Ceramic braces use the same mechanical principles as metal braces — brackets bonded to each tooth connected by an archwire — but the brackets are made from tooth-coloured ceramic or composite material, making them far less visible. They offer the same precision and effectiveness as metal braces while being significantly more discreet. Dentour partner clinics offer ceramic braces using premium polycrystalline and monocrystalline bracket systems at 60–65% below Western European prices.
Panoramic and cephalometric X-rays, digital impressions, and clinical photographs are taken. A detailed treatment plan is formulated and reviewed with the patient before any appliances are placed.
Tooth surfaces are cleaned and conditioned, and tooth-coloured ceramic brackets are bonded using dental adhesive. A clear or white archwire is threaded through and secured with clear or tooth-coloured elastic ligatures. The appointment takes approximately 90 minutes.
Every 6–10 weeks, archwires are changed and brackets checked. Clear or white elastic ties are replaced at each visit to maintain aesthetics. Appointments can be handled locally between Moldova visits using the shared treatment plan.
Mid-treatment X-rays and photographs are reviewed to confirm tooth movement is progressing as planned. Adjustments to the treatment plan are made if needed.
Ceramic brackets are carefully removed and the tooth surface is polished. Ceramic brackets are more brittle than metal — removal requires specific instruments and care, and is included in the treatment protocol.
Impressions or digital scans are taken immediately after debonding to fabricate custom retainers, which are fitted to maintain the orthodontic result.
3
Visits
5
Days stay
12–24 months active treatment; retainer worn long-term after
Healing
Orthodontic records, digital impressions, treatment planning, and ceramic bracket bonding. Patient travels home with braces in place.
Archwire adjustments every 6–10 weeks, performed by a local orthodontist using the shared treatment plan, or during periodic return trips to Moldova.
Careful removal of ceramic brackets, tooth surface polishing, and fabrication and fitting of custom retainers. Final records and photographs provided.
Tooth-coloured ceramic brackets are far less noticeable than metal, making ceramic braces popular with adults and image-conscious teenagers.
Ceramic braces deliver the same orthodontic forces and range of tooth movement as metal braces, suitable for mild to complex cases.
High-quality ceramic brackets have rounded edges and a smooth surface that is gentler on lips and cheeks compared to early ceramic designs.
Premium monocrystalline sapphire brackets are highly resistant to staining, maintaining their translucent appearance throughout treatment.
Clear or white elastic ligatures can absorb stain from coffee, tea, red wine, and certain foods. This is cosmetically visible but ties are replaced at each adjustment appointment.
Ceramic brackets are more brittle than metal and more prone to fracturing if struck or subjected to very hard foods. Breakage may require an unscheduled appointment for replacement.
In patients with a deep bite, opposing teeth can occlude against ceramic brackets, causing enamel wear on the opposing dentition. Your orthodontist will assess bite clearance before placement.
Eat soft foods and avoid anything hard or sticky. Use orthodontic wax if brackets irritate the cheeks. Take over-the-counter pain relief for initial soreness.
Avoid hard foods (nuts, crusty bread, raw carrots), sticky foods (gum, toffee), and highly pigmented foods and drinks (coffee, red wine, turmeric-based dishes) to prevent bracket fracture and tie staining.
Brush after every meal with a soft brush at a 45-degree angle around each bracket. Use floss threaders, interdental brushes, or a water flosser to clean under the archwire. A fluoride mouthwash is recommended.
Clear elastic ties will pick up some stain between appointments — this is unavoidable with dietary pigments. New ties are placed at every adjustment, restoring the aesthetic appearance.
If a bracket fractures, contact the clinic for advice. Keep a small piece of orthodontic wax to secure any sharp edges. If you are abroad, visit a local orthodontist for temporary repair.
Wear retainers as instructed — full-time for 3–6 months post-debonding, then nightly indefinitely. This is essential to prevent relapse of tooth movement.
Ceramic brace treatment follows the same dental tourism model as metal braces. The initial bonding visit takes 3–5 days in Moldova. Routine adjustment appointments (every 6–10 weeks) can be managed locally using your shared treatment plan. A final debonding and retainer visit requires 2–3 days. Most patients make 2–3 trips to Moldova across the full 12–24 month treatment duration.