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Ceramic Braces: It's Never Too Late To Get Braces as an Adult

Not so long ago, children usually had dental braces only if their family could afford them. Now adults are wearing dental braces in greater and greater numbers. And there's never been a better time to make this choice.

Dental braces are smaller, lighter, easier to clean and wear comfortably. A whole new world of orthodontic materials that work better and faster is available to us as adult braces . There are ceramic braces, invisible braces and many other choices for adults who want to improve their smile.

Ceramic braces offer a less-visible alternative to the more established metal braces. They blend in more with the natural color of teeth and may make the braces look more appealing. Ceramic braces may not be as strong metal and may require a longer treatment time.

Metal bands are only a memory. We use new plastics and bonding adhesives. Wire and brackets can be "super-glued" directly onto the teeth. There are some dental braces that seem "invisible."

Nitinol (thanks NASA!) is a new metal that retains its shape and is strong enough to withstand the force exerted by orthodontic appliances.

Moderate gaps can even be invisible with lingual braces glued to the back of the teeth.

If you think you need dental braces, or maybe you're interested in the visual appeal of ceramic braces, check out all your options, because there has never been a better time!

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

Clear Braces: The Beauty of Choice in Orthodontics

If you want to avoid looking unattractive while you straighten your teeth, you may find clear braces an attractive option.

You can get the orthodontic work you need without having to compromise aesthetics along the way.

When people say "clear braces," they usually mean what orthodontists and braces dentists call ceramic braces.

Instead of the big ugly metal brackets used in traditional braces, these braces have tooth-colored ceramic brackets that are far less noticeable.

Clear elastics and white-colored metal means everything is less visible to others.

But sometimes when people talk about "clear braces," they mean Invisalign braces or another system of clear plastic aligners.

Though they straighten teeth, they are no braces per se. The trays fit over the teeth like an ultra-thin mouth guard, slowly moving teeth into place.

They're not just invisible; they're also removable. But, as with so many other things, beauty can have its price.

Ceramic braces cost slightly more than their metal counterparts. Moreover, the ceramic brackets are somewhat more prone to breakage. And plastic aligners simply can't move teeth as dramatically as can actual braces.

Make sure you've learned the pros and cons before making a final decision.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.