Ceramic Braces at Elevated Ortho: A Discreet Path to a Straighter Smile

An Educational Guide to One of the Most Popular Aesthetic Braces Options

Table of Contents

Introduction

Meet the Doctor

What Are Ceramic Braces

How Ceramic Braces Work

Traditional vs Ceramic Braces

Invisalign vs Ceramic Braces

Who Is a Great Candidate for Ceramic Braces

Colors With Clear Braces

What to Expect at Elevated Ortho

The Benefits of Ceramic Braces

Pro Tips for Caring for Ceramic Braces

Top Picks: Why Patients Choose Ceramic Braces

Patient Spotlight

Why Choose Elevated Ortho

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

If you want straighter teeth but you are not excited about the look of traditional braces, you are not alone. Many teens and adults in Bakersfield tell us the same thing: "I want a great result, but I also want to feel confident while I am getting there." That is exactly why ceramic braces are among the most popular aesthetic braces we offer.

Ceramic braces (often called clear braces or invisible braces) give you the performance of braces with a more discreet appearance. They can be a great choice for patients who want a subtle braces experience without sacrificing results.

At Elevated Ortho in Bakersfield, CA, we are here to make your options easy to understand and your treatment experience as smooth as possible. Led by Dr. Don Montano, our practice has 35+ years of orthodontic experience, a 5-star rating with 1010+ reviews, and one clear goal: help you feel confident saying "yes" to treatment and even more confident when you see your final smile.

In this guide, we are breaking down ceramic braces in plain language: what they are, how they work, how they compare to traditional braces and Invisalign®, what color choices look like with clear braces, and how to keep them looking great throughout treatment.

Ceramic braces are not "weaker braces" or "cosmetic braces." They are a real orthodontic tool designed to deliver real bite correction and real results.

Meet the Doctor

Dr. Don Montano has dedicated his career to helping Bakersfield families achieve healthy, confident smiles. With 35+ years of orthodontic experience, he brings a calm, clear approach to treatment planning and a strong focus on long-term stability, not just short-term straight teeth.

At Elevated Ortho, we believe orthodontics should feel encouraging and personal. We take time to explain your options, answer your questions, and recommend the approach that best matches your goals, your lifestyle, and your bite needs. Whether you choose traditional braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign, our job is to guide you with clarity and help you feel confident at every step.

What Are Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces use tooth-colored or clear ceramic brackets instead of metal brackets. The wire and ties work similarly to traditional braces, but the brackets are designed to blend in with your natural tooth color.

You might hear ceramic braces described as:

• Ceramic braces
• Clear braces
• Clear brackets
• Invisible braces (they are more discreet, but not truly invisible)

The biggest difference is aesthetic. Ceramic braces are less noticeable in everyday life, photos, and video calls, which can be a huge confidence boost for teens and adults who want a more subtle look.

How Ceramic Braces Work

Ceramic braces work the same way braces have worked for decades: steady, controlled pressure that guides teeth into healthier positions over time.

Here is the simple breakdown:

• Brackets are bonded to your teeth
• A wire connects the brackets and applies gentle force
• The wire is adjusted over time to continue tooth movement
• Small accessories (like rubber bands) may be added to guide bite correction

Because braces are fixed to your teeth, they work 24/7. That is one of the biggest advantages for patients who want a reliable option that does not depend on remembering to wear aligners.

Traditional vs Ceramic Braces

If you are deciding between traditional metal braces and ceramic braces, you are asking a smart question. Both can create excellent results, and both are common in modern orthodontics. The best choice depends on your goals and what matters most to you.

Appearance

• Traditional metal braces: More noticeable.
• Ceramic braces: Brackets blend in, creating a more discreet look.

Strength and durability

• Metal braces: Extremely durable and resistant to chipping.
• Ceramic braces: Strong and effective, but ceramic brackets can be slightly more fragile than metal in certain situations.

That is why we guide patients on how to protect brackets and what foods to avoid.

Staining potential

Ceramic brackets themselves are designed to resist staining, but the small elastic ties can discolor between visits if you eat or drink a lot of dark or richly colored foods or beverages. The good news is we change those ties at appointments, and we can help you choose colors that stay looking fresh.

Treatment effectiveness

Both options are effective. In many cases, ceramic braces can accomplish the same movements as metal braces. For some complex bite corrections, we may recommend metal braces because they can be the most efficient tool for the job. Our goal is always the best result, not just the most discreet appliance.

Comfort

Both types of braces can cause soreness when you start and after adjustments. Many patients find ceramic braces feel smoother, but comfort depends most on good planning, good technique, and good home care.

If you want a subtle look but you also want the reliability of braces, ceramic braces can be the best of both worlds.

Invisalign® vs Ceramic Braces

Another common comparison is Invisalign vs ceramic braces. Both are popular options for patients who want a more discreet treatment experience.

