Ceramic Braces

Traditionally, orthodontic braces have been made from metal, without any other options for additional types of material to be used in correcting the alignment of teeth.  As orthodontia has made leaps and bounds forward, however, other materials have come into common use in place of metal.  Some other types of braces now being used include plastic braces, Invisalign retainer-like braces, and ceramic braces.  Many orthodontia patients still are not aware of non-metal options.  If you are interested in non-metal braces, you should ask your orthodontist about their use.

Ceramic braces are designed to blend in with your teeth.  Although they can be seen from short distances in the way they stand away from your teeth, they are a less obvious than metal braces and so are much preferred by adults who feel self-conscious over the need to have dental alignment performed.  Not all orthodontists are willing to use non-metal braces, however.  If your current orthodontist does not offer ceramic braces as an option, you can ask for a referral to a provider who can and will.

You will also need to check with your dental insurance provided to determine whether ceramic braces are covered under your plan.  Although the procedure to place and tighten ceramic braces is the same as metal braces, the cost of ceramic braces is quite different due to the difference in materials.  If your dental insurance will not cover the cost of ceramic braces, you will need to bear the cost out of pocket.  Even if you dental insurance will cover the cost of ceramic braces, it is likely that you will still have larger out of pocket cost in the form of co-pays and co-insurance.

Choosing the type of braces you wear is a very serious consideration that should not be undertaken lightly.  By carefully considering your own needs and desires, you can start to determine which option you would best like to use.  In addition, you will also need to rely upon the advice of your trusted orthodontist, because all types of braces do not work in all tooth realignment circumstances.  If you are interested in ceramic braces, you should make that known to your orthodontist up front so that they can work to determine if that option would best work considering your own unique dental circumstances.