Transparent and elegant: Sapphire braces under the microscope

Nowadays, a smile with braces is no longer an exception, even for children, adolescents or adults. However, there is an equally growing number of people seeking orthodontic treatment with aesthetic benefits. A great example is sapphire braces - clear brackets made of a material almost as hard as diamond are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also very durable. In our article, we'll tell you how sapphire braces work, what their benefits are, and why they may be the right solution for you.

What are sapphire braces

Sapphire braces fall under the so-called fixed aesthetic braces and offer an elegant alternative to traditional metal braces as you know them. The locks in these braces are made of transparent synthetic sapphire, which has the same chemical structure and composition as natural sapphire. This makes them not only transparent, but also very durable - almost like diamonds!

Advantages and disadvantages of sapphire braces

As with other orthodontic treatments, there are advantages and disadvantages to sapphire braces that you should consider before starting treatment.

Benefits 

• Sapphire braces are completely transparent and are hardly visible behind the teeth at all.
• The material from which the braces are made has a completely smooth surface that does not irritate the gums. 
• This material also does not change its colour over time, i.e. you do not have to worry about yellowing.
• They can solve almost all orthodontic problems (such as malocclusion, gaps between teeth, crooked teeth, various bite problems and others).
• They are suitable for children, adolescents and adults (although most often chosen by adults).
• Sapphire is also a very hard and durable material, which is an advantage because the locks will not crack under normal circumstances.
• Many people who opt for sapphire braces report that they feel more confident and sometimes forget they have braces. 

Disadvantages 

• Due to the quality of the material used, the price is higher than other types of braces.
• They are not recommended for people who regularly engage in sports activities, as frequent bumps on sports equipment such as balls, rackets or bats can cause damage or breakage of the locks.
• All the disadvantages and challenges of traditional fixed braces still apply, i.e. the increased importance of taking care of the teeth with braces and regular visits to the orthodontist.
• The transparent locks are held together by a visible metal arch, so the final braces are not so invisible. 

You will often read that patients with sapphire braces experience shorter treatment times. This is not the case. All fixed braces - whether traditional metal braces or aesthetic braces - have similar treatment times due to the same mechanism of action. 

If you're looking for a faster treatment, reach for invisible braces. Read more about their mechanism of action, advantages and disadvantages in our article. 

How do sapphire braces work and how does the treatment work?

As with traditional braces, the function of sapphire braces is to straighten teeth by applying constant controlled pressure to the teeth. How to get sapphire braces?

The first step involves a consultation with an orthodontist, who will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and determine if sapphire braces are the right choice for you. The orthodontist will then perform all the necessary examinations and plan your treatment. 

During the consultation, the orthodontist will explain the entire process, including the phasing of treatment, the expected time of wearing braces and the care of the braces. 

The application of sapphire braces itself is painless and usually takes a few hours. The orthodontist will attach the individual sapphire brackets to your teeth and connect them with a wire. After the application, you will be given detailed instructions on how to care for your braces and a schedule of regular check-ups.

Interested in learning more about life with braces? Explore our magazine. 

Sapphire braces: price

As always, there are a few factors that will affect the price of braces - even sapphire ones: 

• length of treatment, 
• the complexity of the case and 
• the price set by the orthodontist.

Therefore, discuss the cost of braces directly with your orthodontist. However, you should expect a price starting at about 40,000 CZK. 

It is important to find out if your health insurance covers part of the cost of orthodontic treatment. Many insurance companies offer benefits to help reduce the overall financial burden at least a little. Some orthodontic clinics also offer an installment payment option. At Braces World, you can get invisible braces from as little as 691 CZK per month.

Sapphire braces are becoming increasingly available in a variety of locations, thanks to the growing demand for aesthetic orthodontic solutions. Before you make a decision, it's a good idea to find out about the options in your area and compare quotes from different orthodontists.

The difference between sapphire braces and other types of braces

Sapphire vs. ceramic braces 

The main difference between sapphire and ceramic braces is that sapphire braces are more transparent than ceramic braces due to the material they are made of. However, both are classified as fixed, aesthetically pleasing braces.

Sapphire vs metal braces 

The main difference between metal and sapphire braces is that the former are made of metal, making them less impact resistant and less visually discreet.

Sapphire vs invisible braces 

Invisible braces are more discreet and offer greater comfort as well as more pleasant and thorough dental care, as they can be removed while eating or brushing your teeth. Both types of braces are also suitable for more challenging orthodontic cases.

For a comprehensive comparison of all types of braces, read our detailed comparison of braces types.

Frequently asked questions about sapphire braces

Do sapphire braces stain?

Sapphire braces are made of high quality material that does not tend to get dirty over time. However, good oral hygiene is necessary to maintain the appearance of sapphire braces.

What can I eat with sapphire braces?

During treatment with any type of braces, it is advisable to avoid foods that are difficult to chew or very sweet, such as sticky foods, chewing gum, very hard foods such as nougat, very hard fruits such as coconut, etc.

What are sapphire braces made of?

Sapphire braces are made of synthetic sapphire, a material almost as hard as diamond. Therefore, they are recommended for fixed aesthetic orthodontic treatment.

Summary and conclusion

If you are considering orthodontic treatment and are looking for a discreet and effective method, sapphire braces may be the right choice. Visit your orthodontist to find out if sapphire braces are right for you.

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