Ceramic braces let you straighten your teeth without sacrificing your white smile. They’re popular, and our patients often have questions about clear braces—what they can and can’t eat with them, what they cost, whether they can even get them, and more. We put together a list of frequently asked questions that should help you decide whether or not ceramic braces are right for you!
Ceramic Braces FAQs
What are ceramic braces?
Ceramic braces are made of clear, ceramic brackets that adhere to the front of your teeth. They look just like regular metal braces, except they’re clear and the brackets are slightly smaller than metal brackets. The archwire that connects each bracket and actually does the work to shape the teeth can be either silver or white. This makes the braces nearly invisible, especially in photos.
They work just like metal braces, except they’re clear! Most people choose to use clear bands with their ceramic braces, but you can still use colored bands if you want.
Do ceramic braces stain?
The brackets themselves probably won’t get stained. The clear bands that connect the archwire to the brackets are more likely to get stained. Those get replaced every few weeks anyway, so if they do get stained then you can just get them replaced at your next appointment.
Dark and colored foods and drinks will stain clear bands. Try to avoid foods like dark soda, coffee, curry, and spaghetti sauce. These will stain your bands. Every time you eat, rinse with water or mouthwash and your brackets themselves shouldn’t stain. Check out this blog post for a few ways to prevent braces stains.
Do ceramic braces take longer than metal braces?
They don’t take longer than metal brackets! Clear braces are just as strong as silver metal braces, so your orthodontist can put as much pressure on your ceramic braces as they would on metal braces. Most patients wear braces for 1–3 years, whether they’re white, clear, or silver.
Do ceramic braces cost more?
They do cost slightly more than metal braces. The materials are more expensive, so the initial cost of the braces is higher. Metal braces generally cost between $3,000 and $7,000, and clear ceramic braces are usually between $4,000 and $8,000. Talk to your orthodontist, though, as costs vary by city and orthodontist.
If you don’t like the look of traditional metal braces, then the slightly more expensive clear braces are worth it.
Can anyone get them?
Ceramic braces are best for older teens and adults who can watch what they eat and drink. Most adults who come in to straighten their teeth opt for clear ceramic braces. Children generally have a hard time keeping the braces clear, so metal brackets are best for them. Your orthodontist will let you know what they recommend and if clear braces are an option for you.
At Hansen Orthodontics we offer a number of different types of braces, including both clear and metal braces. Give us a call if you’re in the Las Vegas and Henderson area and you’re looking to straighten your teeth! We’ll set up a time for you to come in for a free consultation.