Combined Braces

At the Kiadent Clinic for Personalized Prosthetics, you can opt for combined braces. Ceramic braces are used for the upper jaw and metal braces for the lower jaw. This is a compromise option — they remain invisible when smiling and effectively correct bite issues.

Combined braces are a type of orthodontic device considered one of the most reliable, aesthetic, and affordable solutions for correcting bite issues.

Combined systems are made using two types of braces. For example, metal braces can be fixed on the lower jaw, where they take up less space and won’t grind against the upper teeth when closing. Meanwhile, ceramic braces are aesthetically pleasing on the upper jaw in the smile zone.

Full Range of Services for Combined Braces

• Orthodontist consultation
• Retainers
• Diagnostics (impressions, creation, and analysis of models)
• Installment plans for combined braces – 1.5 years (monthly price for two jaws, all-inclusive)
• All-inclusive braces (diagnostics, installation, scheduled visits, archwire replacements, removal, retainers)
• All-inclusive braces (manufacturing, installation, scheduled visits, archwire replacements, removal)

In addition to standard indications for braces (malocclusion, diastemas, crowded teeth, retained teeth), specific indications for combined systems include:

Achieving both aesthetics and functionalitySignificant misalignments and bite defects are effectively treated with braces made from metal alloys. However, these are highly visible and may cause psychological discomfort. Therefore, metal braces are preferred for side teeth and/or the lower jaw, while ceramic braces are used for the front teeth.

Limited budgetFor severe dental anomalies, metal braces are often recommended due to their cost-effectiveness. However, any system can effectively correct the bite. Cost is the primary factor — sapphire brackets are significantly more expensive than metal ones. Combined systems can save up to 5,000 UAH.

Advantages over conventional orthodontic systems:

• Aesthetic in the smile zoneCeramic braces installed on the front upper teeth are almost invisible.
• ComfortSapphire/ceramic systems prevent microtrauma to the mucosa and maintain clear speech.
• Shorter treatment durationCorrecting dental issues with ceramic or sapphire braces can take up to 3 years. Combining these with metal braces accelerates the process by increasing pressure, reducing treatment time to 1–1.5 years.
• DurabilitySapphire/ceramic brackets are quite fragile. For molars, it is more practical to use metal brackets that withstand chewing forces.
• Affordable priceCeramic systems are significantly more expensive than metal ones. Combining systems reduces the final cost.

Disadvantages:

• More complicated maintenanceMetal-ceramic or metal-sapphire combinations require more thorough cleaning compared to classic systems.

We haven’t listed common drawbacks of all braces, such as slight speech changes after installation. These discomforts occur during the adaptation period as the teeth and periodontal tissues adjust to the foreign structure. These symptoms usually disappear within 1–2 weeks.

Metal-Ceramic

One of the most common combinations. Ceramic braces are used for teeth that don’t require significant pressure, typically in the smile zone on the upper jaw. Porcelain systems are nearly invisible, with colors that match the tooth enamel. Metal brackets are applied to the entire lower jaw and the side teeth of the upper jaw.

Compared to sapphire, ceramic is slightly stronger and more affordable.

Metal-Sapphire

An aesthetic and comfortable design. The principle of operation is similar to metal-ceramic braces. The difference lies in sapphire's transparency, making it ideal for patients with naturally light enamel for the best aesthetic results.

There are two installation protocols:

• Direct — the orthodontist assembles the system directly in the patient’s mouth. Each bracket is attached separately, along with archwires for each tooth.
• Indirect — the system is first created on a gypsum model of the jaw and then adhered to the teeth.

After installation, a series of activations (adjustments to the archwire's tension) is needed. Follow-up visits are typically scheduled every 4–6 weeks for adjustments and ligature replacements.

When the braces are removed, the doctor places fixed retainers (orthodontic wires) on the inner surface of the teeth to prevent them from shifting back. Additionally, clear removable aligners may be prescribed.

The duration of retainer use is determined by the doctor.

Recommendations for usage:

• Avoid smoking during the treatment periodTobacco smoke and tar encourage pathogenic bacteria growth, leading to rapid caries and calculus formation.
• Avoid hard, sticky, staining, cold/hot foodsSuch foods can damage the system or degrade its appearance.
• If a bracket irritates the mucosa, use protective wax to shield it.
• Attend regular check-ups and activations with the orthodontistThe frequency of visits is determined by the doctor, usually every 4–6 weeks. Adjustments to the archwires and ligatures are made during these appointments.
• Maintain excellent oral hygieneBrush your teeth and braces twice daily with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Rinse your mouth after meals with water or a special rinse. Use an interdental brush to clean the orthodontic system.