Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, but they are clear or tooth-colored instead of 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 include:
• Brackets – attached to the teeth;
• Archwires – wires that curve around the teeth, connecting all brackets and putting pressure on the teeth to align them;
• Elastic bands – attached to hooks on the brackets, they hold the archwire in place and help adjust the position of the teeth and jaw.
These bands can be almost any color: you can choose shades that match your skin tone or get creative with another color.
The process of placing ceramic braces is fairly straightforward. The teeth must be very dry and clean, so before placement the orthodontist applies a substance called an etchant, then rinses it off and dries the teeth.
A suction tube is used throughout the process to prevent moisture from reaching the front surfaces of the teeth. After cleaning and drying the teeth, each bracket is individually bonded to the teeth. Then a thin wire is threaded through each bracket and secured with a small clear elastic. The wire size is gradually increased during treatment as the teeth move.
After placement, you need to visit your orthodontist to check progress and adjust the wire if necessary. After each visit, you will feel some discomfort as your teeth move into the correct position.
After treatment with braces, the doctor may place retainers to help keep the teeth in their new position.
Types of Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces can be:
• Ligature – the archwire is secured with a plastic, metal or rubber tie;
• Self-ligating – sliding clips are used instead of ligatures to hold the wire in place.
Pros and Cons of Ceramic Braces
Advantages:
• Less noticeable than metal braces. The ceramic material used in these brackets is clear or tooth-colored. Move teeth faster than clear aligners (such as Invisalign).
• Do not interfere with imaging procedures like MRI. Metal braces, while not an absolute contraindication for MRI, can distort signals during scans. Ceramic braces cause far less interference.
• Hypoallergenic. Ceramic systems can be an alternative for patients with metal allergies.
Disadvantages:
• More expensive than metal braces.
• May cause gum sensitivity. Ceramic brackets are larger than metal ones, which can make cleaning around them more difficult, leading to gum swelling and other issues.
• Less durable than metal braces. Ceramic brackets are more prone to breaking, simply because metal is stronger than ceramic. If you do contact sports or activities involving a lot of mouth movement—such as singing or teaching—you may want to choose stronger metal braces that are less likely to chip or crack.
• Move teeth more slowly than metal braces. Ceramic brackets are more fragile; constant repairs and adjustments can slow down the alignment process.
• Can get stained. The elastic ties that hold the wire on the brackets can discolor and stain until they are replaced. However, modern ceramic brackets made from higher-quality materials may be more stain-resistant and do not change color.
Who Are Ceramic Braces For?
Ceramic braces are recommended once all adult teeth have come in. This ensures faster correction and reduces the risk of the braces breaking due to pressure from tooth movement.
Ceramic braces are a good choice if you want your braces to be less noticeable, since they are usually tooth-colored or white.
Treatment Duration
Teeth alignment with ceramic braces takes about 1.5–3 years, compared to less than 1–3 years for metal braces.
How to Prevent Staining on Ceramic Braces
• Brush and floss after every meal. This helps remove food particles that can cause stains.
• Avoid foods and drinks that cause stains or discoloration. Tomatoes, red wine, coffee, tea, soda, or condiments like ketchup and mustard can stain braces and teeth.
• Do not smoke. Smoking can leave yellowish stains on the teeth and all components of the braces.
• Don’t use whitening toothpaste. Whitening products can make the exposed tooth surface whiter than the tooth underneath.
• Visit your orthodontist regularly. Your orthodontist can replace stained ceramic braces or elastic bands if needed.
Summary
Ceramic braces can be a great option if you want your braces to be discreet. But they are slightly less durable, and the alignment process may take longer. They can also be more expensive and easier to stain.
Before choosing between metal or ceramic braces, speak with an orthodontist at YAREMA DENTAL, who will recommend what is best for you.