Ceramic Braces Vs. Metallic Braces: Which Is Better?

Orthodontic procedures play a significant role in fixing crowded or misaligned teeth that result from various factors like thumb sucking. Initially, if you needed orthodontic treatment, your options would be limited to traditional metal braces. Today, you can choose a more comfortable and less visible option, such as ceramic braces.  

Similar to metal braces, ceramic orthodontic braces are recommended to straighten your teeth, treat jaw disorders, fix bite problems, and crooked teeth. However, unlike traditional braces, they consist of ceramic brackets that are attached to the surface of your teeth with rubber bands. These appliances restore your smile, improve your overall dental health, and reduce the chances of tooth decay or injury.

Advantages of ceramic braces

• Less noticeable: Generally, most people prefer ceramic orthodontic braces because they are less noticeable compared to other types of braces. Wearing ceramic braces is especially beneficial if you’re considering teeth alignment without feeling self-conscious.
• They work faster: Tooth-coloured braces take approximately 18 to 36 months to straighten your teeth. Additionally, ceramic orthodontic braces are a valid option for severe cases of teeth misalignment. Alternatively, you may also opt for Invisalign clear aligners. The Invisalign treatment system provides predictability and control of the outcome even before the treatment time is over.
• Offer colour varieties: With the ceramic type of braces, you can choose the colour for your orthodontic bands. You may select any of your favourite holiday hues, such as blue, red, or yellow. 
• Payment plans: Generally, braces made of ceramic cost around $3500 to $8000 for a full mouth. On the bright side, most dental offices offer payment plans to make the treatment more pocket-friendly. With this, there’s no reason for you not to have a perfect smile within a short timespan.
• Reduced size of brackets: The brackets’ size for ceramic types of braces is smaller as compared to metal brackets. Additionally, their size makes them less visible and less likely to cause discomfort or gum irritation. 

What you should expect during ceramic braces treatment

Generally, the type of dental procedure will vary depending on factors such as age, the severity of the problem, and the suitable treatment option. Usually, your first visit will involve a consultation and initial examination to determine if you’re well suited for the treatment.

• Once your dentist confirms that ceramic orthodontic braces are suitable for you, they will recommend you to an orthodontist.
• When you are at the orthodontist’s office, they will thoroughly clean and dry your teeth.
• Afterward, the orthodontist applies braces. He or she glues the brackets (small ceramic devices) that hold the wires in the right position on your teeth. 
• After applying glue, they shine a blue light on your teeth to ensure the glue sets.
• Afterward, your orthodontist will place an archwire that connects the brackets and applies pressure on your teeth to make them straight. 
• Typically, he or she attaches the orthodontic bands around your back molars to help anchor the braces. As this happens, you may feel some slight discomfort. However, this should not worry you as it’s a sign that you’re responding to the treatment. Here, you can choose your favourite colours to make the bands of your braces standout.
• After placing the archwires, your orthodontist trims the ends to ensure they don’t irritate your gums at the back of your mouth.

Aftercare tips for your braces

It’s essential to change your diet and consume soft foods to reduce the discomfort that comes when your braces are fitted. Some of these foods may include:

• Yogurt
• Fish
• Mashed potato
• Soft-cooked vegetables
• Scrambled eggs

After the procedure, you may also experience discomfort and sores in your mouth. Ask your orthodontist for the best pain relief medications to use. As for the sensitivity, they usually result from mild friction between your braces and the inside of your cheeks. Your dentist will give you wax to help you manage the discomfort when your gums are irritated. After one month, your mouth will adjust to the braces, and the irritation will disappear. 

To ensure you get the most out of this procedure and avoid the cons of ceramic braces, consider following these tips:

• Consult your orthodontist for best oral care tips to prevent gum disease 
• Throughout your orthodontic treatment, practice proper oral hygiene and floss daily
• Commit yourself to routine dental checkups with your Thornhill dentist; dental visits will ensure that your teeth are protected and your dentist will make necessary adjustments to ensure the ceramic material doesn’t fracture 
• Avoid foods or drinks such as coffee, tea, or wine that are prone to causing stains on the elastic bands holding the wire to the brackets