What Are Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic braces are a type of orthodontic appliance that you can use in many different situations. They are made of clear ceramic with metal brackets. And they offer the best chance for success because they do not damage teeth or gums.
They also provide more stability than other types of braces. This is because the materials absorb less moisture from saliva and food particles. This means your treatment time will be shorter! In this post, I will discuss what ceramics braces are. I’ll also list down their benefits and other useful information.
Benefits of Ceramic Braces
- Long-lasting results due to the material – Although ceramic braces have been around for some time, many people are hesitant to get them. That’s because they fear that they will not endure the therapy or need to replace them. They are also difficult to damage and will last throughout your treatment.
- They are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. This makes them more appropriate for adults who don’t want their teeth fixed in a major way. Or even children whose parents feel they won’t handle having visible orthodontic work done.
- Affordable – They are quite affordable when you consider the long-term benefits. This makes them ideal to consider if you are on a budget. Or do not have insurance that covers orthodontic work.
- You can use these braces to correct a wide variety of orthodontic problems. This means they are versatile and used for people of all ages.
Disadvantages of Ceramic Braces
- They are too large – Ceramic braces are larger than metal braces on older versions because today’s bracket sizes are smaller. Although modern braces have fewer brackets, ceramic braces have bigger ones than traditional metal ones. This might be off-putting for some people. However, the size of the braces should be offset by their tooth color apprearance.
- They cannot handle too much pressure – While these braces are sturdy, it’s easy to damage them if you expose them to too much pressure over a long period. For teeth that need lots of treatment, your dentist might recommend metal braces instead.
- Easily stain teeth – They are connected to your teeth using tiny rubber bands, like metal braces. Rubber is a permeable material. The longer it stays in your mouth, the more likely it stains and discolors your teeth. Teeth staining isn’t unusual with braces in general, and your orthodontist can light stains when the brace is removed.
How Much Do Ceramic Braces Cost?
Ceramic braces can cost anywhere from $4000 to $8000. While this is more expensive than traditional metal braces, the benefits of ceramic braces will outweigh their price tag. Metal braces or clear, detachable aligners such as Invisalign can cost anywhere from $3000 to $6000.
Unfortunately, most health and dental insurance plans don’t cover ceramic braces. You’ll probably need to get an additional orthodontic plan. For kids and adults, the requirements for these plans vary considerably by state.
Even if your dental insurance covers orthodontic treatment, it may not cover braces if you get them for aesthetic rather than therapeutic reasons. They also don’t correct a major malocclusion or other dental condition that limits normal oral performance as an adult.
What Is the Difference Between Ceramic and Metal Braces?
Ceramic braces are made of clear materials that can be less visible on your teeth than metal braces. They work the same way as metal braces, but they can sometimes take longer to correct your alignment.
Metal braces feature stainless steel and are more common than ceramic braces. They work quickly to correct your alignment and usually don’t cause pain or discomfort.
The best type for you will depend on several factors, such as the severity of your misalignment, how long you’ve had it, and whether you’re susceptible to tooth decay. Your dentist will be able to advise you on which type of brace is most appropriate for you.
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Are Ceramic Braces Durable?
Ceramic braces are less durable than metal ones because ceramic is more susceptible to shattering. If you play sports or take part in an extra-curricular activity that involves a lot of mouth movement — such as singing, debating, or speaking publicly — you might want to look for more durable metal braces that won’t chip or fracture often.
Do Ceramic Braces Damage Teeth?
Ceramic braces are made out of ceramic or plastic material designed to be strong and durable. They do not damage the teeth, but they need proper cleaning to maintain their condition. Therefore, you may stain these braces over time. But it is easy to whiten them up by using a simple home remedy that involves baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.
Additionally, they provide the same benefits as traditional metal braces. They are also much more aesthetically pleasing than their traditional counterparts, making teens who wear them feel better about themselves while they have to wear them for an extended period.
What Is the Length of Treatment for Ceramic Braces?
Compared to metal braces, ceramic braces take a year and a half to three years to straighten teeth.
However, ceramic braces aren’t that durable. This makes them wear down more quickly. You need to replace them more often. Therefore, this makes the treatment take longer.
In addition, these braces break easily. Due to this, it might take longer to straighten teeth. That’s because the orthodontist needs to fix any of the broken braces.
Conclusion
Overall, ceramic braces are a great option for many adults and children. The techniques used to create them have advanced considerably, making them lighter and less visible than ever before.
They also offer more freedom of color choice and the ability to design your look without anyone knowing it’s not natural. They can be an excellent way to enhance or change someone’s smile, so they feel confident again with their teeth!
