Ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets, making them much more discreet than traditional metal brackets. Clear or white elastic ties to connect the brackets with the arch wire may also be used, which help make them even less noticeable. These special braces are great if appearance is an important factor during your orthodontic treatment.

They are slightly more brittle than metal brackets, which mean they may break more easily than metal braces depending on a patient’s bite or chewing habits. To prevent this, some orthodontists will put ceramic braces on the top teeth and traditional metal braces on the bottom teeth to avoid breakage when biting down.

This material will not stain with regular brushing and flossing, however the elastic ties are more porous and may become stained. This is generally only a major concern if you either smoke or your diet consists of deeply colored food or drink, like curry or black coffee. Fresh, new elastics are replaced each time you have a check-up, which is about once a month.

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