Want to achieve your dream of straighter teeth?

Well braces are the perfect option for you, as they are efficient, effective and the fastest option.

However, you may have shrugged them off due to the aesthetic appearance. Maybe you associate braces with easily visible brackets, wires and rubber bands.

This is not always the case! Ceramic braces may be the perfect alternative option for you.

What makes ceramic braces different?

Ceramic braces are traditional braces with a discreet appearance. The brackets are made from a fine tooth-coloured porcelain material instead of the traditional stainless steel.

When these brackets are paired with white archwires and clear rubber bands, the braces are virtually invisible.

These braces are slower than metal braces, but faster at correcting issues than any other discreet option available.

So why not choose the discreet option for treating complex malocclusions and bite issues.

How do they work?

Ceramic braces can help you achieve your dream smile!

Just like metal braces, they are excellent at fixing complex dental issues and closing gaps between teeth. Issues such as malocclusions, crossbites, openbites, overbites, underbites, crooked teeth, gaps and other tooth and jaw issues.

Braces work to treat all these dental issues by applying continuous pressure to slowly move the teeth in the correct directions over the course of the treatment. As your teeth move, your bone changes shape. Archwires act as the guide for the moving teeth and are held in place by the brackets, which are bonded to each individual tooth. Elastic bands are attached to apply pressure to bring the upper and lower teeth together, to achieve an improved fit and better bite.

The team at Straight Orthodontics tailors ceramic braces to each individual patient as we know that every patient’s mouth is different, and everyone has different expectations too. This is why we fit the treatment to you by examining your mouth.

These discreet braces can give you the straighter smile you are looking for and make you love smiling!

Ceramic braces are for everyone

Whether you’re an adult or teenager, you can choose clear ceramic braces, instead of the easily visible stainless-steel counterpart. However, these braces are more expensive than metal braces, but less expensive than other discreet options.

Ceramic braces are especially popular among self-conscious adults who are looking for subtle solution to fixing their dental issues. A great option for people usually working in public front roles, attending university or generally people who do not want to draw attention to their braces.

The use of porcelain brackets may also be perfect if you suffer from a metal allergy.

The pros and cons

Pros

  • Less visible than traditional braces
  • Don’t interfere with imaging tests
  • Move teeth faster than aligners

Cons

  • More expensive than metal braces
  • Porcelain is less durable than metal
  • Causes gum sensitivity
  • Move teeth a little slower than metal
  • Elastic bands attaching wires to the brackets can stain

Since ceramic braces are less durable than metal braces, it means brackets will need to be replaced more often to stop them from breaking under pressure.

Elastic band staining can be minimised through regular brushing and flossing, avoiding foods and drinks which cause staining, avoiding whitening toothpastes and visiting our team at Straight Orthodontics regularly.

If you are looking for low-key brace’s treatment, ceramic braces are for you. To find out more information or to book in a consultation, please contact us today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ceramic brackets themselves are generally stain-resistant, but the elastic ties used to hold the wire can discolour over time from foods or drinks like coffee, curry, or red wine. At Straight Orthodontics, we replace these ties regularly during your visits to help maintain a clean appearance. Good oral hygiene and avoiding highly pigmented foods and beverages can also reduce staining. Choosing a clear or white ceramic brace is a popular option, especially for those looking for a less noticeable treatment.

Ceramic braces & Clear Aligners are both less noticeable than traditional metal braces.

However, Ceramic braces will still require stainless steel or titanium wires and may be better suited for complex cases. Clear Aligners are simpler to maintain and cleaning your teeth with Clear Aligners is easier, but they may not be suitable for severe orthodontic problems. The choice between the two depends on individual needs and preferences, and a consultation with an orthodontist can help make an informed decision.

