All About Ceramic Braces

Different types of ceramic braces are sometimes described as clear. Plastics may also be used for this cosmetic alternative to the traditional metal varieties. You can learn all about them here.

Because they are closer to the natural color of your teeth, the ceramics are less noticeable when you smile. The alternative was created to conquer the embarrassment that some people felt when wearing the traditional variety.

Teenagers and adults choose the clearer alternative. Some orthodontists say they take longer to work. Others feel they are equally effective.

It is the brackets that perform the desired function of realigning the teeth. The brackets were traditionally made of stainless steel. Today, a combination of stainless steel and nickel titanium are used, but the look is ultimately the same. It hasn’t changed much over the years.

Ties of various colors are used in the traditional type. In the newer type, the ties are made of clear elastic or white metal. These hold the brackets in place, but are less noticeable.

There is a slight disadvantage in terms of friction. The clear variety may move more, which could make them less comfortable.

Ceramic braces are generally less flexible than their metal counterparts. This can make them more difficult and time-consuming to remove when the treatment is completed. An orthodontist may charge more for the final office visit as a result.

For less complex cases, there are clear removable aligners. These are made by several different companies. They work to gradually move the teeth into position. They can be inserted and removed on your own. They will need to be replaced on a frequent basis, which is something to consider in terms of cost.

In surveys, aligners that include no visible metal have been rated as the most attractive. Ceramic braces receive the second highest rating. Traditional metal brackets are considered the least aesthetically pleasing.

When it comes to cost, the ceramics are more than the metal varieties. The cost of orthodontic appliances in general varies greatly. A study conducted in 2007 revealed that the US national average was $4941 for children and $5354 for adults. Those figures are for the traditional metal varieties with a treatment time of 12 to 24 months.

Longer treatment times will cost more. The length of treatment is determined by the severity of the misalignment and the type of treatment chosen.You may be willing to accept a longer treatment time in order to have the better appearance of ceramic braces. Many people are. Discuss the option with your orthodontist to get more details.