Ceramic braces offer the effectiveness of traditional braces with a more discreet appearance. At ABM Orthodontics, we provide clear ceramic brackets that blend naturally with your teeth, giving you confidence throughout your treatment in Clearwater.
Ceramic braces work exactly like metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets instead of stainless steel. They’re bonded to the front of your teeth and connected by wires that gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment. The ceramic material blends with your natural tooth color, making them far less noticeable than traditional metal braces. This makes ceramic braces popular among teens and adults who want effective treatment without the obvious appearance of metal hardware.
Ceramic braces are ideal for patients who need comprehensive orthodontic correction but prefer a more subtle look. They work well for adults in professional settings where appearance matters, teens who feel self-conscious about metal braces, and anyone with moderate to severe alignment issues requiring the precision of traditional braces. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment but worried about how visible metal braces would be, ceramic braces provide an excellent middle ground between metal braces and clear aligners.
Ceramic braces offer advantages over both metal braces and clear aligners. Compared to metal braces, they’re significantly less visible while providing the same level of control and effectiveness for complex cases. Unlike clear aligners, ceramic braces can’t be removed, which means they work 24/7 without relying on patient compliance. They also handle severe crowding, rotations, and bite issues more predictably than removable aligners. The trade-off is that ceramic brackets are slightly larger than metal brackets and require careful maintenance to prevent chipping.
Your ceramic braces journey begins with a comprehensive exam using our advanced 3D imaging technology. We evaluate your bite, jaw alignment, and overall oral health to create a personalized treatment plan. During your bonding appointment, we carefully attach ceramic brackets to each tooth and connect them with wires. You’ll return every four to twelve weeks for adjustments, where we tighten wires and monitor progress.
Most patients wear ceramic braces for 12 to 24 months, though your specific timeline depends on the complexity of your case. Throughout treatment, we track your progress digitally and make adjustments as needed to ensure optimal results.
Ceramic braces require diligent oral hygiene to maintain their clear appearance and protect your teeth. The brackets themselves are stain-resistant, but the elastic ties that hold the wire can discolor if exposed to certain foods and drinks. Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauce, and curry, which can stain the elastics. We replace these ties at each adjustment appointment, so any discoloration is temporary. Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste, paying special attention to the area around each bracket. Floss daily using a floss threader or water flosser to clean between teeth and under wires.
Ceramic braces typically cost slightly more than traditional metal braces due to the materials used and the care required during placement. However, they remain more affordable than some other aesthetic options. The final cost depends on your treatment complexity and duration. We work with most major insurance carriers including Cigna, Humana, MetLife, Guardian, and Florida Blue, and our team will verify your orthodontic benefits before treatment begins.
We also offer flexible payment options to make treatment accessible. Our financing includes 0% interest for 24 months through Cherry, plus Care Credit and Altheon options. We can create a payment plan based on your budget and treatment timeline.
ABM Orthodontics is a family-owned practice where personalized care takes priority over quotas and corporate mandates. We combine advanced 3D imaging technology with a comprehensive approach addressing not just alignment but also airway health and long-term function. Our Clearwater location offers flexible scheduling including select Saturdays, virtual consultation options, and Spanish-speaking services to accommodate our diverse community.
We use the latest equipment and digital tools to ensure precise diagnosis and gentle, efficient treatment.
Our skilled professionals are dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your needs.
From the moment you walk in, your comfort, time, and trust are our top priorities.
Schedule your appointment today and experience personalized dental care that puts your comfort first. Healthy teeth. Confident you.
Ceramic brackets are strong and durable, but they’re slightly more brittle than metal. This means you need to be careful with hard foods like ice, nuts, and hard candy. The brackets rarely break with proper care, and modern ceramic materials are much stronger than older versions. If a bracket does break, we can replace it quickly during a repair appointment.
No, ceramic braces work at the same speed as metal braces. Treatment time depends on your specific case complexity, not the bracket material. Both types use the same mechanics to move teeth, so you can expect similar timelines. Your commitment to wearing rubber bands as prescribed and attending regular adjustments has more impact on treatment length than bracket type.
The ceramic brackets themselves don’t stain your teeth. However, poor oral hygiene during treatment can lead to white spots or cavities around brackets, regardless of bracket type. This risk applies to all braces, not just ceramic ones. Following proper brushing and flossing techniques and avoiding sugary foods protects your teeth throughout treatment. We provide detailed care instructions and check your oral health at every appointment.
Yes, if ceramic braces aren’t working for your lifestyle or you’re concerned about durability, we can replace ceramic brackets with metal ones. Some patients choose to use ceramic brackets only on upper front teeth where they’re most visible and metal brackets on lower teeth or back teeth. We’re flexible and will work with you to find the best solution for your needs and preferences.
Our convenient Clearwater location at 1180 Ponce de Leon Blvd makes quality orthodontic care accessible to families throughout Pinellas County. We’re proud to serve patients from Clearwater, Largo, Belleair, Safety Harbor, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, Seminole and the surrounding communities. Our modern office features the latest orthodontic technology in a welcoming, comfortable environment designed with your family in mind. Whether you’re coming from nearby or across the bay, you’ll find ample parking and easy access to our practice. We offer flexible appointment times, including select Saturdays, to fit your busy schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today and discover the ABM Orthodontics difference.
Text or Call
727-605-2266
info@abmortho.com
Mon – Fri
Select Sat
8am – 6pm
8am – 2pm
