Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces consist of wires and clear, ceramic brackets. These brackets are glued to the front of your teeth. The wires (one for each set of teeth) are attached to the brackets with transparent, tiny elastics called ligatures. Ceramic braces function just like traditional braces: the wire is shaped into the ideal position of your teeth, then threaded through the brackets. As the wires struggle to get back to their original shape, they gradually pressure your teeth into that shape as well. Your orthodontist will tighten the wires every four to six weeks. The treatment time is usually the same length as metal braces, and the results are the same.

Ceramic braces do have some disadvantages, though:

• Ceramic brackets are not as strong as metal braces. Orthodontists often use metal brackets for more complex cases.
• Ceramic brackets are slightly larger than metal brackets (though this is only noticeable close up)
• Clear ligatures are more susceptible to stain (if you smoke, drink coffee, etc.)
• Treatment takes slightly longer
• Ceramic braces are slightly more expensive