In the old days, the only type of braces available were the metal “railroad tracks.” These days there are several types of braces available, including ceramic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign®.
What are ceramic braces like?
Ceramic resemble the traditional metal braces in that they also have brackets and wires. They are also around the same size and shape.
The difference is that the brackets are made of a ceramic material that is either transparent or the same color as the patient’s teeth. The wires can also be tooth-colored.
Clear ceramic braces work best if the patient’s teeth are very light, while tooth-colored braces are better for teeth that have a normal or dark coloration.
One of the big advantages of ceramic braces is that they are a lot less obvious and visible than the traditional metal braces. It therefore makes sense to pick the type that blends in best with the patient’s teeth.
What are they made from?
Ceramic orthodontic brackets are made from either monocrystalline alumina or polycrystalline alumina. The main difference between the two materials is their appearance. Monocrystalline alumina, also known as monocrystalline sapphire, is translucent while polycrystalline alumina is whitish.
The alumina compounds have the advantages of being sturdy and non-porous. The latter trait makes them stain resistant.
The archwire may still made of metal, but it can be silver-colored, white or frosted. The latter two options make the wireless visible. The rubber bands will similarly be transparent or whitish to match the braces and blend in with the patient’s teeth.
While such rubber bands are more likely to become stained, the orthodontist generally changes them every month anyway.
What are the advantages of ceramic braces?
The main advantage of ceramic braces, especially the transparent type, is aesthetics: They are far less visible than the traditional metal braces. As a result, they appeal to adults and older teens who want their teeth straightened – but don’t want a “tin grin.” Some people say that ceramic braces are also more comfortable than metal braces.
Lingual braces also call for specialized skills that not all orthodontists have, which means it can be hard to find an orthodontist who can install or maintain them. Ceramic braces, by contrast, are quite similar to metal braces, so it is fairly easy to find an orthodontist who works with them.
Ceramic braces, like metal braces, can be used to treat fairly severe alignment problems.
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule a consultation, contact Ragan Orthodontics today.
