There are several options for braces, differing in design and material.
From their variety, each patient can easily select those that will correct the existing malocclusion and will correspond to their financial capabilities.
For those clients who, in addition to results, care about aesthetics while wearing braces, dentists recommend installing Inspire Ice.
Manufacturer
Inspire Ice braces are manufactured by the American corporation Ormco. It was created in the USA in the 60s of the last century , and four decades later began to occupy a leading position among the world manufacturers of orthodontic products.
The main directions of the corporation are regular improvement of manufactured products, development of new production technologies, and work for each specific patient.
The corporation includes several large companies specializing in the production of various brace systems, tools and equipment for working with them.
The company's leading specialists regularly improve treatment methods and offer new ones to get rid of pathologies of the dentofacial apparatus. They were the first to propose for production:
- diamond-shaped and lingual braces;
- titanium-molybdenum arcs;
- Plasma trimming of bracket pads.
The corporation has established quality control over all its products, so all of them are distinguished by reliability and impeccable quality.
Indications and contraindications
Inspire Ice braces are primarily aimed at preserving the aesthetics of teeth, which affects the duration and quality of bite correction. Orthodontists recommend installing Inspire Ice in patients with minor deviations in bite, for whom the appearance of the orthodontic structure is important.
The course of treatment with Inspire Ice braces takes from 2 to 3 years. Please note that in addition to wearing braces, after removing them, you will have to endure a long retention period in order to consolidate the results of the treatment. Consolidation of results can take up to 5 years.
Contraindications to installing Inspire Ice include serious bite pathologies. This model of braces simply does not have sufficient force on the dentition in case of severe curvature.
Production technology
The basis of these braces is sapphire, but not natural, but its high-tech analogue, manufactured in factories. The production process itself is complex and consists of several stages:
- Melting aluminum oxide to obtain a monocrystalline mass.
- By compressing this mass, a sapphire is formed, and its diameter can reach a meter (unlike natural, it turns out to be completely transparent).
- The resulting sapphire is molded into even, but different in parameters, plates.
- They are then cut into portions.
- Each piece is polished to maximum smoothness and the required shape, and then faceted.
Important: artificial sapphire is safe for humans, hypoallergenic, pigmentation resistant and very durable. Its unique property of refracting and completely reflecting light rays makes it almost invisible on enamel.
Separately from this process, an arc is made, to which the stone will then be attached (polycarbonate or Teflon can be used as the material for its manufacture).
Afterwards, the entire structure is sent to the clinic, where a specialist will produce a single orthodontic structure on site - braces. Next, they are heat treated or fired, which minimizes the likelihood of them breaking or deforming during the treatment process.
Design Features
Typically, braces consist of at least three elements:
- Arc;
- Elastic bands (elastic ligatures);
- Braces.
The arch performs the main function - it pulls the teeth in the required direction in order to align the dentition. It is usually made from high quality medical steel or alloys, one of the alloys commonly used is nickel titanium.
Requirements that arc alloys must meet:
- Inertness (lack of ability to cause rejection reactions, allergies and other side effects from the body).
- Wear resistance (the arc must retain its shape and elasticity for a long time).
The second element of the bracket system design is elastic ligatures (rubber bands). They can be made from different materials; their main task is to secure the arch in the groove of the bracket (part of the system that is fixed to the surface of the tooth).
The third main element is the bracket. This part can be made of plastic, ceramics, sapphire, metal. The main function of the bracket is to transmit the impulse of movement from the arch to the tooth, which is the mechanism of operation of the bracket system.
System Features
Inspire Ice braces have several features that distinguish them from similar systems from other manufacturers. These include:
- Reliable fastening . Before braces are installed on the patient’s teeth, their surface is covered with a special glass composition consisting of microscopic, visually indistinguishable balls. They improve the quality of adhesion of each bracket to the enamel.
- Absolute transparency. To ensure that the installed system is invisible on the teeth, many patients prefer to place it on the inside of the teeth. The transparency of sapphire braces allows them to be fixed on the vestibular surface, and they will be almost invisible on enamel of any shade.
