Metal braces are highly effective, but they're also highly visible. If you want a straighter smile without drawing unwanted attention, ceramic braces offer the best of both worlds. At Cordes Orthodontics, Dr. Cordes provides 3M™ Clarity™ Clear Ceramic Brackets for patients in Enfield and the surrounding communities. These tooth-colored brackets blend naturally with your smile so you can live your life at school, work, or social events without feeling self-conscious about your smile. If ceramic braces sound like the right fit, contact us to schedule a consultation.
3M™ Clarity™ Clear Ceramic Brackets are an alternative bracket designed to work with ceramic braces to correct misaligned teeth. The difference between these and other, more traditional hardware is that they have a much more discreet appearance.
Instead of stainless steel, these brackets are made from a smooth, clear ceramic material that closely mimics the color and light reflection of natural tooth enamel. When paired with tooth-colored wires, the overall appliance seemingly blends into your smile, becoming barely noticeable, even up close. They're a popular choice among older teens and sociable adults who want effective orthodontic correction without becoming the center of attention.
In design, 3M™ Clarity™ Clear Ceramic Brackets work the same way as they would with traditional metal braces. Each bracket is bonded to the front surface of a tooth, and a thin wire is threaded through them.
Over time, the wire is adjusted at regular appointments to gradually apply gentle pressure, guiding your teeth into their ideal positions. The only true difference is how they look while doing their job.
Ceramic and metal braces are more alike than they are different, but there are a few key distinctions worth knowing:
During your consultation, Dr. Cordes will help you weigh these factors and determine which option best fits your lifestyle, goals, and budget.
Most patients who are candidates for traditional braces are also candidates for ceramic ones. They work especially well for teens and adults who need correction for mild to moderate alignment issues and want a more refined look during treatment.
However, there are some complex cases, such as those involving significant bite correction, where metal braces may be a stronger recommendation. The only way to know for sure is to come in for a consultation. Dr. Cordes will evaluate your smile, explain your options, and help you choose the treatment that makes the most sense for you.