Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are fixed to the front of the teeth like metal braces but are made with clear ceramic blocks and tooth-coloured wires so they blend in more subtly with the rest of the mouth.

Ceramic braces work in much the same way as metal braces. Brackets and archwires are fixed to the front of the teeth to help move the teeth into the desired position. The archwires will be tightened every few weeks or so here at the practice to keep the teeth moving in the right direction.

The length of treatment time with ceramic braces varies according to the individual patient. Some minor overcrowding issues could be treated within six months, for example, but most patients wear their braces for 12-18 months.

• Overcrowding.
• Spacing/gaps between teeth.
• Overbite.
• Underbite.
• Crossbite.
• Open bite.
• Impacted teeth.
• Overjet.
• Rotated teeth.

Many patients experience some discomfort when they first start wearing their braces. The brackets may also cause some friction inside the mouth in the first week or so whilst your cheeks and lips adapt.

These problems can be easily overcome with over-the-counter pain relief and orthodontic wax, which will be demonstrated to you by your dentist when your appliance is fitted.

We’ll advise you on the most appropriate way to keep up with your oral health when we fit you for your braces, but yes, you will need a special brush to get between the brackets and wires.

It’s best to avoid food and drinks that might stain while wearing your ceramic braces, as well as particularly hard or very chewy food, as these could damage the brackets or wires.

We always recommend wearing a retainer once orthodontic treatment is successful – this is to ensure your teeth stay in their new, straight position.