Ceramic braces: more aesthetic and comfortable than metal braces, but still with a few "buts"
Are you considering braces, but the idea of metal in your mouth gives you the creeps? Explore a different type of braces - fixed ceramic braces. This more aesthetically pleasing orthodontic appliance offers a number of benefits that could suit your needs and aesthetic preferences. Read on to find out how they work, who they're suitable for, how treatment works, and the key aspects you should consider before choosing them.
In our comprehensive comparison of all types of braces, you may have already discovered that there are ceramic braces and that they fall into the category of aesthetic fixed braces together with the sapphire ones. They work on the same principle as classic fixed metal braces, but with a difference in material - the locks are not metal, but ceramic and the colour of your teeth, and therefore not as visible when you smile.
This tends to be the main reason why people opt for ceramic braces. They don't want to feel self-conscious when they smile - and ceramic braces make this possible.
For whom they are suitable and for whom they are not
People reach for ceramic braces most often because they want decent braces. Because they are usually tooth-colored or white, they are less noticeable.
Ceramic braces may be a good option for you if
- all your adult teeth have grown in and are no longer growing;
- you are allergic to certain metals (ceramic braces are made of materials that are biocompatible and hypoallergenic);
- you are willing to invest more money in a more aesthetically pleasing solution to your orthodontic problems
- is your appearance part of your job or a necessity to boost your self-esteem.
Please note: You will also often come across the phrase "invisible ceramic braces". Do not confuse them with the invisible braces we offer at Braces World - this is a completely different type of braces, which is made of a solid medical thermoplastic material and works on a different principle. Find out more about this type of brace through our client reviews.
In which cases are these braces not suitable?
In addition to the opposite aspects of who they are suitable for (mentioned above), add this one crucial point:
If you play contact sports or engage in activities that require a lot of mouth movement (singing, moderating). In these cases, you may want to consider more durable invisible braces that won't just crack.
Tip: It can be very difficult to speak after getting ceramic braces, so if your job requires you to speak in public or communicate with customers, keep in mind that you should arrange to take time off work after getting braces.
Ceramic braces: advantages and disadvantages
Benefits
- They are less visible than metal braces. The ceramic material used in these braces can be either clear or the color of your teeth.
- They don't interfere with imaging tests. Metal braces may interfere with signals during imaging tests. Ceramic braces cause much less signal interference.
Disadvantages
- They're more expensive than metal braces. Ceramic braces can cost tens of thousands more than traditional metal braces.
- They can cause gum sensitivity.
- They are slightly less durable than metal ones. They are up to twice as likely to be damaged or broken. This can also prolong the teeth straightening process.
- They can discolour easily. In the case of non-selfligating ceramic braces, you will still need elastics (ligatures). And these can easily become discolored - and will stay discolored until you replace them. Although ligatures come in white, they will immediately discolor after drinking coffee, black tea, eating curry, etc.
- Although the locks are ceramic, the arch is still metal and visible. If your orthodontist offers you a white arch, know that it is metal coated with white paint. Unfortunately, the paint will soon wear off.
- Like any other fixed braces, ceramic braces are very demanding in terms of oral hygiene. They are much more prone to tooth decay, especially in children and teenagers who have poorer discipline. Unfortunately, cavities are most likely to show up after braces are removed.
How is the treatment with ceramic braces
What steps can you expect if you choose ceramic braces?
- Initial consultation and treatment planning: you will see an orthodontist who will examine you. Based on the information obtained, the specialist will then develop an individualized treatment plan. This plan takes into account both aesthetic and functional treatment goals.
- Next visit: At the next consultation, he will then take x-rays, impressions of your teeth and assess your needs.
- Putting the braces on: the braces are carefully attached to the teeth using a special adhesive. This process usually takes several hours and is performed by an orthodontist.
- Regular checks: Patients should have regular check-ups every 4 to 6 weeks so that the doctor can monitor progress and adjust braces if necessary.
Thorough daily oral hygiene is also an integral part of the treatment. Count on the fact that:
- you should brush your teeth preferably after every meal,
- it is advisable to use interdental brushes, dental floss and other means (as recommended by the dentist),
- you will probably need to avoid hard, sticky or crunchy foods that could damage your braces, at least at the start of treatment
- if you want to keep your braces from staining too much, you'll need to limit or completely eliminate foods that stain (tomatoes, wine, coffee, tea, soda or condiments like ketchup and mustard) and stop smoking
Consistently following these steps and taking care of your braces ensures the best possible results and a healthy smile after your orthodontic treatment is complete.
Price of ceramic braces
How much you end up paying for ceramic braces will always vary depending on your specific case. However, you should expect a price of 30,000 CZK or more, the most common price range is 30,000-60,000 CZK. In some cases, however, the amount can go up to 90 000 CZK.
Reimbursement by the health insurance company is the same in this case as in any other. If you are not dealing with a severe dental defect, you may get a small one-time allowance for them. The insurance company handles braces differently for minors, and differently for adults. Read in our articleon how insurance reimbursement works.
Duration of treatment with ceramic braces
The time needed to achieve the target results can vary, but usually treatment lasts 2 to 3 years. The exact length depends on the complexity of the case, the age of the patient and the level of cooperation, such as adherence to care and maintenance instructions.
Ceramic vs. classic fixed metal braces
Since there are often questions about this, here is a clear comparison of these two types of braces from different angles.
|
Ceramic |
Metal |
Invisible |
| Aesthetics |
They are very popular due to their aesthetic discretion. They are either transparent or have a colour matched to the colour of the teeth and are therefore less noticeable.
|
They are usually more visible because of their metallic, shiny appearance. Adults or less confident teenagers may see this as a disadvantage.
|
Thanks to the transparent material from which they are made, they are truly invisible on the teeth. |
| Resilience |
Although modern ceramic materials are strong and durable, they are still more prone to cracking or scratching than metal braces. |
They are durable and can withstand high mechanical loads. You don't have to repair them as often as ceramic ones. |
The medical thermoplastic material used is very durable and can withstand high mechanical stress. |
| Comfort |
They may be less comfortable for some patients because of the larger size of the individual locks, which are more irritating to the oral mucosa. |
They are generally smaller and less noticeable on the teeth, which can mean slightly better comfort, especially in the early stages of wear. |
Very comfortable orthodontic treatment. Even these braces take some getting used to after they are fitted. However, it is a quick process. |
| Price |
They are usually more expensive than metal braces, due to the complexity of manufacturing and generally more expensive materials. |
They are more affordable, which makes them a better choice for many families looking for an economical solution to orthodontic care. |
Usually their price is in higher levels than metal and ceramic braces. |
| Duration of treatment |
It lasts a similar length of time as metal braces, i.e. 2-3 years.
|
It lasts similarly long as in the case of ceramic braces, i.e. 2-3 years.
|
Generally shorter because of the mechanics of the movement. Each tooth can be moved individually or in groups, which is not so easy with fixed braces. |
| Care and maintenance |
They require careful maintenance as they are more susceptible to staining from food and drink. |
As with ceramic braces, they require careful maintenance. |
They are not susceptible to staining because you take them out of your mouth to eat and drink. They are also very easy to maintain. |
Ceramic or invisible?
Like all fields, orthodontics is evolving. Why bother with fixed braces when you can achieve the same, if not better, results with minimal fuss with invisible braces?
Book a free consultation with us. You will discover how simple and effective treatment with invisible braces is. We also offer a payment option so that nothing separates you from a beautiful smile - not even finances.