The duration of your ceramic braces treatment can vary based on factors such as the complexity of your orthodontic issues, your age, your oral health, and how well you follow your orthodontist’s recommendations. Generally, treatment with ceramic braces might take a similar amount of time as traditional metal braces, ranging from about 18 months to 3 years. Your orthodontist will be able to provide a more accurate estimate after evaluating your specific case during an initial consultation. Regular check-ups and adjustments are important to ensure your treatment progresses as planned, leading to the desired outcome of well-aligned teeth and an improved smile.

Ceramic braces, known for their discreet appearance due to tooth-coloured or clear brackets, can effectively address a range of orthodontic issues, including crooked teeth, crowded teeth, spacing problems, overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, and midline misalignment. By using gentle pressure and precise adjustments, ceramic braces gradually guide teeth into proper alignment, improving both aesthetics and functional bite alignment, although they may require additional care to prevent staining or breakage. Your orthodontist will determine their suitability based on your specific dental needs and preferences.

The ceramic brackets are made to resist staining, so they typically stay clear. The elastic ties may discolour from certain foods or drinks, but these are replaced at routine appointments, helping your braces stay fresh in appearance throughout treatment.

Costs vary depending on your treatment needs, the length of treatment, and the complexity of tooth movement. After an examination and discussion of your goals, your orthodontist can provide a personalized cost estimate that reflects your individual plan.

Ceramic braces are made from a tooth-coloured or clear porcelain material designed to blend in with your natural teeth. This makes them a more discreet alternative to traditional metal braces, especially when paired with clear bands and white wires.

If you experience a broken or loose bracket, the first step is to contact your orthodontist’s office for guidance. If the bracket is fully detached but intact, you can gently remove it from your mouth to prevent discomfort. Use orthodontic wax if needed to alleviate irritation. Avoid consuming foods that could worsen the situation. Keep the bracket if it has come off completely, and follow your orthodontist’s instructions for the next steps, which may involve scheduling a repair appointment. Your orthodontist will provide expert advice on how to proceed, ensuring your treatment remains on track.

Cleaning involves brushing after meals, using interdental brushes around brackets, and rinsing when brushing isn’t possible. Reducing staining foods can also help. Your orthodontist may recommend specific cleaning tools to support good oral hygiene throughout treatment.

Brushing with ceramic braces is similar to brushing with traditional metal braces. However, you must take extra care to avoid damaging the ceramic brackets, which are more brittle than metal brackets. Here are some tips for brushing with ceramic braces:

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth and braces.
  • Brush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line, using a circular motion.
  • Brush the brackets and wires carefully and be cautious not to apply too much pressure.
  • Use an interdental brush, floss threader or waterpik waterflosser to clean between the wires and teeth.
  • Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or an antibacterial mouthwash to remove any debris.

It’s essential to brush your teeth and braces thoroughly after every meal and snack to prevent food particles from getting trapped in the brackets and wires, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments and your dentist for professional cleaning to maintain good oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic treatment.

Yes, ceramic braces are just as effective as metal braces for most orthodontic treatments. They use the same system of brackets and wires to gently guide your teeth into better alignment. At Straight Orthodontics, we assess your individual needs to determine which type suits your treatment goals. Ceramic braces are often chosen for their discreet appearance, especially by teens and adults. However, in cases requiring complex tooth movement, metal braces may be recommended due to their durability.

Ceramic braces work in a similar way to metal ones, so the level of discomfort is about the same, especially after adjustments. At Straight Orthodontics, we find that some patients feel slight irritation in the beginning due to the brackets being slightly larger, but this usually settles quickly. Any soreness is temporary and can be managed with simple measures like orthodontic wax or over-the-counter pain relief. Our team is here to guide you through the adjustment process with care and support.

The length of time it takes to straighten teeth using ceramic braces depends on the severity of the orthodontic issues and the individual’s unique dental situation. Typically, treatment with ceramic braces takes about 18-36 months, which is similar to traditional metal braces. However, the exact duration of the treatment may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the patient’s compliance with the orthodontic treatment plan. Your orthodontist can give you a better estimate of the time required for your specific case after an initial examination and consultation.