Ceramic BracesGainesville, VA
Ceramic braces are an orthodontic alternative to traditional metal braces. People who are conscious of their image can opt for these braces since they are less noticeable on teeth than metal braces. If you want straighter teeth but want a more discreet option, ceramic braces may be right for your needs.
Find out if ceramic braces are right for you. Our team at Gainesville Orthodontics in Gainesville and the surrounding area can determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment. Call us today at 571-367-3390 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Ceramic Braces vs. Traditional Braces
Ceramic braces have a similar design to traditional metal braces. Both orthodontic options straighten teeth by applying pressure to move them into alignment over time. The main difference between the two orthodontic appliances is the materials they utilize. While ceramic braces consist of more aesthetically pleasing tooth-colored or clear brackets and wires, traditional braces consist of medical-grade stainless steel.
Although ceramic braces have a better cosmetic appearance, they are not as durable as traditional braces. According to a 2016 study, ceramic braces are more than twice as likely to break or fracture. Ceramic braces can treat most of the same orthodontic issues as traditional braces but may require a longer treatment process. The risk of ceramic bracket breakage means that they may not be able to treat more extreme malocclusions that require major structural changes to the mouth.
Check out what others are saying about our Ceramic Braces services on Yelp: Ceramic Braces in Gainesville
Benefits of Ceramic Braces
The more discreet appearance of ceramic braces means that they fit into a person’s smile without distracting from it. These braces are almost invisible in photos and less noticeable in person. The smooth and rounded brackets in ceramic braces also cause less irritation to the gums and lips, making treatment more comfortable.
Our team can customize the shade of each ceramic braces component so they meet each patient’s preferences. Brackets can be clear or tooth-colored to match the patient’s natural teeth color. Patients may also choose silver, white, or frosted archwires, and various elastic band colors.
Candidates for Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are a good option for people who want to straighten their teeth but do not like the look of metal braces. Their less visible appearance makes ceramic braces a great alternative for students and working adults who do not want to feel self-conscious about wearing noticeable metal wires and brackets. Although many people can benefit from ceramic braces, they are not for everyone.
Since ceramic braces are susceptible to breakage and staining, patients must have enough responsibility to care for this appliance properly. Ceramic braces are best for patients who have stopped or almost stopped growing and have all of their permanent teeth. This development stage lowers the risk of bracket breakage and allows for more effective orthodontic correction.
Taking Care of Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces wearers must maintain proper dental hygiene routines and take the necessary precautions to keep their appliance fully functional and looking its best. The lighter color of ceramic braces means that they are more likely to stain. While the bracket material is stain-resistant, the elastics that connect the archwires to the brackets are not. Limiting the consumption of darker foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and tomato sauce, can help keep ceramic braces looking clear and discreet. We recommend drinking from a straw and brushing teeth immediately after eating to reduce the risk of staining.
People should also be careful to avoid breaking their ceramic braces since they consist of more delicate materials. It is best to avoid biting hard objects and sticky or crunchy foods, including:
- Gum
- Hard candy
- Ice
- Popcorn
- Nuts
If any component of the ceramic braces has broken or fractured, patients should contact us as soon as possible to fix the issue and keep their treatment plan on track.
The Process of Placing Ceramic Braces
Before we begin the process of placing ceramic braces, we must first clean and prepare the patient’s teeth. Once the teeth are cleaned and dried, we will attach ceramic brackets to each tooth with a strong but tooth-friendly bonding agent. After the adhesive sets, we will use a special blue light to harden it.
We will anchor the braces to the patient’s back molar with metal bands that fit around the teeth. Then we will attach and secure the archwires to each bracket before trimming the wire ends to prevent them from poking the back of the mouth. The entire process takes about one to two hours, depending on the placement of the braces.
Call Us Today
If you are looking for an effective orthodontic treatment that discreetly blends with your smile, ceramic braces may be right for you. Our team at Gainesville Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 571-367-3390 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should not get ceramic braces?
Ceramic braces are not ideal for everyone. Although modern ceramic materials are stronger than before, these brackets are still more likely to break than traditional braces. People who play contact sports or cannot commit to keeping their brackets clean and strain-free are not ideal candidates for this type of braces.
How much do ceramic braces cost?
Ceramic braces may cost more than traditional braces due to their more delicate and expensive materials. The cost will also vary depending on the patient’s orthodontic issues, the treatment length, and insurance. People interested in ceramic braces should contact their insurance provider for coverage information before seeking treatment.
What is the treatment length for ceramic braces?
The treatment length with ceramic braces may take longer than traditional braces since brackets will need replacing more often to prevent them from breaking under pressure. This can result in a slower adjustment time and delays in straightening. Ceramic braces can take about a year and a half to three years to straighten teeth.
Can ceramic braces treat the same malocclusions as traditional braces?
Ceramic braces can treat many of the same malocclusions as traditional braces. However, patients with more severe orthodontic issues, such as excessive overbites, may need metal braces to treat their concerns. Our team will determine whether ceramic braces can help a patient improve the health and appearance of their smile.
What should I expect after receiving ceramic braces?
Once we attach the braces on a patient, they can return to their normal activities without any downtime. Their mouths may feel sore for the first few days as their teeth begin to shift. This is normal, and patients can take over-the-counter pain relievers to minimize any discomfort.
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