Ceramic (Clear) Braces
Grand Rapids, MI Orthodontists
Less noticeable and more toned down than regular metal braces, ceramic braces from our Grand Rapids orthodontists use clear or tooth-colored brackets and a more discreet wire color to straighten teeth. Ceramic braces can fix many of the same smile problems as traditional braces and are ideal for those concerned about having visible metal on teeth.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re interested in pursuing ceramic braces treatment.
What Makes Ceramic Braces Different?
When compared side-by-side, ceramic braces and traditional metal braces have a few stark differences. For one, ceramic braces do not consist of medical-grade stainless steel brackets but instead feature clear or tooth-colored brackets made of a material known as polycrystalline alumina. This helps them to blend in more seamlessly with your teeth.
Read More → Should I Choose Ceramic or Metal Braces?
The archwire, or wire that connects the brackets along the upper and lower teeth, can also be tooth-colored to reduce how noticeable the braces are to others. However, clear ceramic braces do tend to stain more easily due to their lighter bracket color so our orthodontists do recommend that beverages like coffee and red wine are avoided, or at least limited, during treatment.
Can’t give up that morning cup of joe? Be sure to rinse your mouth with water if brushing isn’t possible. If you have the ability to brush your teeth, do so within 30 minutes for the best stain prevention. Drinking coffee through a straw is also an option!
Another one of the is that they serve as a great orthodontic alternative for those allergic or sensitive to nickel. Many patients who experience issues when exposed to nickel develop a form of contact dermatitis which involves skin irritation. Thanks to a lack of metal being used for brackets, ceramic braces are the more allergy-friendly choice.
Advantages of Ceramic Braces
Though very similar to metal braces in terms of function, there are several perks to during your orthodontic treatment. Our orthodontists would be more than happy to discuss the details of ceramic braces with you and whether they are in line with your personal preferences.
A few advantages of ceramic, or clear, braces include:
- Low-key appearance
- Feature clear or tooth-colored brackets and wires to closely match your natural enamel
- Same effective and proven orthodontic technology as traditional braces
- Great alternative for patients who have severe cases of tooth misalignment or malocclusion and don’t otherwise qualify for clear aligners
- Less likely to interfere with imaging (MRI) scans
Who Is a Good Candidate for Ceramic Braces?
Older teenagers and adult orthodontic patients who have cosmetic concerns are often the best candidates for ceramic braces. When ceramic braces are worn, the clear brackets allow for a more discreet look which is ideal for college students and working professionals. However, due to their design, ceramic braces also require patients to be more responsible when it comes to daily oral hygiene.
Choose a Subtler Approach to Braces
Do you want the effectiveness of metal braces but could do without their obvious appearance? Our orthodontists in Grand Rapids, MI, may recommend ceramic, or clear, braces to you. Call Miller Orthodontics today at (616) 942-9320 to request an appointment to discuss how ceramic braces might work for you. You can also fill out our online contact us form.
