Porcelain Ceramic Braces from Your Santa Barbara Orthodontist

When choosing which teeth straightening option is best for you, many factors come into play, one being aesthetics.

For years, metal braces were the only option. These days, though, you have more options, including porcelain or ceramic braces, also known as "clear braces."

Are Clear Braces Worth It? Are They Better Than Metal Braces?

Porcelain or ceramic braces are clear or white, making them nearly invisible against your teeth. The main benefit of porcelain or ceramic orthodontic appliances, then, is aesthetics. And since many adults are investing in orthodontic treatment these days, having less noticeable braces is definitely a plus.

However, the benefits don't stop there.

Beyond Aesthetics - Why Consider Clear Braces

Porcelain ceramic braces are considered an important part of orthodontic treatment by your Santa Barbara orthodontist because of their effectiveness. Like traditional metal braces, clear braces provide a safe, effective way to restore proper alignment of your teeth.

Another benefit is that more patients report that porcelain or ceramic brackets are more comfortable than metal ones. Typically, metal brackets have sharper edges, which can result in lip and tongue discomfort.

While you can apply wax to the metal brackets to reduce irritation, it's just one more step to take in your already busy day. Porcelain and ceramic braces, on the other hand, are already smooth and won't irritate the soft tissues of your mouth.

Still another perk of this type of ortho appliance is how durable they are. It's easy to think that metal braces provide the ultimate strength but it's nearly just as difficult to damage ceramic brackets. In the majority of cases, the original brackets will last the duration of your treatment.

Another reason to choose the clear bracket option is that they're less likely to interfere with imaging tests. Occasionally, your dentist will need to take x-rays to check the health of your teeth and the surrounding bone. Metal braces can obscure the image, while porcelain barely shows up in the images.

Finally, clear braces are still cost-effective. While they are slightly more expensive than metal braces (because of the high-quality materials used to fabricate them), they generally cost less than other aesthetic options, like clear aligners.

Am I a Candidate for Porcelain Braces?

There are three reasons why your Santa Barbara, CA Orthodontist would recommend braces - and one important reason in particular why he would recommend porcelain or ceramic braces to straighten your teeth including:

Aesthetics:

If crooked teeth and a misaligned bite are impacting your confidence and self-esteem, your Orthodontist will recommend orthodontic intervention. The treatment period will go by faster than you think, and you'll be so happy you invested in the process.

Function:

When your bite is off, your teeth, jawbones, muscles, joints, and ligaments of your head, face, and neck don't function properly. The result is strained muscles, jaw joint damage, and headaches or migraines.

Health:

It's less likely that you are going to experience broken or chipped teeth when your teeth and bite are in proper alignment. Likewise, when your teeth are straight, they're easier to thoroughly clean, meaning you're less likely to develop dental decay or gum disease. And since there are links between oral and general health, the healthier your teeth and gums, the healthier you'll be overall.

One reason your Santa Barbara orthodontist may encourage you to choose ceramic or porcelain braces specifically is if worrying about aesthetics is holding you back from getting treatment.

You need braces but the idea of wearing metal brackets for years doesn't appeal to you. Maybe you don't think it would be conducive to your job and a professional appearance. Perhaps you have a wedding coming up and don't want to look back on pictures from that day and focus on your mouth.

Whatever the case may be, if the look of braces is what's holding you back, your dentist will recommend a more aesthetically pleasing option.

What Type of Braces Are Right For Me?

When you visit See Me Smile Dental, our orthodontist, Dr. Hamid Barkhordar, will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and jawbones to determine which type of orthodontic appliances are best for you.

Part of his treatment planning process is discussing with you the pros and cons of the type of braces you're interested in, as well as discussing your unique needs.

There's not a one-size-fits-all approach to orthodontics. What works for one person - including members of your own family - won't necessarily work for another. Additionally, certain alignment issues require metal braces and additional orthodontic appliances.

Dr. Barkhordar takes all factors into consideration when creating your custom orthodontic treatment plan. You can be sure that he'll provide you with exactly what you need to get the results you desire. After your orthodontics treatment plan is complete, you'll have a straighter smile and healthier teeth and gums.