This treatment is for you if…
You want to align your teeth with an aesthetic economic solution.
What are ceramic brackets?
Ceramic brackets belong to the group of so-called aesthetic orthodontic techniques.. These brackets are made from materials that are very similar to porcelain (this is where their name comes from).
In recent years, these brackets have become the favourite among those patients seeking a more aesthetic alternative with respect to traditional metallic brackets.
The ivory tone of the ceramic enables the brackets to go unnoticed at first sight, since it resembles the natural colour of the teeth. Although they are not made of metal, ceramic brackets are highly effective just like conventional orthodontics and they are used for the same purpose: to correct malocclusion and to correctly align teeth.
Advantages of ceramic brackets
Ceramic or porcelain brackets are highly effective and, furthermore, present quite a few advantages with respect to other types of braces. Some of these advantages are as follows:
- They are more aesthetic. The materials with which the ceramic brackets are made have a very similar colour to the natural ivory tone of teeth. Furthermore, this type of brackets lets part of the light pass through them, which reflects the natural enamel of each tooth. Also, since they are not metallic, these brackets do not give off any bothersome glints or reflections typical of conventional orthodontics.
The aesthetic part is the greatest advantage of ceramic brackets, since it is a more discreet technique, while maintaining a more natural smile.
- More comfortable and safe. Ceramic braces do not have sharp edges or points. That means that the patient avoids the typical discomfort of metallic brackets that is generated with friction, such as mouth ulcers, gum problems or tongue injuries.
The porous surface area of the ceramic brackets enables them to attach well to each tooth, without damaging the dental enamel.
Also, due to the qualities of the material with which they are made, ceramic brackets are more easy to extract and remove, once the patient’s treatment has ended.
- Their composition. Another of the advantages of ceramic brackets is their composition. Since they do not contain metallic items, they are the best option for people that have some type of allergy or rejection of metals such as nickel.
Other characteristics of ceramic brackets to be taken into account
Despite the fact that ceramic brackets have many advantages, just like all orthodontic treatments, there are certain characteristics that the patient must know before choosing this option.
- Higher price. Since they are aesthetic, porcelain brackets usually cost more than traditional brackets. This is also due to the quality of the materials.
- Fragility. Resistance to the traction of porcelain brackets is greater than that of metallic brackets. This disadvantage increases the probabilities of breakage of the brackets during the treatment, and requires more exhaustive care than any other type of brackets.
- Duration of the treatment. Despite the advantage of going unnoticed, the treatment involving ceramic brackets usually lasts longer. In this type of brackets, lighter force is used so the movements of the teeth and the correction of their position will be slower.
Despite these slight disadvantages, there are many patients that prefer ceramic brackets since, aside from desiring good results from the treatment, they grant a lot of importance to the aesthetic side. Furthermore, it must be highlighted that, of all aesthetic braces, including lingual and invisible orthodontics, ceramic brackets are one of the cheapest types.
Orthodontic treatment phases using ceramic brackets
Orthodontic treatment using ceramic brackets has virtually the same phases as others. The five stages are as follows:
1. Orthodontic study. During the first appointments, the orthodontists perform a study using x-rays and photographs with the latest technology in the sector. Afterwards, the treatment will be designed and personalised, following the corresponding guidelines.
2. Fitting of brackets. The next step is the placement and cementing of the ceramic brackets onto the patient’s teeth. Once the brackets have been fitted, the patient is instructed on the necessary care and maintenance so that no problems arise.
3. Frequent check-ups. With these appointments, the orthodontist will assess the progress and improvements of the treatment, adjusting the ceramic brackets to achieve greater efficiency. Furthermore, any parts damaged by traction or by an accident will be replaced.
4. Removal of ceramic brackets. Treatment using ceramic brackets may last between six months and two years, depending on the needs of each patient. Once the objectives have been attained, the ceramic brackets and the arches will be removed and the teeth will be fully cleaned and polished.
5. Fitting of retainers. On removing the ceramic brackets, retainers will be fitted, since the ligament of the teeth that joins them to the bone has to assimilate the change of the new dental distribution, thereby ensuring the permanence of the new perfect alignment of teeth. Retainers exist of various types and these usually accompany the patient during an indefinite period to guarantee the stability of the treatment. The most common retainers are fixed retainers and night-time mouth guards.
FAQs
Ceramic brackets are a type of cosmetic orthodontics made of porcelain-like materials. Their ivory colour resembles that of teeth, which makes them much less visible than metal brackets. They are highly effective in aligning teeth and correcting malocclusions.
The main difference is their appearance. Ceramic brackets are more discreet due to their tooth-like colour, while metal brackets are more visible.
Yes, ceramic braces are just as effective as metal braces in correcting dental alignment. However, treatment with ceramic brackets may take slightly longer because gentler forces are used to move the teeth.
Ceramic brackets are generally more comfortable than metal brackets as they do not have sharp edges and do not cause the same discomfort from chafing. They are also gentler on the soft tissues of the mouth, such as the gums and tongue, which reduces the likelihood of sores.
It can last from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the needs of each patient.
Yes, ceramic brackets are more fragile than metal brackets, which increases the likelihood of them breaking if they are not properly cared for. It is therefore important to follow the orthodontist’s instructions and avoid hard foods that can damage the brackets.
Although ceramic brackets are stain resistant, the consumption of certain foods and drinks such as coffee, tea or red wine can affect their colour. To avoid staining, it is advisable to maintain good oral hygiene and limit consumption of these products.
No, ceramic brackets will not damage your teeth if they are properly cared for. They are designed to adhere firmly to the teeth without affecting the enamel.
The cost of orthodontics varies depending on the case and the type of orthodontics applied. You can consult the Adeslas orthodontics price list by clicking here.
Remember that you can request a free check-up with one of our experts to personally evaluate your case and prepare a detailed estimate.
Prices
The amounts indicated have been estimated in line with a full treatment, in accordance with the parameters in the table. Includes: study, treatment and check-ups during the treatment, so it serves as a guide and is of a merely informative non-contractual nature. The personalised treatment will be examined in line with the medical prescription. Prices can be increased if additional costs are incurred as a result of the requests made by each customer. Price valid until 31 December 2024 except in the event of a typing error.
