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By: Dr Stefan Abela ceramic braces / clear braces / crooked teeth / teeth straightening / tooth coloured braces No Comments

How Do Tooth Coloured Braces Compare To Other Treatments?

How Do Tooth Coloured Braces Compare To Other Treatments?

If your dentist has told you that you need braces, and you’re not happy with the idea of wearing those conspicuous and uncomfortable metal braces, no need to worry; there are other aesthetically more pleasing and convenient treatment options available for you to choose from. For example, you can get tooth-coloured ceramic braces for your treatment that blend with your teeth and are virtually invisible when worn. So, are you Interested in learning more about ceramic braces? This article explains everything you need to know about tooth-coloured fixed braces.

How Are Ceramic Braces Better Than Metal Braces?

Many prospective orthodontic patients would simply refuse treatment a few years ago because they did not want to wear the unaesthetic metal braces. However, things have changed now. Today, tooth-coloured ceramic braces are available that precisely match the colour and shade of your teeth and hence, they do not make you self-conscious about wearing braces. This is also the most significant advantage of ceramic braces over traditional metal braces. 

Why Is It Necessary To Straighten Your Teeth Alignment?

Our teeth perform several functions. First, they allow us to chew food properly to be broken down into smaller pieces and digested correctly. Secondly, our teeth enable us to pronounce words clearly. Finally, perfectly aligned teeth significantly improve one’s smile and facial aesthetics. If one has misaligned teeth, not only their ability to eat and speak normally will be affected, but they will also have a flawed smile. Therefore, getting your teeth straightened is necessary for cosmetic and functional reasons. 

What Are The Treatments Available For Straightening Teeth?

Modern dentistry offers several orthodontic treatment options and cosmetic treatments to fix tooth misalignment:

Among the fixed orthodontic appliances, these are some of the commonly used. Each brace system consists of brackets that are bonded to the teeth. Your dentist will use elastic bands to attach orthodontic wires to the brackets. Apart from fixed appliances, removable orthodontic systems like clear aligners are also available for straightening teeth. 

What Is The Difference Between Clear Braces And Clear Aligners?

Clear braces is a term used for fixed brace systems that are either made from a transparent or tooth-coloured ceramic material. Regardless of the material, clear braces remain bonded to the teeth and move them through the tension in the orthodontic wires attached to them with elastic bands. On the other hand, clear aligners are removable trays worn over the teeth, just like mouthguards. Clear aligners are designed to sit over the teeth and gradually move them in the desired direction. 

What Are Some Tips For Choosing The Colour Of Your Braces?

When we talk about the colour braces, it usually refers to the colour of the elastic ties.  Did you know that you could make your teeth appear whiter by selecting the right colour of elastic bands? People with yellow teeth should choose dark colours such as royal/navy blue or purple. You may also choose clear or silver-coloured elastic ties. Choosing light colours may cause them to stain quickly, making your teeth look stained. 

What Braces Colour Should One Avoid?

You should avoid getting elastic band colours such as white, yellow or golden. All these colours will make your teeth look yellower and stained. Instead, the idea is to wear dark-coloured bands that contrast with your teeth and make them look whiter. Your dentist or orthodontist can help you select a colour for your elastic bands that makes your teeth look whiter. 

Which Is Better, Ceramic Braces Or Clear Aligners?

Both these orthodontic treatment options have their pros and cons. Fixed appliances like ceramic braces can treat complex orthodontic problems involving the bite. However, they are not suitable for people who have a habit of grinding their teeth, as the ceramic brackets can cause wear of the opposing teeth. On the other hand, clear aligners should be your choice if you prefer comfort and convenience.  

What Colour Braces Should I Get If I Have Yellow Teeth?

The colour of your elastic bands can significantly impact the apparent colour of your teeth. Therefore, you should select an elastic band colour that makes your teeth look whiter. For example,  dentists recommend wearing shades of silver or clear bands for yellow teeth. Alternatively, you may wear dark-coloured elastic bands like dark blue or purple. White-coloured bands should be avoided as they get stained easily and make your teeth appear darker. Similarly, black ties shouldn’t be worn as they have high contrast with your teeth. 

What Is The Advantage Of Ceramic Braces?

Ceramic braces offer several advantages over other orthodontic treatment options; 

 

  • Inconspicuous – unlike traditional metal braces, ceramic braces are made from tooth-coloured ceramics. Therefore, they are virtually invisible, and they won’t affect your smile or appearance. 
  • More Comfortable than Metal Braces – ceramic braces offer superior comfort and convenience over conventional metal braces.
  • Better Option for Forgetful Patients – patients who often forget to wear their aligners for the prescribed duration can benefit from ceramic braces which remain fixed to their teeth. 

 

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or a family member, make sure you go to a qualified dental specialist. If you are looking for the best family dental practice in London, 128 Harley Street Dental is the best choice. Whether you need braces or clear aligners for your kids, or teeth whitening for yourself, we offer all dental services at affordable rates under one roof. So, book a new appointment today and let us experienced and skilled dentists do their magic! We look forwards to serving you.