Ceramic Braces
Some people think that receiving orthodontics treatment is purely cosmetic but this could not be further from the truth! Having teeth that are crooked and crowded are much harder to clean than straight teeth and that can quickly lead to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is evident when there is a buildup of plaque and tartar which allows bacteria to accumulate in the gum pockets. When the gum pockets are infected, the gums may begin to recede which can quickly lead to sensitivity at the root of the teeth, loss of bone structure, and even loss of teeth.
While it is true that there are cosmetic benefits to orthodontic treatment, a healthy smile is not only straight but allows for a proper bite. Malocclusion, or a bad bite, can lead to other issues such as headaches, jaw problems, and even trouble digesting food.
Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment that is used today. Braces can straighten teeth overtime and then a retainer can be used to maintain your new beautiful smile. ceramic braces are one type of braces which we will discuss here. Ceramic braces are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces and are a great option for children and adults alike.
Ceramic Braces vs Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are those metal brackets and wires that are very common. With traditional braces, metal brackets are cemented onto each tooth and a metal wire is threaded through the brackets to connect them and enable the orthodontist to tighten the braces as needed. There are ligatures placed over each bracket to hold the wire in place and these bands can be clear or sometimes people opt for colored bands.
Ceramic braces work much the same except the materials used to fabricate the braces is a clear ceramic material instead of a silver metal. With ceramic braces, the arch wire that is used to connect the brackets is white instead of metallic and the bands that are used to hold the wire in place are clear as well.
Any form of where the charger is likely to cause some sort of irritation inside your mouth but with a little orthodontic wax, brackets that rub your cheeks can be covered to minimize irritation.
How effective are ceramic braces?
Ceramic is not a strong material is metal so patients that have extreme overcrowding or misalignment will better benefit from the use of traditional braces. Ceramic braces are great for patients that do not need quite as much movement.
Ceramic braces do not apply as much pressure to teeth as metal braces do so they are not used for patients that have a drastic amount of movement to be achieved. If you do not have a severe case, ceramic braces might be great for you. Your orthodontist will be able to help you determine what type of braces would be most beneficial for your individual case.
How do I change my oral care routine to accommodate my ceramic braces?
Oral hygiene and braces! This is not a fun combination but it is important to maintain if not improve your oral care routine. The bands that hold the arch wire in place can discolor easily with highly pigmented foods and beverages. Smoking also causes yellowing of the ligatures so to keep your bands clear between orthodontic visits, avoid anything that will cause them to become dingy.
Hopefully you already brush twice a day with a soft bristle toothbrush but having braces might cause you to add an extra brush so that you are brushing your teeth after every meal. It is important to take care to get between brackets and to thoroughly brush along the gumline. When flossing, you may find it beneficial to you use an orthodontic threader so that you were able to get the floss between your teeth under the arch wires. Rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash it’s just one more way to strengthen your teeth as they shift to a new position.
How much do ceramic braces cost?
Orthodontic treatment is not cheap and some cost more than others. The cost of braces largely outweighs the cost of restorative treatment if you were to develop periodontal disease from crooked teeth.
The cost of traditional metal braces ranges from $5000 to $6000. If you and your Dentist decide that you are a candidate for ceramic braces, expect to pay an additional $500 to $600. Offices located in metropolitan areas are likely to be more costly than those in rural areas so if you live in a big city, you might consider a trip out to the suburbs for your orthodontic treatment. Some offices may offer in house financing or may work with a third-party financing company.
If you are considering braces for yourself or your child, speak with your dentist to determine what type would be best. Orthodontic treatment can bring confidence and a healthy, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime!
More on Braces : Clear Braces