What does “Ceramic orthodontic brackets” mean?
Ceramic orthodontic brackets are tooth-coloured ceramic attachments bonded to tooth surfaces. Tooth movement is planned together with wires and other components. A less conspicuous appearance and suitability for treatment are assessed separately.
Check appearance alongside the actual components
Tooth-coloured brackets may be chosen to make appliances less conspicuous than metal-coloured parts. Wires and connections still need separate consideration. Less visibility does not establish superior tooth-movement results.
Assess contact with the opposing teeth
Ceramic is hard, so if opposing teeth contact the brackets, as can occur with a deep bite, tooth wear needs consideration. Attachment positions and the extent of use are assessed individually. Removal also requires consideration of the material and tooth surfaces; do not remove brackets yourself.
Cleaning and reviews remain necessary after choosing the material
Control plaque and food around brackets and wires, and report breakage or detachment. If you have reacted to metal, check the actual materials to be used, including the wires as well as the brackets. The plan also includes retention after tooth movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ceramic brackets always safe for someone with a metal allergy?
All appliance materials need to be checked. A bracket name does not tell you what the wires or other components contain. Report previous reactions and discuss assessment and alternatives.
Does ceramic mean treatment takes longer?
Material alone cannot determine an individual’s duration. Discuss the plan in light of the movement required, bite, tissue condition, actual appliance configuration and progress.
Checking suitability and care for ceramic brackets
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Will the opposing teeth contact the brackets in my bite?
Explanation and evidenceAsk about bite depth, attachment positions, wear risk and alternatives using other materials or appliances.
British Orthodontic Society: Fixed appliance materials, ceramic brackets and lingual braces - Care after treatment
What should I check about other components and their care?
Explanation and evidenceConfirm wire and connection materials, allergy history, cleaning, whom to contact for breakage, and removal and retention plans.
British Orthodontic Society: Nickel allergy in orthodontic materials (reviewed 2019)
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- British Orthodontic Society: Fixed appliance materials, ceramic brackets and lingual bracesbos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- British Orthodontic Society: Nickel allergy in orthodontic materials (reviewed 2019)bos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- NHS: Orthodontic appliance components, care and retentionnhs.uk (opens in a new tab)
