As you know, traditional metal braces are used to straighten teeth over time. Unfortunately, this means that your child will be wearing braces for an extended period. Also, while they are wearing braces, there is still uneven pressure on the teeth, leading to other dental problems. 

If you consider ceramic braces by a dentist in North Curl Curl for your child, you must have asked yourself the question on what makes them different from traditional metal braces? The name alone might make you think that ceramic braces are similar to their metal counterparts. However, this blog will tell you that ceramic is not just "another type of metal." Ceramic refers to Lithium Disilicate material, and it is reserved only for unique orthodontic cases. 

When considering ceramic braces, the first thing you will notice is that they are not metal at all. However, since most dentists does offer both metal and ceramic braces for teeth straightening, it can be easy to confuse what makes ceramic different from traditional metal braces. 

Ceramic braces are often reserved only for unique orthodontic cases because of their enhanced design capabilities. Metal brackets used for traditional braces are fixed in size and shape, which means they must be swapped out periodically as your child's mouth changes due to growth. On the other hand, ceramic brackets vary in colour and shape, allowing to create an aesthetic appeal consistently.  

Ceramic braces are always custom-made for each patient's mouth. This allows access to more tooth surface area than traditional braces, covering less space with each bracket, so the treatment time is shorter than metal braces. 

Which is better? 

Ceramic braces are unique in that they can be an option for both children and adults. As mentioned above, ceramic is often used only in the most complex orthodontic cases compared to traditional metal braces. In addition, the customized colour and shape of ceramic brackets make them a better fit for patients who would not normally consider orthodontic treatment because of aesthetics. 

Cost Involved 

As with any cosmetic treatment, the cost is an essential factor. The price tag for ceramic braces will be more than traditional metal braces. However, if you are considering ceramic, it's likely because no other straightening option would work for your child. This means the overall expense is worth the short treatment time and customized options that only ceramic offers. 

If your child will require orthodontic treatment in the future (and nearly everyone does), it makes sense to find out what options are available now. If you cannot afford ceramic braces or if they do not fit into your family's budget, speak to your dentist to learn how we can still create a beautiful smile for your child using traditional metal brackets! Traditional brackets too can give you great results. However, the procedure may be a bit uncomfortable and long lasting. Before you finalise a treatment for yourself or your child, ensure to weigh the pros and cons of both.