**1.5 Braces**

The science of braces – called Orthodontics, describes the corrective procedure as unaesthetic metamorphosis to an esthetic result. The aim of ceramic braces is to reverse the above description. The primary use of these brackets is esthetics. Ceramic braces as such do not experience masticatory forces, But are subjected to the orthodontic forces like sliding over wires, torquing etc. Due to its high wear coefficient, when wrongly placed can cause attrition of opposing teeth. They are basically polycrystalline alumina or Zirconia.

Fig. 21. Ceramic braces, colour codes showing the correct tooth to be cemented to.
