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What Are Ceramic Braces?

Ceramic braces are orthodontic braces that correct a person's bite and appearance. While traditional braces are made of metal brackets that attach to the front of the teeth, ceramic braces feature ceramic brackets that are subtler in appearance. Orthodontic patients of all ages opt for ceramic braces for aesthetic purposes, although there are some drawbacks.

  1. Purpose

    • Ceramic braces are used to straighten crooked teeth and/or properly align the jaw. The braces serve a cosmetic purpose, as they improve a person's orofacial appearance. They also improve a person's overall dental health, particularly if the teeth or jaw are severely misaligned. Without correction, crowded and crooked teeth can be difficult to properly clean. A misaligned jaw can also be detrimental to a person's health, as it can cause pain by straining the mouth when a person chews food.

    Appearance

    • Ceramic braces have a very subtle appearance. They work in a traditional fashion, with an archwire connecting brackets that are glued to the front of each tooth. However, ceramic braces differ from the old-fashioned metal braces in that they are far less noticeable. The braces are made of off-white ceramic instead of metal, which helps the braces to blend in with the teeth. Rubber bands surrounding the brackets are also off-white, and, although the archwire is made of metal, it is very thin and hardly noticeable.

    Home Care

    • The home care for ceramic braces is no different than any other orthodontic braces. You should thoroughly clean your teeth after every meal. Since food particles can easily gather around the brackets and wires, it is vital that you brush and floss to prevent tartar buildup and cavities. You should avoid certain foods altogether, as they can loosen or even break the braces. These foods include hard candies, hard vegetables, bubble gum, nuts and pizza crust.

    Advantages

    • The primary advantage of ceramic braces is having the teeth and jaw aligned. However, many people opt for ceramic braces instead of metal braces because of the appearance. Adults, in particular, often want a subtle appearance when it comes to wearing braces. Ceramic braces are durable in strength, precise with their straightening and barely noticeable. Some people report that ceramic braces are also more comfortable than metal braces.

    Disadvantages

    • Ceramic braces do have a few disadvantages. One drawback is that the off-white rubber bands and brackets can become stained. Those who drink a lot of coffee, tea, soda or red wine are at the highest risk of staining the ceramic braces. Another disadvantage is that ceramic braces cost more than metal braces. According to ArchWired.com, one of the leading Websites about orthodontics, Ceramic braces cost approximately $500 more than a set of metal braces.

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