Ceramic braces work like traditional braces, but with clear or tooth-colored brackets that are harder to notice. Dr. Nourian at Trusted Dental & Orthodontics offers ceramic braces for teens and adults in Los Angeles.
LESS VISIBLE BRACES
Ceramic braces use the same bracket-and-wire system as metal braces, so Dr. Nourian has the same kind of control over tooth movement. The difference is the bracket material: clear or tooth-colored ceramic that blends in with your natural teeth, so your braces are much less noticeable in conversation and in photos.
There are a few trade-offs to know about. Ceramic brackets are often slightly larger than metal ones, and the elastic ties that hold the wire can pick up stains from coffee, tea or tomato sauce between visits. Ceramic can also chip under heavy biting force, so careful eating habits matter.
CERAMIC VS. METAL VS. ALIGNERS
Each option can straighten teeth. The right one depends on your case, your daily habits and how visible you want your treatment to be.
Tooth-colored brackets blend in, especially on the upper front teeth, while still being a fixed appliance.
Unlike clear aligners, ceramic braces stay on, so progress doesn't depend on daily wear time.
The brackets hold their color well, but the ties can discolor. They're replaced at each adjustment.
Ceramic brackets are often a bit bulkier than metal, so your lips and cheeks may need a short adjustment period.
Like metal braces, ceramic braces are adjusted at regular visits to keep your teeth moving.
A common choice for older teens and adults who want fixed braces without a metallic look.
Dr. Nourian, an AAO board-eligible orthodontist, plans and adjusts your treatment.
Financing through CareCredit, Sunbit and Cherry, plus in-house plans for qualifying treatment.
Ceramic can chip under heavy force, so skip ice and hard candy and avoid biting directly into hard foods.
Braces adjustments and dental cleanings can often be scheduled in the same visit.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Common questions from Los Angeles patients considering tooth-colored braces.
The ceramic brackets themselves resist staining, but the elastic ties around them can discolor. Rinse or brush after coffee, tea, red sauces and other strongly colored foods, and avoid tobacco. The ties are replaced at each adjustment visit, which refreshes their color.
Ceramic braces typically cost somewhat more than metal braces because of the bracket material. Your exact fee depends on your case and your insurance benefits. Dr. Nourian reviews the cost of each option at your free consultation, and financing is available.
In many cases, yes. Ceramic braces use the same bracket-and-wire approach as metal braces, so they can treat crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites and crossbites. For some cases, Dr. Nourian may recommend metal braces instead, and he will explain why at your consultation.
It depends on your case and habits. Both are less visible than metal braces, but ceramic braces are fixed and keep working without you remembering to wear them, while aligners are removable and need to be worn most of the day. Dr. Nourian can help you weigh your bite, lifestyle and preferences.
Book a free orthodontic consultation with Dr. Nourian at Trusted Dental & Orthodontics. Compare ceramic braces, metal braces and aligners for your case, with no obligation.