If you’re wanting the subtlety of clear aligners but don’t mind the idea of brackets and wires, our Gainesville and Lake City, FL, orthodontists may have the perfect compromise for you: ceramic braces. They’re proven to be effective at correcting bite issues, overcrowding, and can be made to perfectly match your natural enamel.
Here’s what you should know about ceramic braces as an orthodontic treatment option.
Advantages of Ceramic Braces
There are several . One of which is their low visibility. Instead of being made from stainless steel like traditional braces, the brackets used for are made of polycrystalline alumina. This material is what helps the braces match your enamel shade.
It’s also appreciated by many patients that ceramic braces:
- Move teeth at a slightly faster rate than Invisalign® aligners
- Effectively treat a range of mild to severe bite issues
- Are ideal for adult orthodontic patients or those in highly visible professions who may feel self-conscious with metal braces
Ways Ceramic Braces Can Enhance Your Smile
While metal braces remain the most durable option, ceramic braces don’t hold back when it comes to what they can fix. Improvements have also been made to ceramic braces since their introduction to allow for enhanced strength, efficiency, and greater patient comfort.
If you’re unsure of whether they’re right for you, don’t hesitate to ask our orthodontists or the rest of our trained staff. We’d be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
Problems fixable with ceramic braces include:
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Open bites
- Crossbites
- General overcrowding
- Gaps or spaces in between teeth
Once improved alignment has been achieved, you will have a reduced risk of developing cavities or gum disease. Of course, daily oral hygiene will still need to be performed if you want to fully prevent either. In addition, you should find that chewing is much easier than it was with overlapped or crowded teeth.
Practice Daily Care With Ceramic Braces
As with any type of braces, care should be taken throughout treatment. That means avoiding crunchy, sticky, or overly chewy foods until after your braces are removed. Examples include caramel, corn on the cob, and popcorn to name a few. Refraining from eating foods of this kind will save your brackets from unnecessary damage.
It’s also important to keep your ceramic braces clean. Our orthodontists recommend that you gently brush your teeth at least 2 times a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Brushing and flossing regularly after meals will help to remove plaque and prevent the clear bands around your ceramic brackets from staining.
Further prevent stains from happening by:
- Avoiding smoking
- Steering clear or limiting your consumption of dark colored foods and drinks if possible (coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato sauce)
- Visiting your general dentist regularly for teeth cleanings and exams
Give Us a Call Today
Ceramic braces are that great in-between option when you’re not set on either metal braces or clear aligners. Have additional questions? Our , are available to speak with you about ceramic braces. Call one of our Progressive Orthodontic Associates offices today or request an appointment online.