Invisalign®

• Removable clear trays
• Very subtle appearance
• Fewer food restrictions
• Easier brushing and flossing
• Requires strong wear-time consistency (typically 20-22 hours per day)

Ceramic braces

• Fixed clear brackets
• Discreet but not invisible
• Always working, no wear-time responsibility
• More food rules than Invisalign
• Great for patients who want dependable progress without managing trays

A simple way to think about it:

• If you want removable trays and can commit to wear time, Invisalign can be excellent.
• If you want discreet braces that work all day and do not depend on remembering trays, ceramic braces can be a great fit.

We will always evaluate your bite, goals, and habits before recommending the best option.

Who Is a Great Candidate for Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces can be a great option for teens and adults who want:

• A discreet braces look
• Reliable progress without removable trays
• A treatment option that can handle a wide range of orthodontic concerns

Ceramic braces can treat many common issues, including:

• Crowding
• Spacing
• Rotated teeth
• Overbites and underbites (in many cases)
• Crossbites (depending on complexity)
• Midline shifts
• General bite alignment

Lifestyle also matters. Ceramic braces can be a great match if you:

• Want a subtle look for work, school, or social events
• Prefer a fixed appliance that works 24/7
• Do not want the responsibility of aligner wear time

We may recommend another option if:

• You play high-contact sports without the ability to protect brackets well
• Your case requires movements best handled with metal braces
• You want a removable option and can commit to wear time (Invisalign)

We will guide you to the best match for your smile and long-term stability.

Colors With Clear Braces

One of the biggest surprises for patients is this: you can still personalize ceramic braces.

Even though the brackets are clear or tooth-colored, the elastic ties that hold the wire can be changed at your visits, and that is where color comes in.

Subtle color choices

If you want the most discreet look, many patients choose:

• Clear ties
• Pearl or champagne tones
• Silver or light gray

These tend to blend in nicely and keep attention on your smile, not your braces.

Fun color choices

If you want personality, you can absolutely choose colors, even with clear braces. Some patients love:

• Navy
• Dark purple
• Teal
• Burgundy

Darker colors often photograph well and can make teeth look brighter by contrast.

Colors to be cautious with

Some colors can be tricky because they may stain or create an unwanted look:

• White or clear can discolor over time with coffee, tea, curry, or tomato sauce
• Yellow can make teeth look more yellow
• Light green can resemble food
• Brown can look like discoloration

Pro tip: If you love light colors but worry about staining, pick a light gray or silver. It stays looking clean longer while still blending in.

What to Expect at Elevated Ortho

We want treatment to feel simple from the start. Here is what you can expect when you choose ceramic braces at Elevated Ortho.

Step 1: Consultation and evaluation

We begin with a full orthodontic evaluation to understand:

• Tooth alignment
• Bite relationship
• Areas of crowding or spacing
• Long-term stability needs

Then we talk through your goals, your options, and our recommendations.

Step 2: Your personalized plan

Once we know what your smile needs, we outline:

• Estimated timeline
• Appliance choice (ceramic braces, metal braces, Invisalign)
• Any bite correction steps (like rubber bands)
• Visit schedule and what each stage looks like

Step 3: Getting your ceramic braces on

At your start appointment, we:

• Clean and prep your teeth
• Bond ceramic brackets
• Place the wire
• Review eating, brushing, and comfort tips

Step 4: Adjustments and progress visits

At your follow-up visits, we:

• Adjust wires to keep movement on track
• Replace ties (and update colors if you want)
• Monitor progress and bite changes
• Help you troubleshoot any discomfort

Step 5: Finishing and retention

When treatment is complete, we protect your results with retainers and a long-term plan. Retention is how we keep your new smile stable.

If you are comparing options, check out our pages on braces and Invisalign at elevatedortho.com for more details, then schedule a consultation so we can evaluate your smile in person.

The Benefits of Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are popular because they solve a real problem: many people want braces-level results without braces-level visibility.

Here are the main benefits we see.

A more discreet look

Ceramic brackets blend into teeth, making braces less noticeable in daily life.

Reliable progress

Ceramic braces work 24/7. You do not have to remember wear time the way you do with aligners.

Braces-level precision

Ceramic braces can deliver detailed tooth movement and bite correction, making them a strong option for many orthodontic needs.

Confidence during treatment

Many patients feel more comfortable smiling, speaking, and being in photos with a more subtle braces look.

A smile makeover that supports health

Straighter teeth can be easier to clean, which supports long-term gum health and enamel protection.

If you ignore crowding or bite issues, teeth can wear unevenly and become harder to clean. Orthodontics can be both cosmetic and functional.

Pro Tips for Caring for Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are easy to manage when you have a simple system. Here are our best tips.

