For those embarking on their orthodontic treatment who feel worried about the visibility of braces, there are now several discreet options to choose from. Clear ceramic braces may be one of those options, as they offer a high standard of treatment whilst also being nearly invisible. Although many concerns can arise when it comes to orthodontic treatment, one that is a common concern with ceramic braces is if they stain or discolour.
Let’s delve a little deeper into this powerhouse of a brace system, what some of the pitfalls could be and how you can avoid them.
What Are Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic braces are designed to blend in with the natural colour of your teeth, offering a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces. These braces are made from polycrystalline alumina and consist of clear or tooth-coloured brackets and wires connected by a flexible metal archwire, which can be made in a lighter colour to match the brackets.
Much like traditional metal braces, the archwire is connected to the brackets using small elastic bands which apply gentle and constant pressure to your teeth, guiding them into the desired position.
Why Are Ceramic Braces So Popular?
Ceramic braces can be used to resolve most alignment and bite-related issues, making them a robust and highly effective form of orthodontic treatment suitable for many patients. With ceramic braces, there is also an option have use attachments to further assist dental issues such as elastic bands to guide the jaw. Ceramic braces are also much more comfortable compared to traditional metal braces. The non-abrasive, high-quality ceramic brackets are less likely to irritate gums or the inside of your cheeks.
Do Ceramic Braces Stain and Become Discoloured?
The ceramic brackets themselves are made from stain-resistant materials, so this part of your brace is highly unlikely to suffer from discolouration. The elastic bands that hold the archwire to the brackets, however, are not stain-resistant and this is where your pristine and aesthetically pleasing brace can have a downside.
The elastic bands can become discoloured by:
- Your Dietary Habits – eating and drinking highly pigmented, dark-coloured foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauce and dark fruits such as blackberries, can cause your teeth and elastics to stain. It is advisable to stay away from these types of food if you want to avoid discolouration or eat them very much in moderation.
- Smoking – tobacco is a well-known culprit for staining teeth and affecting the colour of ceramic braces. Smoking can cause yellowing or discolouration of the elastic bands and your teeth around the bracket, diminishing the discreet nature of ceramic braces.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for preventing discolouration. Poor oral care can lead to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria around the braces and elastics, causing stains and compromising the appearance of your ceramic braces.
Is It Possible to Prevent Ceramic Braces Staining?
Avoiding staining foods and drinks is the most effective way to prevent discolouration of your teeth and elastics on your brackets. Steer clear or consume these foods in moderation and consider using a straw for dark liquids to minimise contact with your braces. Maintaining good oral hygiene by keeping your teeth as clean and healthy as possible is another way of preventing staining. Brush and floss your teeth and braces twice a day and after eating using interdental brushes and floss threaders. If you’re not able to brush your teeth directly after a meal, then rinsing your mouth with water to get rid of food particles will suffice until you can brush and floss.
If you are a smoker, we recommend quitting smoking before starting your orthodontic treatment. Smoking is highly dangerous for your physical and dental health and is the highest cause of staining in teeth, therefore if you smoke with ceramic braces fitted, it is highly likely your elastics won’t remain clear, or tooth coloured for long.
Schedule regular appointments with your orthodontist to ensure that your braces are well-maintained, and any potential issues are addressed promptly. Professional cleanings can also help prevent discolouration and maintain the overall health of your teeth and braces.
What to do if You Experience Discolouration
If you find that your elastics have become discoloured and it is impacting the discreet nature of your ceramic brace, then contact your orthodontist. They will be able to thoroughly clean your teeth, advise on any further ways you can reduce the chances of staining and replace any discoloured elastics for you.
How Your Specialist Orthodontist in Chorley can help
Here at your expert orthodontist in Chorley, we are highly experienced and knowledgeable in the fitting and maintenance of ceramic braces. We can assess your current dental issues and advise on the best course of action to get your perfect smile. If ceramic braces are the right fit for you, then our team of specialist orthodontists in Chorley can assist and guide you in the proper care and maintenance of your discreet brace system.
If you would like to speak to us about how ceramic braces could work for you, then contact Chorley Orthodontics today, your expert orthodontist in Chorley, to book your free consultation.
