What are clear ceramic braces and what do they cost in the UK

Aesthetic or clear orthodontics simulate the colour of the tooth enamel, so they’re practically unnoticeable. Within the category of ‘aestehtic orthodontics,’ we find removable orthodontics, such as invisible aligners, and fixed orthodontics such as lingual braces or clear braces, which are usually made from sapphire or ceramic braces. As it can be difficult to differentiate between the many aesthetic orthodontics solutions available, we’ll give you all the information about ceramic orthodontic braces.

What are orthodontic ceramic braces and what are they made of?

Ceramic fixed braces are, as their name indicates, made of ceramic. They are almost invisible due to their colour that’s similar to natural tooth enamel. In addition, there are different shades to adapt to each tooth colour and to offer a much more discreet treatment to all patients.

However, it is important to know that in some cases the braces are fixed with a white wire, while other patients will have to wear a metal wire. They are fitted in the same way as conventional metal braces in that they exert pressure that gradually moves the teeth until a perfectly aligned smile is achieved.

Porcelain braces are as efficient as metal braces and are great for children, teens and adults. They can treat the vast majority of common dental problems, meaning, they can treat bite problems, moderate or complex crowding, overbite, overjet, underbite, crossbite, gapped teeth, etc.

Ceramic braces pros and cons

Just as with other types of orthodontics, ceramic fixed braces have some pros and cons in comparison to other treatments and it’s important to consider these before deciding on a treatment.

Advantages of ceramic braces

When talking about metal vs ceramic braces, the ceramic option is more discrete, which is preferable for patients seeking aesthetic treatment, since they are a similar colour to tooth enamel. Their discreteness makes ceramic braces a popular choice for adults. Additionally, ceramic orthodontic braces have the advantage of being less expensive than sapphire or lingual orthodontics.

Disadvantages of ceramic braces

Although ceramic braces are more aesthetic than metal one, they still have some disadvantages. Firstly, the colour of porcelain braces adapts well to naturally whiter teeth, but can sometimes be less discreet on yellower tones. In addition, another con of ceramic braces is you may notice them getting slightly more yellow over time.

Another con of ceramic braces, as with other fixed orthodontics, transparent orthodontic rubber bands also tend to yellow over time. So, you’ll want to avoid foods that may stain, such as coffee, wine, red fruits and tea. Another disadvantage of ceramic braces is how long the treatment takes: typically 18 to 36 months, making them one of the slowest orthodontic treatments on the market. Finally, orthodontic ceramic braces are also more fragile than metal, so you must be careful when eating very hard foods.

Cost of ceramic braces in the UK

In the UK, ceramic braces cost less than other types of invisible orthodontics, making them a more affordable option than sapphire or lingual orthodontics.

The cost of ceramic braces varies depending on the complexity of the case, the area you live in and your choice of orthodontist, among many other factors. Bearing this in mind, ceramic orthodontic braces cost on average a total of between £2000 and £3000.

How to keep ceramic braces clean

Learning how to keep ceramic braces white and clean is of vital importance should you choose this treatment option. In some cases, orthodontic ceramic braces can become stained over time, so you must take care to avoid yellowing. In addition, it’s important to take care to avoid breakage, as they can be more delicate than other orthodontic devices

• In order to keep ceramic braces white for longer, you should avoid foods with strong colour that can stain, such as tea, coffee, wine or curry.
• Smoking is always discouraged in terms of health, but in the case of porcelain braces it can also affect the appearance of the brackets and cause them to change colour faster. Therefore, we advise you to stop smoking if you want to maintain the aesthetics of your braces for as long as possible.
  
• Since orthodontic ceramic braces are more fragile than metal ones, you should avoid hard and sticky foods, such as candy and chewing gum.
  
• You should also be careful not to bite directly into certain fruits and choose instead pre-cut pieces. As for bread, orthodontists recommend eating sliced bread, which is much softer.

Main differences between ceramic braces and other types of orthodontics

Before beginning an aesthetic orthodontic treatment, you should explore the options on the market and know what makes ceramic braces different from others. Keep reading to find out.

Sapphire braces vs ceramic

If you are wondering whether to choose sapphire vs ceramic braces, let us show you their main differences in terms of aesthetics, duration and price.

Aesthetics

Sapphire braces are made of sapphire crystal for a much more transparent treatment that adapts to all enamel shades. Although both are worn with a metal archwire, sapphire braces offer a more aesthetically pleasing result because they do not get stained over time, so you won’t need to worry about sapphire braces getting yellow.

Duration

Both have a similar duration, between 18 and 36 months depending on the complexity of the case.

Cost

Orthodontic ceramic braces are slightly cheaper, as the average in the UK is between £2000 and £3000 for the full treatment, while sapphire braces can cost up to £4500.

Metal vs ceramic braces

Aesthetics

Orthodontic ceramic braces are more aesthetic since their colour is similar to tooth enamel, while metal ones are more noticeable due to their colour

Duration

While clear ceramic braces need between 18 and 36 months, metal braces have a shorter treatment time of around 12 to 24 months, but of course this depends on the complexity of the case. This is an important point to consider when deciding between ceramic braces vs metal.

Cost

Clear ceramic braces cost a little more; the average in the UK is between £2000 and £3000, while metal braces can cost between £1700 and £2500.

Impress clear orthodontics: An alternative to ceramic braces

There is a type of clear orthodontics that has revolutionised the sector: clear aligners. Our Impress treatments involve this type of aesthetic orthodontics and below are some of their advantages:

Aesthetics

Clear aligners are much more aesthetically pleasing than ceramic orthodontic braces. They are completely invisible and are made of a non-yellowing, non-staining material.

Hygiene

Aligners allow you to maintain excellent dental hygiene. They can be removed for proper brushing and flossing. It is more difficult to maintain the same level of hygiene with any type of fixed device. Braces make it difficult for the toothbrush to reach certain areas, which in the long run can lead to plaque and bad breath.

Comfort

Ceramic braces are a bit more uncomfortable to wear, since the wire of clear ceramic braces is in direct contact with mouth tissue and can cause irritation and ulcers. The aligners are custom-made and fit your teeth perfectly during all stages of treatment.

Follow-up

While you are wearing braces, your orthodontist needs to see you every 3 weeks to adjust them so that they continue to put pressure on your teeth. Impress clear aligners give you more freedom during your follow-up care. Since you receive all the aligners at the beginning of your treatment, you only need your orthodontist's approval to move on to the next set. For this, we have created a professional dental mobile app, from which you can scan your teeth and send the photo directly to your doctor for approval. We also give you the option to visit a clinic if you would rather. Both types of follow-up are included in the total price of the treatment.

Price

Aligners might be much more practical and aesthetically, but they are also more affordable than porcelain braces. Impress treatment plans have fixed, all-inclusive prices. In addition, they are accessible and can be paid in installments to suit you.

Now that you know all the advantages of Impress clear aligners, don’t hesitate to put yourself in the hands of our orthodontic specialists. You can get in touch with us by WhatsApp, by phone at 44 20 3808 1072, or by filling out our online form.

Come in and learn more about our pricing with absolutely no obligation. We’ll be waiting for you at your nearest Impress clinic!