Pro tip 1: Build a must-have hygiene routine

We recommend:

• Brush 2-3 times daily
• Focus on the gumline and around brackets
• Use an interdental brush for quick cleanups around wires
• Floss daily (a water flosser can be a game-changer)

Pro tip 2: Watch staining foods if you choose clear ties

Coffee, tea, red sauce, curry, and dark sodas can discolor ties. If that bothers you, choose silver or light gray.

Pro tip 3: Protect brackets with smart eating choices

Avoid:

• Ice
• Hard candy
• Sticky candy
• Popcorn kernels
• Biting into hard foods (slice apples, carrots)

Pro tip 4: Use wax early and often

If anything rubs, wax can protect cheeks and lips. Dry the bracket first so wax sticks better.

Pro tip 5: Create an on-the-go kit

A small kit helps you stay consistent when life gets busy:

• Travel toothbrush and toothpaste
• Floss picks or threaders
• Interdental brush
• Wax
• Water bottle

Pro tip 6: Keep appointments and communicate early

Small issues are easy to fix when caught early. If something feels off, let us know so we can help.

Top Picks: Why Patients Choose Ceramic Braces

Here are the top reasons patients choose ceramic braces at Elevated Ortho.

Top Pick 1: Subtle look with strong results

Many patients love the combination of discreet brackets and braces-level performance.

Top Pick 2: Great for adults

Ceramic braces are a common choice for adults who want a more professional, low-profile option.

Top Pick 3: Always working

No wear-time stress. Ceramic braces keep moving your smile forward every day.

Top Pick 4: Color flexibility

You can keep it subtle or add personality with tie colors, even with clear braces.

Top Pick 5: Confidence throughout the process

Patients often tell us ceramic braces helped them feel more comfortable smiling during treatment, not just after.

Social challenge: Try our 7-day "Clean and Confident" challenge. Brush after every meal, use an interdental brush once daily, and rinse with water after coffee or tea. Most patients notice fresher breath and cleaner brackets fast.

Patient Spotlight

We often meet patients who want a smile makeover but hesitate because they do not want the look of braces. They want straight teeth, but they also want to feel confident at work, in photos, and in everyday conversations.

Ceramic braces often become the moment they finally say yes.

A common story we hear is this: a patient starts treatment feeling cautious, then a few months in they say, "I did not realize braces could feel this normal." The discreet look helps, but so does the support, the routine, and the visible progress. As the smile changes, so does confidence.

That is why we love aesthetic braces options. They remove a major barrier and make treatment feel doable for people who have been putting it off for years.

Why Choose Elevated Ortho

At Elevated Ortho, we believe orthodontic care should feel clear, supportive, and personal. Our patients choose us because we offer:

• 35+ years of orthodontic experience led by Dr. Don Montano
• A 5-star rating with 1010+ reviews from Bakersfield families
• Treatment options that fit real life, including braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign
• Expert experience as we are in the top 5 Invisalign providers in California and largest Invisalign provider in the San Joaquin Valley (Central Valley)
• Clear communication so you always know what to expect
• A focus on long-term stability, not just short-term straight teeth
• A team that makes the process feel encouraging from start to finish

If you are considering ceramic braces in Bakersfield, we would love to help you explore whether they are the right fit for your smile goals.

Conclusion

Ceramic braces are one of the best options for patients who want a straighter smile with a more discreet treatment experience. They give you the reliability and precision of braces while blending in more naturally in daily life. For teens and adults who want subtle braces without sacrificing results, ceramic braces can be a smart, confidence-building choice.

If you are ready to explore your options, we would love to meet you. Our team will evaluate your bite, explain the differences between traditional and ceramic braces, compare ceramic braces to Invisalign, and help you choose the plan that fits your goals and lifestyle. Visit elevatedortho.com or call 661-665-7600 to schedule your consultation at Elevated Ortho in Bakersfield, CA. Ready to elevate your smile? We are here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ceramic braces the same as clear braces?

Yes. Ceramic braces are often called clear braces because the brackets are tooth-colored, making them less noticeable than metal braces.

Do ceramic braces work as well as traditional braces?

In many cases, yes. Ceramic braces can achieve excellent results. For some complex cases, metal braces may be more efficient, and we will recommend the best option for your bite and long-term outcome.

Do ceramic braces stain?

Ceramic brackets are designed to resist staining, but the elastic ties can discolor with certain foods and drinks. Choosing silver or light gray ties can help reduce noticeable staining.

Can I get colors with clear braces?

Yes. Even with clear braces, you can choose tie colors at your visits. You can keep it subtle or add personality depending on your preference.

Are ceramic braces more expensive than metal braces?

They can be, depending on your treatment plan. We will review your options and help you choose what makes the most sense for your goals and budget.

Are ceramic braces better than Invisalign?

Neither is best for everyone. Invisalign is removable and requires consistent wear time. Ceramic braces are fixed and always working. We will help you choose the option that fits your needs and lifestyle.