Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, but they are transparent or tooth-colored rather than gray or metallic silver.
Many people choose ceramic braces because they are less noticeable on the teeth. However, ceramic braces also have some disadvantages.
How do ceramic braces work?
The components of a classic ceramic orthodontic system are:
- Brackets: attached to the teeth;
- Archwires: wires are bent around the teeth, connecting all brackets and applying pressure to the teeth to align them;
- Elastic bands: attached to hooks on the brackets, hold the archwire in place and help adjust the position of the teeth and jaw.
Bands can be placed in almost any color: you can choose colors that match your skin tone or be creative and choose another color.
Installation of ceramic braces is a fairly simple process. The teeth must be very dry and clean, so before installation the orthodontist applies a substance called an etching agent to each tooth, then it is rinsed off and the teeth are dried.
Throughout the process, a suction tube is used to prevent moisture from reaching the front surfaces of the teeth. After cleaning and drying the teeth, each bracket is individually glued to the teeth. After that, a thin wire is threaded through each bracket and fixed in place using a small transparent elastic band. The thickness of the wire gradually increases during treatment as the teeth move.
After installation, you need to visit the orthodontist to monitor progress and, if necessary, adjust the wire. After each visit, you will feel some discomfort while the teeth move into the correct position.
After treatment with braces, the doctor may install retainers that help keep the teeth in their new position.
Types of ceramic braces
Ceramic braces can be:
- Ligature braces: the archwire is secured using a plastic, metal, or rubber tie;
- Self-ligating braces: sliding clips are used instead of ligatures to secure the archwire.
Pros and cons of ceramic braces
Pros:
- They are less noticeable than metal braces. The ceramic material used in these braces can be transparent or tooth-colored. They move teeth faster than clear aligners (Invisalign).
- Do not interfere with examinations such as MRI. Metal braces, although not an absolute contraindication for MRI, can distort signals during examinations. Ceramic braces create much less signal interference.
- Do not cause allergies. Ceramic systems can be an alternative for patients with metal allergies.
Cons:
- More expensive than metal braces.
- May cause gum sensitivity. Ceramic braces are larger than metal ones. This can make cleaning around them more difficult, which may lead to gum swelling and other problems.
- Less durable than metal. Ceramic braces break more often; they are less durable than metal simply because metal is stronger than ceramic. If you participate in contact sports or activities requiring a lot of mouth movement — for example singing or teaching — you may want to consider stronger metal braces that are less likely to chip or crack.
- Move teeth slower than metal braces. Ceramic braces are more fragile; constant repairs and corrections may delay the teeth alignment process.
- May become stained. Elastic ties that hold the wire on braces can get dirty and may develop stains until they are replaced. However, modern ceramic braces made from higher-quality materials may be more stain-resistant and do not change color easily.
Who are ceramic braces suitable for?
Ceramic braces are recommended if all permanent teeth have erupted. This ensures faster correction and a lower chance that braces will break due to pressure from tooth movement.
Ceramic braces are a good choice if you want your braces to be less noticeable, as they are usually tooth-colored or white.
Treatment duration
Teeth alignment with ceramic braces takes approximately 1.5–3 years, compared to less than 1–3 years for metal braces.
How to avoid stains on ceramic braces:
- Brush and floss after every meal. This helps remove food particles that may cause staining.
- Avoid foods and drinks that stain or change color. Tomatoes, red wine, coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, or condiments such as ketchup and mustard can stain braces and teeth.
- Do not smoke. Smoking can leave yellowish stains on teeth and all brace components.
- Do not use whitening toothpaste. Whitening products may cause the exposed tooth surface to become whiter than the tooth area under the brackets.
- Visit your orthodontist regularly. Your orthodontist can replace stained ceramic brackets or ties if necessary.
Ceramic braces can be a great choice if you want them to be discreet. However, they are slightly less durable, and bite correction may take longer. They may also be more expensive and easier to stain.
Before choosing between metal and ceramic braces, talk to an orthodontist at YAREMA DENTAL clinic, who will recommend the option that suits you best.
This article does not replace a medical consultation. For complete and personalized information, please consult your dentist.