Clear Braces (Ceramic Braces): How They Work and Cost

Clear braces: what they are and how they work

Clear braces, also called ceramic braces, are fixed orthodontic braces whose brackets are made of ceramic or porcelain that is tooth-colored or transparent, which makes them less noticeable than metal braces (AAO).

In teeth straightening, clear braces work exactly like metal braces: a small bracket is bonded to each tooth, and a thin wire running through the brackets applies gentle, controlled pressure that moves the teeth gradually. The main difference is appearance. At the clinic, a digital scan of the teeth (Aoralscan 3 scanner) is used to plan treatment before it begins, and the brackets are bonded by an orthodontist.

Heard of a "clear bridge" in Jerusalem? In Israel, braces are commonly called גשר ("bridge"), so גשר שקוף ("clear bridge") simply means clear (ceramic) braces, not a dental bridge that replaces missing teeth.

Who are clear braces for?

Clear braces suit most cases that can be treated with fixed braces, including complex cases in which clear aligners are less effective.

According to a systematic review, clear aligners align the dental arches well but control some movements less well (Rossini et al., Angle Orthod, 2015). In the following situations, fixed braces, metal or clear, are usually more appropriate than clear aligners:

• Large rotations of the canines: with clear aligners, rotation accuracy for upper canines was only 32% (Rossini et al., 2015).
• Extrusion (pulling a tooth out): the hardest movement to control with aligners, with about 30% accuracy (Rossini et al., 2015).
• Significant crowding or spacing: crowding or spacing of more than 5 mm is considered a contraindication for clear aligners (Katib et al., Cureus, 2024); severe cases of crooked teeth often need fixed braces.
• Difficulty keeping up with wear time: fixed braces do not depend on how many hours a day the patient wears them.

Clear braces, metal braces or clear aligners?

Clear braces are less noticeable than metal braces but stay on the teeth throughout treatment; clear aligners are barely visible and removable, but must be worn at least 22 hours a day (AAO).

According to a review published in 2024, 45% of the orthodontists surveyed avoided clear aligners in certain cases because of limited effectiveness (Katib et al., Cureus, 2024). If you prefer aligners, read more about Invisalign in Jerusalem.

Clear braces cost: what affects the price?

The cost of clear braces depends on the type of brackets (polycrystalline ceramic or sapphire), the complexity of the case and the length of treatment. After the examination and treatment planning, each patient receives a detailed written estimate. Check that it lists:

• the examination, X-rays as needed and the digital scan;
• bonding the brackets and wires;
• adjustment visits throughout treatment;
• replacing a bracket that breaks or comes off;
• removing the braces and a retainer to keep the result.

Treatment that is not part of the straightening itself, such as tartar removal, fillings or an extraction, may be added if the examination shows it is needed before the brackets are bonded. The clinic also provides itemized receipts that you can submit to your insurer; coverage of orthodontic treatment received in Israel depends on your policy, so check before you start.

How to look after clear braces during treatment

• Careful hygiene: thorough brushing around the brackets and daily cleaning between the teeth to prevent tooth decay.
• Food precautions: avoid hard or sticky foods that could break or loosen a bracket.
• Regular check-ups: keep to the follow-up schedule set at the start.
• Reporting a problem: a bracket that comes loose or cracks, or a wire that pokes, calls for a call to the clinic.
• Retainer after treatment: wear the retainer as instructed to keep the result.

Do clear braces hurt?

Clear braces usually cause pressure and mild soreness in the first days after bonding and after each adjustment, rather than sharp pain; according to a review in the Journal of the American Dental Association, most patients report discomfort lasting a day or two (Buttke & Proffit, JADA, 1999).

At the start of treatment, the brackets may rub against the inside of the cheeks and lips until the tissues adapt. Ask your dentist or pharmacist which pain reliever is suitable for you. Severe or lasting pain, or a sore that does not heal, is a reason to contact the clinic.

Teeth straightening at the clinic always starts with an analysis of the patient's needs, including whether clear braces are the right solution or another method fits better. The clinic is at 12 HaTnufa Street in Talpiot, south Jerusalem, open Sun 8:00–19:00 · Mon 9:00–19:00 · Tue–Wed 9:00–21:00 · Thu 8:30–21:00 · Fri 8:00–14:00.

Sources

• American Association of Orthodontists, Braces – View source
• American Association of Orthodontists, Clear Aligners – View source
• Khalil AS et al., Cureus, 2024 – View source
• Rossini G et al., Angle Orthodontist, 2015 – View source
• Katib HS et al., Cureus, 2024 – View source
• Buttke TM & Proffit WR, Journal of the American Dental Association, 1999 – View source