Gone are the days of ugly metal braces as the only option for achieving straight, healthy-looking teeth. Today, you have multiple options for improving your smile. But when deciding between Invisalign and ceramic braces, you may not be sure what option is best for you. Read on for further information and a quick look at the pros and cons of both options, courtesy of our East Bay cosmetic dentistry team at Pro Smile Dental Care.
Introduction To Ceramic Braces
Also known as clear braces, ceramic braces are used to fix bite problems and straighten teeth. They are similar to traditional metal braces in that they include wires, rubber bands and brackets that fit the front surface of your teeth. However, the brackets are either clear or colored to match the natural shade of your teeth so that they are much less obvious-looking than traditional hardware. Alternatively, you can choose from an array of dazzling bracket colors to make an oral fashion statement.
Are Tooth-Colored Braces Expensive?
Ceramic braces tend to cost a little more than traditional metal. The treatment process is the same in that you will still need to have regular appointments to examine your teeth and have your braces tightened. The clear ligatures are prone to staining and are usually replaced at each appointment, unlike with metal braces, further raising the cost. However, clear braces tend to be cheaper than newer aligner-style orthodontic devices such as Invisalign.
Advantages Of Clear Braces
- Less Noticeable Than Traditional Hardware
- Durable — Do Not Chip, Crack, Or Break Easily
- Brackets Are Stain Resistant
- Easier On Your Gums And Cheeks Than Metal Braces
- Cheaper Than Removable Aligners
Disadvantages Of Clear Braces
- Larger Than Metal Braces
- More Expensive Than Traditional Options
- May Not Be Good For Severe Malocclusion
- Adjustments May Take Longer
- May Not Be Compatible With Teeth Whitening Treatments
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an innovative orthodontic treatment method that is a complete alternative to braces. Instead of attaching brackets and wires to your teeth, your orthodontist or dentist will fit you with a series of aligner trays that fit over your teeth and gently move them. At each return visit, your doctor will examine your teeth for progress and provide you with new aligners as needed.
More Comfortable & Convenient
One of the most significant advantages of the aligners is that they are fully removable so that you can brush and floss your teeth like normal. Invisalign aligners tend to be more comfortable than braces. Because you don’t have wires tightened and ligatures replaced, your appointments will be shorter and often can be scheduled less frequently than traditional orthodontic appointments. However, Invisalign does cost more than both traditional and clear braces.
More Pros Of Invisalign
- Great For Teens & Older Adults
- More Comfortable Than Braces
- Aligners Are Easy to Care For
- You Can Brush & Floss like Normal
- You Can Have Your Teeth Whitened
The Cons Of Invisalign
- More Expensive Than Braces
- Must Be Worn 22 Hours A Day
- Have To Be Removed When Eating
- Require You To Brush Your Teeth After Every Meal & Snack
Get Ceramic Braces Or Invisalign In The East Bay
If you or a family member are looking for straighter teeth and live in the Danville and San Ramon, CA area, our team at Pro Smile Dental Care would love to meet you. Helping our patients achieve a healthy and happy smile makes us smile, too. Call today to make an appointment and learn more.
