Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces use brackets and wires just like metal braces to straighten the teeth. However, the brackets in ceramic braces are clear. Therefore, they are much less visible than traditional braces that use metal wires and brackets. 

Short term ceramic braces take an average of just a few months to straighten your teeth. These work fast as they are usually only used to alleviate cosmetic issues with the front teeth. These braces also require fewer dental surgery visits than traditional braces.

To find out more about ceramic braces, book an appointment at our dental practices in Wandsworth, South West London or Esher, Surrey.

Your orthodontist will do a final exam of your teeth and make sure that your teeth are thoroughly clean and ready for the braces to be fitted. The brackets will then be bonded to your teeth the same way they would with silver metal brackets. 

Firstly, ceramic tooth coloured brackets are carefully positioned and attached to the teeth using a special form of dental cement by the orthodontic specialist. Following this, wires made from either stainless steel or titanium which fit into the brackets are then attached using specialised elastic rubber band ties, which are responsible for the application of gentle forces to move the teeth into the desired position.

On occasion, larger elastic bands are also required for the more complex movement of teeth. Whilst they are similar to traditional metal braces in that they are attached to the front of the teeth, they are significantly less visible than the traditional metal wire systems. This way you will soon forget that you are wearing braces and begin to smile with increased confidence whilst your teeth are becoming straighter.

Treatment time is very much similar to traditional metal braces.

It is a common misconception that because of the clear material of ceramic braces they will stain however, the actual ceramic brackets of your braces are made to resist any staining. They are, in fact, resistant to discolouration. 

Clear braces usually stain as a result of the consumption of a lot of deep coloured foods and drinks such as wine and tea and coffee. They can stain depending on habit. But, if this does become a problem, the bands on the brackets can be changed regularly. 

Yes you will need a retainer after your treatment has ended. They will be moulded to the new alignment of your teeth and you will have to wear them to ensure that your teeth stay in the desired straight position that your treatment has worked to achieve. 

The process of getting ceramic braces fitted may feel a little strange, but it is not painful. It is possible that your mouth may feel a bit tender for a few days after you have the braces fitted, that is normal and can usually be helped by over the counter painkillers. 

Yes. Ceramic braces are suitable for adults and are a great alternative to the traditional metal braces.

• More discreet than traditional braces
  
• The arch wire can be ‘coloured’ to blend with your natural teeth
• They move teeth faster than clear aligners

• They may get stained
  
• Whilst you get your wires tightened, you may feel some pain
  
• They may cause gums sensitivity
  
• They are slightly less durable than metal
  
• They may stain

Your treatment time will entirely depend on the condition of your teeth and how much they need to be aligned. On your first consultation with your orthodontist will be able to tell you how long your treatment time is likely to take. 

There is no need for a local anesthetic for this treatment. 

The number of appointments required will vary greatly from patient to patient and is highly dependent on a number of factors.