Ceramic braces are made of composite materials with varying levels of color and transparency. Clear brackets are made of clear ceramic or a polycarbonate (plastic) or sometimes both. The wires used to connect the brackets are usually made of nickel and titanium. Clear plastic aligners, on the other hand, are made of acrylic, which is another type of plastic.
Ceramic braces can be made to match the color of your natural teeth, so they are less obvious than metal braces. This option appeals to those who wish to hide the fact that they are wearing braces but need traditional braces to accomplish their orthodontic goals. Tooth-colored wires are usually used in conjunction with ceramic braces to provide maximum aesthetics.
Clean Your Braces!
Keeping your braces clean is an important step to maintaining that “hidden” look. Use a regular toothbrush or an electric toothbrush two to four times a day with a NON-whitening toothpaste, as well as floss at least once a day to keep the ceramic brackets clean.
If the brackets are not cleaned regularly, they will turn yellow. If you attempt to brush with a whitening toothpaste you will discover the whitening takes effect only on the white parts of your teeth that are NOT covered by the brackets. Whitening products have no effect on the braces themselves.
To keep away the yellow and maintain a clear, hidden look, brush MORE often with a toothpaste like Crest Complete, which contains no whitening.
If you want to learn more about getting clear braces in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and would like to schedule an appointment with our orthodontist, Dr. Rhoda Lockett, please call Lockett Orthodontics today at 719-309-6823!