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If you want a straighter smile, but don’t want metal braces (and aren’t a candidate for clear aligners, either), there are still other options out there. Although they’re not invisible, ceramic braces are less obvious than traditional braces, with clear, white or frosted options for brackets, wires and rubber bands.
Ceramic braces correct the same issues as metal braces. And while ceramic braces are more fragile and costly than metal braces, they may leave you feeling less self-conscious about your smile. Here’s what to consider if you’re thinking about getting ceramic braces.
Ceramic braces are less noticeable than traditional metal braces, says Michael Gorlovsky, D.M.D., an orthodontist at Windermere Orthodontics in Suwanee and Cumming, Georgia. Unlike silver-colored metal braces, ceramic braces are either tooth-colored, white, or clear; and the silver wire, or archwire, that connects the brackets comes in less conspicuous colors like white and frosted, he says.
Ceramic braces are fitted similarly to metal braces; brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth, and rubber bands (available in many different colors) are used to hold the archwire in place, Dr. Gorlovsky explains.
Despite their transparent appearance, ceramic braces function the same way as metal braces and treat the same problems, says Keith Kohrs, D.D.S., an orthodontist at Kohrs Orthodontics in Aurora, Colorado. The archwire connected to each bracket is designed to correct problems of alignment, bite and tooth placement, he explains; the rubber bands holding the archwire in place ensure the teeth move properly.
Here’s a quick comparison of ceramic and metal braces.
Ceramic braces are just as effective as traditional metal braces and provide a more aesthetic solution, says Dr. Kohrs. In principle, results should be exactly the same regardless of which type of brace is used, says Howard Fine, D.M.D., director of Orthodontics and clinical associate professor of Dental Medicine at Touro College of Dental Medicine.
The glue used to bond ceramic, and metal braces to the teeth can damage tooth enamel, says Dr. Gorlovsky. In fact, a 2019 study in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dentistry found that ceramic braces caused a reduction in the mineral content in tooth enamel (enamel demineralization)[2]Almosa NA, Sibai BS, et al. Enamel demineralization around metal and ceramic brackets: an in vitro study. Clin Cosmet Investig Dent. 2019;11:37-43. . Since ceramic braces have higher adhesion to the glue then metal braces, during the removal process, enamel under ceramic braces are at higher risk of being damaged.
Because ceramic brackets are larger in size, they can be more uncomfortable than metal braces, causing issues with lip and cheek irritation, says Dr. Davis. “They also can create some gum sensitivity and are harder to remove than metal braces,” adds Dr. Gorlovsky.
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Dr. Gorlovsky highlights the pros and cons of ceramic braces.
The total cost of ceramic braces falls between $4,000 and $8,000, according to Dr. Gorlovsky. “The average payments are $250 a month for a 24-month treatment time before insurance co-payments or financing fees are applied,” he says. “That’s around $6,000.”
Additional financing fees will be applied to most payment plans; the need for accessories like palate expanders or headgear will also increase cost, he says.
However, it’s important to note that most treatments will vary in cost based on location and even specific dentists or orthodontists.
Although insurance does cover a portion of the cost of ceramic braces when medically necessary, every policy is different, advises Dr. Gorlovsky. “Insurance may have exclusions, deductibles, copayments or maximums to be aware of,” he says, adding that insurance typically pays for about a third of the total cost.
What’s more, insurance coverage for ceramic braces often depends on the type of problem being solved, says Dr. Kohrs. If you’re getting ceramic braces simply because they are less noticeable and more stylish than traditional braces, the additional cost to use ceramic brackets may not be covered, he explains.
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Older teens and adults who are conscientious about what they eat and drink, as well as their oral health routine, may be good candidates for ceramic braces, according to Dr. Gorlovsky. “Ceramic braces are harder to keep clean, so those who get them need to be willing to take the time to properly brush and floss,” he says. That said, they’re a good option for those seeking a less visible option who don’t qualify for invisible aligners, adds Dr. Kohrs.
The best way to know if ceramic braces are right for you is to talk to your orthodontist, says Dr. Davis, and be sure to discuss your lifestyle, food preferences and finances. “This will help the orthodontist determine which treatment option is best for you,” he says.
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Heidi Borst is a freelance journalist, healthcare content writer and certified nutrition coach with a love of all things health and wellness. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Geographic, Good Housekeeping, MSN, Yahoo and more. Based in Wilmington, North Carolina, Borst is a lifelong runner and general fitness enthusiast who is passionate about the physical and mental benefits of sleep and self-care.
Tma Archwire Dr. Mauro Nunes has an extensive 26-year background in restorative dentistry and currently teaches full-time at the UNC Adams School of Dentistry in the division of comprehensive oral health, specializing in operative dentistry and biomaterials. His areas of interest include dentin and enamel adhesives, composite resins and tooth whitening systems.