Ceramic Braces at St. Leonards Green Dental
Have you been thinking about getting braces? The idea of wearing traditional orthodontic appliances may be holding you back. If it is, you’ll be thrilled to learn about a more subtle alternative: ceramic braces.
What Are Ceramic Braces?
These orthodontic appliances work the same way as traditional metal braces, except they’re made of ceramic, tooth-coloured materials. When you wear them, they blend in with your smile.
Although you can see ceramic braces up close, they’re unnoticeable during everyday conversations that you have at work or with friends.
Ceramic braces offer a discreet solution for patients who require traditional orthodontics to correct more significant tooth misalignment. They’re the perfect choice for people who may not qualify for removable clear aligners.
Keeping Your Ceramic Braces Clean
Wearing any type of braces requires a good home hygiene plan to minimise buildup or stain around your appliances. Too much plaque around your braces can lead to demineralisation and white circles that are visible when your appliances are removed. Here are a few important steps to keep in mind:
- Brush twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste
- Floss or use a water flosser around each tooth daily
- Book regular scale and clean appointments twice per year
- Consider investing in an electric toothbrush
Ceramic Braces vs. Aligners
For most of our adult orthodontic patients, there will need to be a decision about whether removable aligners or fixed braces are best. The answer in your situation will depend on the anatomy of your bite and alignment of each tooth.
While aligners can correct some types of severe orthodontic concerns, they work best on mild to limited, moderate cases. When more significant tooth movement needs to take place (such as fixing rotated teeth or teeth with moderate gaps), it is usually more predictable to use fixed appliances.
Fortunately, ceramic braces provide both aesthetic and functional advantages. They’re the perfect alternative for people who don’t qualify for ClearCorrect™️.
What to Expect
If you’re considering ceramic braces, the first thing we’ll do is see you for an exam and consultation. At this visit we’ll evaluate your biting patterns, discuss any concerns you have and take a series of impressions and X-rays.
Next, we’ll outline the proposed treatment. You’ll have a good idea as to the time commitment and specific financial investment before moving on to the following step. If you’re ready to start treatment, we’ll put your ceramic braces on the same day or arrange for you to come back for a placement appointment.
Throughout your treatment, we’ll see you every 6-8 weeks to make minor adjustments necessary to straighten your teeth. While everyone’s case is different, our patients generally complete their orthodontic therapy in an average of 12 months. If we’re just straightening a limited number of teeth — like the ones at the front of your smile — it can take as little as six months.
IT’S TIME FOR A STRAIGHTER SMILE
Contact us today to schedule a ceramic braces consultation with our family dentist. You’ll find out if they’re right for you! We also offer conventional braces and ClearCorrect™️ aligners.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.