Do Ceramic Braces Take Longer?

Your teeth are healthy – a major plus. They are sparkling white, thanks to your diligence in keeping them clean. However, you tend to hide them by closing your mouth. The problem is they are not aligned properly. You are not alone. Many people struggle with orthodontic issues that affect their teeth. Regardless of what kind of problem you have with the alignment of your teeth, there is nothing that you can do about it by yourself. You know that you are going to need help from an expert who focuses on the alignment of your teeth. That means seeing an orthodontist. You also realize that braces are going to be recommended to shift your teeth into a more appealing position. You don’t want your mouth to be filled with metal that is going to stand out. You prefer the option of ceramic braces. You want to know the bottom line about this newer alternative in the field of orthodontics. Do ceramic braces take longer?

Understanding the Difference with Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are going to be the same shape and size as metal brackets. However, your ceramic brackets can be the same color as your teeth or clear. This means they’ll blend in. They’re more discreet when it comes to straightening your teeth. You may also find that they are less abrasive to your mouth. They’ll be effective in helping you to move your teeth where they should go. 

Ceramic Braces are Not as Strong as Metal Braces

While ceramic braces are an appealing alternative to help you get straighter teeth, they aren’t as durable as metal braces. You take the risk of needing replacement brackets when they break down from daily wear and tear. Your treatment time is likely to last about a year and a half to three years. It may be slightly longer than metal brackets, but it really depends on how you respond to treatment. Everyone has a unique response to braces. Your orthodontist can give you an estimated timeline for any type of orthodontic treatment. 

The Wait Will be Worth the Benefits

No matter how long it takes to get results, most patients will tell you ceramic braces are worth it. You won’t have to feel self-conscious about your teeth while they are gradually getting straighter. In the end, you will have the smile you want. Whether it takes a year or three years, you will be happy to show off your pearly whites when it is all over. 

Can Ceramic Braces Become Stained?

While ceramic braces are an attractive alternative to metal braces, potential staining is one drawback. Tea, coffee, and drinks with dye can stain your brackets. If you need to wear bands that are clear or white, these can become stained too. Bands can easily be changed. It’s another story when it comes to your ceramic braces. It’s not necessary to give up drinks that could result in stains. Be prepared. When you are done, brush and rinse immediately. You can also try using a straw. This could cut back on your risk of staining. 

Ceramic Braces Give You a Discreet Option When Invisalign Won’t Work

Many people choose ceramic braces simply because they aren’t noticeable. Invisalign offers you another alternative that doesn’t stand up. However, not everyone is a good candidate for the clear aligners. If you have a more severe problem with the alignment of your teeth, braces are more likely to be recommended for you. You will need a professional opinion from an orthodontist to determine if you can go with removable aligners or if you will need braces. 

Ceramic Braces are More Comfortable than Braces Worn Behind Your Teeth

In addition to ceramic braces, braces fixed behind your teeth give you another option that is not noticeable. The problem is you may have difficulty becoming accustomed to brackets on the back of your teeth. They may irritate your mouth. They could even affect the way you talk. 

You’ll Need to Pay Attention to What You Eat

If you have to choose braces over clear aligners, you’ll need to be careful about what you eat. This holds true whether you have ceramic or metal braces. Beware of anything that is going to apply pressure to your wires or brackets. You’ll have to steer clear of gum, taffy, caramel, and other chewy candies. If you love apples, you should start cutting them into slices. Biting into the crunchy fruit could do damage to your braces. Corn on the cob could also be a problem. You’ll need to slice off the corn to avoid getting your wires or brackets hooked on the popular vegetable. Popcorn could be a no-no as well because it can get trapped beneath your wires and cause them to shift. You don’t have to completely pass up these favorites. It may just mean modifying how you eat them or taking great care with smaller bites. 

Oral Hygiene Becomes More Challenging

Once you get braces applied, be prepared to have a more challenging time when it comes to keeping your teeth clean. You’ll have to take great care with your toothbrush. Flossing won’t be easy. You might want to get a pick or something that will help you to rinse between your teeth. Don’t slack off just because it’s harder. You want your teeth to be healthy when those braces come off. Use mouthwash regularly to help rinse away debris in your mouth. 

Think of the Long Term Benefits

While braces bring challenges, they also bring many rewards. Your patience will pay off when your clear braces are removed to reveal your smile transformation. Straight teeth are easier to brush. You’ll find it’s easier to floss when your teeth aren’t crowded together. Your beautiful smile will give you more confidence. You’ll also reap health benefits. You’ll be more motivated to maintain your smile, spending more time on oral hygiene. Healthy teeth are going to last as you get older, allowing you to continue to eat the foods you love. When you keep your teeth healthy, dental visits will become routine checkups. You can avoid major bills with severe problems due to neglect. 

Properly Aligned Teeth Can Mean a Better Night’s Rest

Get your teeth lined up in the proper position and you could actually sleep better. Sleep apnea, a condition in which the airway is obstructed during sleep, is often connected to an improper bite. Your ceramic braces will correct your bite. The end result can mean you’ll breathe easier while you are resting. 

Avoid Problems with Your Jaw Joint

Your jaw acts like a hinge. It’s put through a great deal of strain every day when you eat or talk. If your teeth aren’t in proper alignment, it can cause TMJ disorders. Inflammation of the jaw joint can lead to issues like a locked jaw, pain, and an annoying popping noise when you chew. Choose clear braces and you might not face issues with your jaw. 

How Do You Get Started with Clear Braces?

Getting braces is going to mean going through a process. Begin by meeting with an orthodontist. Your general dentist will concentrate on your overall oral health. Your orthodontist is going to focus on the placement of your teeth. Expect your teeth to be evaluated visually first. The next step will be the use of digital imagery. X-rays and 3D technology are used to give your orthodontist the big picture about your teeth. Only then will you be able to have an orthodontic treatment plan. 

Your Orthodontic Plan is Going to be a Personal Approach

Every patient who sits in an orthodontist’s chair is unique. Your treatment plan will be specifically designed to meet your needs. This will include your preference of ceramic braces over other types of braces to give you more confidence during treatment. You will be given a timeline for when you can expect to see your final outcome for braces. You may need to have some teeth removed to allow your teeth to have more room. If you have any problems with your oral health, your orthodontist will want you to get them taken care of first. Your teeth should be healthy before braces are applied. Plan on coming in for regular visits to see how effective your braces are. You can also expect your teeth to be tender at times as your braces apply pressure. You will adjust. When your braces come off, a retainer will come next. This important appliance will help your teeth to stay in place. Eventually, you’ll only need it at night so no one will know you are wearing it. 

Talk to Your Orthodontist about Ceramic Braces Today

Whether you are a teenager or an adult, ceramic braces can transform your teeth, giving you the smile you have always wanted. You do not have to settle for crooked teeth, gaps, or a problem with your bite an any age. To learn more, feel free to reach out and make an appointment with Bowman DMD. At our convenient locations in Fort Walton and Niceville, our orthodontist will sit down with you to discuss your goals for your teeth. You can also ask about all your treatment options to find out if ceramic braces are the way to go for you. Your orthodontist will perform a thorough evaluation of your teeth to plan out your treatment. You’ll take the journey together as you work on getting a straight set of teeth that will make you happy. Contact us today to set up your consultation!

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