call Miller Orthodontics today at (616) 803-8938 to request an appointment.
This blog post has been updated.
