All About Ceramic Braces
We know, we know, if you’re a teen or adult who wants to improve your smile, you’re not thrilled about the idea of getting metal braces.
The good news is that you can choose an orthodontic treatment solution to get the smile results you want while being more subtle than metal braces.
Our clear braces at Bernstein Orthodontics don’t look as obvious on your teeth when compared to traditional metal braces. Clear braces align your teeth in the same manner as metal braces, but the ceramic brackets subtly blend in well with your natural tooth color.
Though they're not entirely invisible, and the brackets are about the same size and shape, they’re much less noticeable than metal braces.
PITTS 21 SELF-LIGATING CLEAR BRACES
Pitts 21 braces use the same gentle forces that regular self-ligating braces use but with the added benefit of having clear ceramic brackets instead of metal.
These self-ligating clear braces are more comfortable, provide faster results, and are more aesthetic than most other braces options.
To find out if clear braces would be a good fit for you, schedule your free consultation at Bernstein Orthodontics!
THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CERAMIC & METAL BRACES
Metal braces are known for their durability and strength. Ceramic braces are also tough, but they are made from a different, more fragile material that is more likely to chip or crack. Traditional braces are also better at tolerating pressure than newer ceramic ones.
If you need more drastic corrections, metal braces could be a better option. Adjustments with ceramic braces have to be slightly smaller, so it can take a little more time to align your teeth.
Having said that, both types of braces work on the same principles and can treat most orthodontic problems successfully.
You may be worried about ceramic braces staining, but that hasn’t been a problem for several years. Ceramic brackets won’t stain. But the adhesive used to attach the brackets to the teeth and the clear elastic ties used to hold the wires in can stain.
This can give an overall impression of discoloration or staining over time. You can choose to avoid things like coffee and tea, red wine, tomatoes, mustard, etc. to cut back on the chance of any staining. This isn’t necessary since we change your elastics at every adjustment appointment.
As long as you maintain a good oral hygiene routine, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about giving up your morning cup of coffee or evening glass of wine.
COST OF CERAMIC BRACES
One of the most significant factors that affect your treatment cost at Bernstein Orthodontics will be the materials used to make your braces.
At our offices in Santa Rosa and Windsor, you’ll find that clear ceramic brackets cost a little more than metal brackets.
The good news is at Bernstein Orthodontics, you’ll enjoy outstanding value for a reasonable cost. Choose from flexible payment plans and automatic bank drafts, and we will also check with your insurance company for orthodontic benefits.
Treatment fees will vary depending on how complex your orthodontic treatment is. We’ll determine a treatment fee that fits your specific orthodontic needs, and our office will do everything we can to accommodate you and your budget.
The work it takes to put your braces on, adjust them, and take them off must also be factored into the total treatment cost. Placing and removing ceramic braces is a sensitive technique and requires more time.
Our treatment coordinators will happily review the cost with you at your first free consultation at Bernstein Orthodontics.
BEST FOR ADULTS
After a thorough orthodontic evaluation with an orthodontist like Dr. Bernstein, we can determine which treatment option will be best for you and your smile.
Dr. Bernstein thinks ceramic braces are generally better suited to adults and older teens. This is because ceramic brackets are more likely to break and are more expensive than metal brackets.
Schedule your free consultation at Bernstein Orthodontics to learn if clear braces may be right for you.