Are Clear Ceramic Braces The Better Option For You?

If you have crooked or misaligned teeth affecting your facial aesthetics, orthodontic treatment is the best option to enjoy a healthy and attractive smile. However, choosing the right orthodontic treatment option is a challenging task for many people. They have to consider various factors – the cost, treatment duration, and most importantly, whether the orthodontic appliance would be visible when they wear it. If you are concerned about your appearance while undergoing orthodontic treatment, clear braces are one of the most aesthetically pleasing and reliable treatment options. 

This article discusses everything you need to know about clear braces and why they are a suitable treatment option. So, read on to find out more and make an informed decision about your treatment. 

What Do Clear Braces Look Like?

Clear braces have the same shape and design as the traditional metal braces. However, the only difference between them is that clear braces are made from tooth-coloured or transparent material, making them inconspicuous when you wear them. So, clear braces appear exactly as their name – virtually invisible. 

Do Clear Braces Stain? How Can You Prevent It If So?

Clear braces are made from two different materials; a transparent polymeric material or a tooth-coloured ceramic. The ceramic braces being white, have a higher tendency to get stained from foods and drinks than the clear braces. However, both types of clear braces get stained over time. Therefore, the best way to prevent staining is to ensure optimal oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing. Besides, you should also avoid strong-coloured foods and drinks like curry and red wine, coffee, and tea, which can stain the teeth and the clear braces. 

What Is The Difference Between Clear Braces And Clear Aligners?

As the name suggests, Clear braces are fixed appliances that are bonded to the teeth with an adhesive. The brackets in clear braces are made from a transparent or white-coloured material to make them aesthetically pleasing. Like traditional braces, clear braces have slots through which a tooth-coloured orthodontic metal wire passes through all the teeth, with elastic bands holding the wire attached to the teeth. On the other hand, According to the British Orthodontic Society, clear aligners are removable trays made from a transparent material that sits on the teeth. These aligners are designed to move your teeth in the desired position gradually. 

Can I Get Ceramic Braces If I Have High Canines?

There are two possible scenarios when we talk about “high canines”. First, if we consider very long upper canine teeth as “high canines”, then getting ceramic braces would be possible, only if the tip of the upper canine does not touch the lower ceramic bracket. If this happens, the upper canine tooth will immediately dislodge the bracket. 

On the other hand, if we consider canines as “high canines” when they are impacted and have not erupted completely into the oral cavity, there is no restriction to getting ceramic braces. Your dentist will recommend the best orthodontic treatment option based on your individual orthodontic treatment needs. 

How Much Does Ceramic Braces Cost?

Like all other aesthetic orthodontic treatment options, ceramic braces cost higher than traditional fixed braces. The price of ceramic braces varies according to their brand and the material used for their fabrication. On average, the cost of ceramic braces in the UK varies between £3,000 and £7,000. The treatment cost also depends on your locality, the qualification, and the skills of the treating dentist. Make sure to find out if payment plans are available before beginning your treatment. 

What Should One Know Before Getting Braces?

Whether traditional metal or clear, fixed braces are one of the most effective options for straightening teeth. However, before you accept them as a treatment option, you must consider the following factors. First, fixed braces tend to cause some pain and discomfort, especially during the initial few weeks of wearing. Secondly, you must avoid certain foods and drinks as they can dislodge the brackets:

• Caramel
• Sweets
• Sticky foods
• Fizzy drinks

Finally, oral hygiene maintenance becomes challenging with braces as the brackets, and the wires make it difficult to clean the area properly. 

Can Ceramic Braces Damage Your Teeth?

Ceramic braces are very hard, and they can damage your teeth if they are not placed properly. Furthermore, if you have a habit of grinding your teeth – known as bruxism – you should not get ceramic braces. This is because when you grind your teeth, the ceramic braces will contact the opposing tooth and result in its wear – leading to complications such as tooth sensitivity, decay and periodontal issues. 

Do Metal Braces Work Faster Than Invisalign?

Metal braces are among the time-tested and reliable orthodontic treatment options. Apart from their obvious unaesthetic metallic appearance, metal braces can be used to treat even the most complex orthodontic issues in a shorter duration; even those that clear aligners cannot fix. Generally, metal braces are more suitable for rapidly fixing complicated orthodontic problems involving the bite. 

Which Is Better, Ceramic Braces Or Clear Aligners?

All orthodontic treatment options are effective – whether fixed or removable. However, the primary consideration while choosing an orthodontic treatment option is the severity of the problem, patient compliance, and your budget. So, if you’re looking for comfort and convenience, clear aligners are a good option. However, if you have a complicated orthodontic issue, ceramic braces may be a more suitable alternative. When it comes to orthodontic treatment, the skill and the experience of the dentist matter a lot. If you live in Kidderminster and you’re looking for a reliable and high-class orthodontic practice, Cleobury dental is the best choice! We offer high-quality dental services by skilled dentists in a relaxing and comfortable environment. So, book an appointment today and let us take care of all your dental problems.