If you're looking for a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces, ceramic braces may be the solution for you. With clear or tooth-coloured brackets and thin metal wires, ceramic braces are much less noticeable than their metal counterparts.
Like metal braces, ceramic braces are attached to the front of your teeth and are similar in size and shape. However, their subtle appearance makes them a popular choice for patients who are self-conscious about wearing braces.
Ceramic braces can be a suitable option if you're not a candidate for Invisalign treatment due to the severity of your teeth' irregularities. Additionally, they are a more budget-friendly alternative to lingual braces, which are braces attached to the back of your teeth for a completely invisible look.
At The Campbell Clinic, we utilise Clarity Ceramic Brackets by 3M, which is a state-of-the-art cosmetic brace option. The brackets are designed to be nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for those who are seeking discreet orthodontic treatment.
3M is a leading science-based technology company that is dedicated to enhancing people's lives while conducting business in an ethical manner. As a result of their commitment to ethical business practices, 3M has been recognized as the World's Most Ethical Company for three consecutive years.
We take great pride in offering our patients high-quality orthodontic treatments, and Clarity Ceramic Brackets by 3M is an excellent example of our commitment to excellence.
Dependent on the treatment objectives, some treatments can take 1-2 years. Some limited objective treatment plans can be completed in 6-9 months.
No, the brace is bonded to your teeth and works constantly until the end of your treatment when our consultant orthodontist will debond it for you.
Yes, once your brace has settled in you will be able to enjoy food like you used to. Be mindful of hard and crunchy foods as these could damage the brace and the wires. The consumption of sugary food and drinks should be kept to a minimum or avoided totally to avoid tooth decay.
Cleaning your teeth with braces requires some extra care and attention, as the brackets and wires can trap food particles and make it harder to clean your teeth effectively.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after every meal. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and angle it towards the gum line and brush in circular motions, making sure to clean around the brackets and wires.
Whilst using a normal toothbrush is fine, it is also useful to use interspace brushes such as Tepe brushes. Choose a brush that fits comfortably between your teeth and use it to remove any food particles or plaque.
You can also use floss or super floss but we will show how best to use this.
If your brace breaks, don't worry as this can happen. Assess the damage, if the wire is still in place leave it in place until you can see your orthodontist. Then make an appointment with your orthodontist to come in and have it fixed.
The ceramic brackets of your braces will never stain, as they're resistant to discolouration. However, the clear elastic bands that we use to attach the wire to your brackets can stain. Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can cause the bands to become discoloured and more visible. Some ingredients like turmeric and tomato-based sauces can also leave stains on the bands.
Fortunately, the bands are changed during every adjustment appointment. This means that any stains or discolouration will be removed, and your braces will look as good as new.
If you're concerned about staining, we recommend avoiding certain foods and drinks during your treatment. You can also take extra care to brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and braces clean and healthy.
Yes! The colour relates to the elastic bands that are used to tie the wire into the brace. You can still have coloured elastics whether you are having metal or ceramic braces.
At The Campbell Clinic, we typically do not use ceramic brackets on lower teeth. This is because the ceramic material is harder than enamel, and a ceramic brace on the lower teeth could potentially damage the upper teeth by wearing them down or chipping them.
To ensure the best possible outcome for our patients, we use metal brackets on the lower teeth as they are more durable and less likely to cause any damage to the surrounding teeth.
While ceramic braces are a great option for many patients, it's important to consider the unique characteristics of your teeth and mouth when choosing the right type of braces for you. Our experienced orthodontists will work with you to determine the best treatment plan to achieve your desired results while prioritising the health and safety of your teeth.