Ceramic (Clear) Braces
For those patients with clear ceramic brackets, or those potential new
patients considering them, here is a little information on a common concern –
staining.
Ceramic brackets are almost stain-proof, but can get dulled or even
darkened by things like espresso and red wine. To restore them from dingy to
clear, drink lemon water after you drink beverages that tend to stain. Also, use an electric toothbrush and let it
rest on each tooth (and bracket) for three to five seconds when brushing.
Tomato sauce, curry, cola drinks, teas, coffee, red wine, and some
fruit drinks or dark berries will discolor the ligatures around the brackets.
Remember the ligatures are changed at your regular appointments, so any
staining will disappear before it can become too noticeable.
Selecting a colored ligature will minimize staining. The tiny rubber
bands quickly pick up color, but some show stains less than others. Clear
ligatures give the most natural appearance that you wanted when selecting the
ceramic brackets, but stain most easily. Pearl or tooth-colored ligatures are
next on the easily stained list, but will not show as much color as clear ligatures.
Pastel colors show even less staining
and dark ligatures, for instance, grays or black will not show stains. The dark
rubber bands make the braces more obvious though, so that may defeat your
purpose in selecting the clear brackets.
So, the bottom line is to watch what you eat, and drink and brush as
soon as possible after eating or drinking something that may stain.
Dr. Miller & Staff
