How they compare with metal
Both types use brackets and a wire. Both stay fixed on your teeth until treatment ends.
Ceramic brackets are harder to see from a distance. They are also a little larger and easier to chip.
Who they suit
Adults and older teenagers often pick ceramic for work or university. If you bite hard or play contact sport, your dentist may suggest metal for some teeth.
Keeping the ties clear
The small elastic ties around each bracket can yellow between visits. Some food and drink marks them faster:
- Karak tea and coffee
- Curry and turmeric
- Cola and red sauces
You do not need to give these up. Brush soon after, or rinse with water if you are out.
Looking after them
Use a soft brush and avoid whitening toothpaste with harsh grit. Clean under the wire with a small interdental brush.
Come to each adjustment on time. Your dentist changes the ties at those visits, so they start fresh.
When treatment ends
Your dentist takes the brackets off with care, since ceramic is more brittle than metal. You then move to a retainer.
Ceramic braces or clear aligners?
Both are harder to see than metal braces. Ceramic braces stay fixed, so you cannot forget to wear them.
Aligners come out for meals, which makes eating and cleaning easier. They only work if you wear them most of the day.
Your orthodontist will tell you which suits your bite.
When metal suits some teeth
If your bite is deep, ceramic brackets on the lower teeth can rub against the upper teeth. Your orthodontist may then use metal brackets on the lower teeth only.
This keeps the look of ceramic where it shows most.
Planning around events
Weddings and graduations happen during treatment. Ceramic braces show less in photos.
Ask us to time an adjustment a week or two before a big day, so your teeth have settled.
A daily routine that works
- Brush after each meal with a soft brush
- Clean under the wire with an interdental brush
- Rinse after coffee, karak or curry if you cannot brush
- Check the brackets in a mirror each night
Who plans your braces
Our consultant orthodontist, Dr J Ashok, plans ceramic braces treatment at the clinic. Dr Ashok has 33 years of experience.
The first few weeks
Your lips and cheeks need time to get used to the brackets. Some people speak a little differently for a few days.
Cut food into small pieces and chew with your back teeth. Hard bread, nuts and ice can chip ceramic brackets.