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How long does it take to get ceramic braces put on?

If you're considering ceramic braces for a more discreet orthodontic treatment, you might be wondering: How long does it take to get ceramic braces put on??Ceramic braces tend to use a very similar bonding technique to traditional metal braces, which are attached to the teeth. On average, the process to put on the braces takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on individual needs and the orthodontist's technique.

In this guide, we'll explain the ceramic braces application time, factors affecting the braces fitting duration, and provide tips on how to prepare for your appointment. Whether you're curious about the duration of braces installation or what to expect during your orthodontic appointment, we've got you covered!

Understanding the ceramic braces process

Ceramic braces are an increasingly popular type that has come to replace traditional metallic braces as they tend to blend better with the teeth, making them less noticeable. However, both types of braces take a similar amount of time.

  • The whole process usually involves:

  • Initial consultation (30-60 minutes)

  • Preparing for braces (X-rays, impressions, etc.)

  • The actual appointment in which the braces are applied (1-2 hours)

  • Follow-ups for adjustment (every 4-8 weeks)

Let us get into the details of each stage.

Initial consultation (30-60 minutes)

Before getting ceramic braces, an initial consultation with the orthodontist is required. They will:

  • Look into your teeth's health and bite.

  • Outline treatment alternatives (ceramic versus metal braces, etc.)

  • Take X-rays or digital scans as necessary.

  • Go through the procedure with ceramic braces and give time estimates.

It usually takes anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many questions you have.

Preparing for braces (1-2 appointments, 30-60 minutes each)

Once you've decided to go ahead with ceramic braces, your orthodontist will likely schedule a series of steps leading up to the application of your braces. They may include these:

Dental impressions or digital scans (20-30 minutes)

  • One of the traditional molds or 3D scanning would be performed to obtain an accurate model of your teeth.

  • Aids in customizing braces to match your treatment plan.

Teeth cleaning (30-45 minutes)

  • Clean teeth are a precondition for the bonding of brackets onto them.

  • A hygienist would remove the plaque through professional teeth cleaning.

Spacers (if needed) (10-15 minutes)

  • Some patients may need spacers placed between their teeth—small rubber bands used to create space for the brackets.

  • They would be placed a week before the actual placement of the braces.

The braces fitting appointment (1-2 hours)

This is when you get your ceramic braces fitted, and here's how it goes:

Step: :1 Cleaning and drying your teeth (10-15 minutes) (H4)

  • Your teeth are polished to make sure the brackets adhere nicely.

  • A special solution is applied to dry the teeth.

Step 2: Applying bonding glue (10-20 minutes)

Each tooth will be covered in a dental adhesive, onto which brackets will be placed.

Step 3. Placing the ceramic brackets (30-45 minutes)

  • Each bracket is carefully positioned on your teeth.

  • A curing light hardens the adhesive to secure the brackets.

Step 4: Attaching the archwire (10-15 minutes)

  • A thin metal wire (archwire) is threaded through the brackets.

  • Archwire is held by either small elastic bands (ligatures) or clips.

Step 5: Final adjustments (10-15 minutes)

Your orthodontist will check whether the braces are fitting properly and may make a few more minor adjustments. You will be given post-braces care directions and a brace care kit.

Follow-up adjustments (every 4-8 weeks, 20-30 minutes each)

Braces need periodic adjustments to ensure teeth are moving in the right direction. These appointments typically last for 20-30 minutes and include:

  • Tightening or replacing the archwire.

  • Changing elastic ligatures (if used).

  • Checking progress and making necessary tweaks.

Factors that affect the duration of braces installation

The orthodontic appointment length for ceramic braces depends on various factors:

Complexity of the case

If the problem is major, such as extreme misalignment or bite issues, it will take a longer time. Minor cases may be faster.

Patient compliance

Keeping the mouth relaxed aids in faster work progress for the orthodontist. Any disturbance or discomfort will tend to lengthen the time.

Orthodontist's experience

An orthodontist with experience will conduct the procedure more expediently.

Additional procedures

The timeline would be increased if tooth extractions or spacers are required, or if gum disease has to be treated first

What to expect after getting ceramic braces?

Once fitted with braces, you can expect to experience the following:

  • Minor pain when the braces are first installed for about 1-3 days as the teeth adjust.

  • Eating will not be easy, soft foods will be recommended during this time.

The orthodontist will provide an orthodontic care kit with wax, floss threaders, etc., and offer some cleaning tips to make the process easier for you.

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How long does it take to get braces on?

The entire process of fitting ceramic braces typically takes about 1 to 2 hours for the actual application. This time is in addition to the hours spent on preparatory appointments such as scans, cleaning, and spacers. Initially, these braces may cause some irritation and discomfort, but this will subside in a week or so.
Patients need to return every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments throughout their 18 to 36-month treatment period. The process takes time, but each visit gets you closer to that perfect smile.
With proper care and maintenance, ceramic braces offer the perfect balance between discretion and orthodontic effectiveness. Schedule an appointment today to start your personalized treatment plan!

FAQs

FAQs
The actual application process usually takes 1-2 hours.
No, they take the same time as metal braces.
Rarely does treatment take less than 18 to 36 months, although some minor adjustments may show results earlier.

References

American Association of Orthodontists. How Do Braces Work? (https://aaoinfo.org/treatments/braces/). Accessed 1/13/2023.

Mayo Clinic. Braces and Retainers.

(https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/braces/about/pac-20384648). Accessed 4/21/2025.

Cleveland Clinic. Braces: Types, Procedure, and Care.

(https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24601-teeth-braces). Accessed 4/21/2025.

WebMD. Ceramic Braces: What to Know.

(https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/braces-and-retainers). Accessed 4/21/2025. Healthline. What Are Ceramic Braces? Pros, Cons, Cost.

(https://www.healthline.com/health/ceramic-braces). Accessed 4/21/2025.

Dentaly.org. Ceramic Braces: Clear Braces for Adults & Teens.

(https://www.dentaly.org/us/ceramic-braces/). Accessed 4/21/2025.

American Association of Orthodontists. Orthodontic FAQs: Your Questions Answered. Available at:

https://aaoinfo.org/resources/faqs/page/17/ Accessed 4/22/2025.

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