A straight, confident smile can transform your appearance. Not everyone wants to use traditional metal braces to achieve their goals, though.
Ceramic braces align the teeth more subtly than braces with metal brackets. At Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, Dr. Robert Rudman and Dr. Jeff Birg, who have decades of combined orthodontic experience, offer high-quality ceramic braces for patients seeking effective yet discreet solutions.
What Are Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic braces work like metal braces. The only difference is that they use clear or tooth-colored brackets, which blend more naturally with your teeth.
The brackets are made from a strong, stain-resistant ceramic material that withstands normal wear while remaining inconspicuous. When paired with clear or white-coated wires, ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal braces.
Benefits of Ceramic Braces
Many patients choose ceramic braces over other options. Some of the advantages of this treatment include:
- Subtle Appearance: The brackets blend in with your natural tooth color.
- Comfortable Fit: Ceramic brackets have smoother edges than metal braces. This can reduce lip and cheek irritation.
- Appropriate for Complex Cases: Ceramic braces are suitable for treating many concerns, including severe misalignment and bite issues.
- Aesthetic Appeal: People often feel more confident wearing ceramic braces because they aren’t as visible.
Are Ceramic Braces Right for You?
Ceramic braces might be a great fit if you’re looking for a discreet teeth-straightening option. However, there are a few factors to consider before making a decision:
- Aesthetic Preferences: Ceramic braces are a good choice if you want a less pronounced treatment but need more correction than other solutions, like clear aligners, can provide.
- Oral Hygiene Commitment: Ceramic braces require careful cleaning to prevent staining around the brackets.
- Duration: While ceramic braces provide the same results as metal braces, you may need to wear them slightly longer (in some cases). This is because ceramic brackets are not quite as durable as metal ones.
What to Expect During Treatment
Getting ceramic braces starts with an initial consultation. During this appointment, your orthodontist will assess your teeth and develop a customized plan. Once your braces are placed, periodic adjustments will ensure steady progress.
You must maintain good oral hygiene while your braces are in place. Follow dietary guidelines as well to avoid staining or damaging the brackets. Your orthodontist will share recommendations on how to care for your braces for the best outcomes.
Why Choose Advanced Orthodontic Care?
Since our founding in 1999, Advanced Orthodontic Care has been committed to giving patients smiles they love. Dr. Robert Rudman and Dr. Jeff Birg use cutting-edge techniques to enhance comfort and efficiency in all our services, from ceramic braces to Invisalign.
Our in-house lab streamlines treatment, saving you time while ensuring precision. We also offer online scheduling, faster bracket placement, and personalized care plans. Our passionate team prioritizes the patient experience and works hard to make your orthodontic journey as smooth as possible.
FAQs
How Do Ceramic Braces Compare in Cost To Traditional Metal Braces?
Ceramic braces typically cost more than traditional metal braces. The higher price reflects the materials used to create tooth-colored or clear brackets, as well as the additional care sometimes required during treatment.
While both options straighten teeth using similar mechanics, ceramic brackets are designed to blend in more naturally with your smile, which many patients find appealing. The overall cost can vary depending on the complexity of your case, treatment length, and whether both arches are treated.
During a consultation, your orthodontist can provide a detailed estimate and discuss available payment options.
Are Ceramic Braces More Likely To Break Than Metal Braces?
Ceramic braces are strong and durable, but they are generally not quite as tough as traditional metal brackets. Because ceramic is a more brittle material, chipping or cracking under excessive pressure is slightly more common. That said, breakage is uncommon when patients follow dietary guidelines and avoid hard or sticky foods.
Advancements in orthodontic materials have made modern ceramic brackets much more resilient than earlier versions. With proper care and regular checkups, ceramic braces are highly reliable throughout treatment for most patients.
Do Ceramic Braces Stain Over Time?
The ceramic brackets themselves are designed to resist staining. However, the small elastic ties that hold the wire in place can discolor over time, especially if you frequently consume coffee, tea, red wine, curry, or other deeply pigmented foods and drinks. Good oral hygiene and mindful dietary habits can help minimize discoloration.
During routine adjustment visits, your orthodontist typically replaces the elastic ties to maintain a clean appearance. Brushing after meals and attending scheduled appointments are key to keeping ceramic braces as discreet as possible.
How Often Will I Need Adjustment Appointments With Ceramic Braces?
Most patients with ceramic braces visit their orthodontist every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. During these appointments, the orthodontist will tighten or adjust the archwire and monitor tooth movement to ensure treatment progresses as planned.
The schedule is generally similar to that of traditional metal braces. However, exact timing will depend on your treatment plan and how your teeth respond.
Attending all recommended visits is important for staying on track and achieving your desired results within the estimated treatment timeframe.
Are Ceramic Braces Safe for People With Metal Sensitivities?
Ceramic braces can be a good option for individuals with certain metal sensitivities because the brackets are made of a tooth-colored ceramic rather than stainless steel. However, it’s important to note that other components, such as wires, may still contain metal.
If you have a known allergy or sensitivity, discuss it with your orthodontist before starting treatment. They can consider your medical history and determine whether alternative materials or specific modifications are appropriate to help you move forward comfortably and safely.
Are Ceramic Braces Removed the Same Way as Metal Braces?
Yes, ceramic braces are removed using a process similar to that of traditional metal braces. Once your teeth have reached their desired positions, your orthodontist will carefully detach each bracket using specialized instruments. The remaining adhesive is then polished off the teeth to restore a smooth surface.
While the removal technique is comparable, your orthodontist will take extra care due to the slightly different properties of the ceramic material. After removal, you’ll typically receive retainers to help maintain your new alignment and protect your results long term.
Schedule a Consultation for Ceramic Braces in Denver
If you’re ready to explore whether ceramic braces are the right choice for you, the team at Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver is here to help.
Schedule your consultation today to learn more about ceramic braces. Call or text us at 303-331-0222 or submit our contact form today!