- Use a special dye when installing . The transparency of the structure creates some inconvenience for the orthodontist - it is difficult for him to fix it exactly in the desired area. In order not to strain your eyes and to carry out the installation quickly and clearly, the doctor coats each group of braces with a special dye, which is easily washed off upon completion of installation.
- Removal device . It is not possible to simply remove the structure from the teeth due to its strong attachment to the surface. Therefore, the manufacturer additionally produces a device for their removal. These are special plastic pliers that are used to pick up each element so as not to damage the enamel.
- Smooth grooves. Each groove is polished to absolute smoothness. This treatment improves the distribution of the force impact of the arc, prevents its deformation, and reduces pain and discomfort during the adaptation period.
- Ball-shaped base . It improves the contact of braces with the teeth and prevents them from peeling off from the surface.
All of the listed features of braces influenced their demand and the number of advantages over similar designs from other manufacturers.
We will talk about the advantages and possible disadvantages of non-ligature braces in a special article. And here you can find out whether the T4A trainer is capable of correcting malocclusion.
Invisible and safe
If among all bracket systems there was a competition for the most inconspicuous design, then the products of the Inspire Ice series would have every chance of winning. All their elements are made of artificial sapphire, used specifically for medical purposes - a surprisingly transparent synthetic material. Despite the fact that the material is made from aluminum oxide, it is absolutely safe for humans and has almost all the characteristics of its natural counterpart. Artificial sapphire is hard and resistant to mechanical damage, and is also not susceptible to the effects of various dyes found in food and drinks.
The technical characteristics and reliability of artificial sapphire are so high that it is used in the manufacture of dental implants, windows for airplanes and ships, as well as chronometer glasses for submariners.
System advantages
Inspire Ice has the following advantages:
- High aesthetics - they are not noticeable on the teeth and completely blend with their shade.
- Prostate installation - the system itself is standard and the doctor does not require special skills to place it.
- Ideal execution - its production according to the jaw impression of a specific patient increases accuracy, quality and eliminates adjustment.
- Safety . The material itself is harmless to humans, and its impeccable processing does not cause an allergic reaction in the body and does not damage the mucous membranes and soft tissues.
- Immutability . Sapphire parts do not become cloudy over time and are not stained with food coloring.
- There are no traces of their presence. After their removal, no cracks or chips are found on the enamel surface, whereas after ceramic braces these defects are always present.
- Versatility - can be installed for patients of any age category.
- The minimal manifestation of pain symptoms during the period of getting used to them is achieved due to the uniform distribution of the load when wearing.
- High efficiency of bite correction . The use of computer technology in their production, manufacturing taking into account all the anatomical features of the patient’s jaw, provides a good and quick result in the correction of uncomplicated occlusion.
Advantages and disadvantages
Inspire Ice has the same characteristics (shape, size) as traditional products, so the doctor does not need to be retrained to install them.
There is the possibility of combined wearing of metal and sapphire systems.
The advantages of such braces are undeniable. They:
- Not pigmented. This means that they always remain transparent.
Compared to ceramic models, which have difficulty imitating the natural shade of teeth, the choice of Inspire Ice does not depend on the color of the enamel. They are able to reflect any light, due to which they remain invisible. - They have a smooth groove. Carefully polishing the grooves of each pad allows the arc to move more freely, distributing pressure evenly. This relieves the patient from pain and the arch itself from deformation.
- They do not leave marks on the enamel after removal.
- They do not injure teeth and gums due to the absence of sharp corners.
- Minimize pain symptoms by optimally distributing the amount of force load during use.
The disadvantage of the system is the high price, which can be reduced by using combined options.
Inspire Ice is a progressive orthodontic appliance. In terms of efficiency and aesthetic parameters, only lingual constructions come close to them.
You will also have to wear Inspire Ice for a long time - they correct the bite quite slowly .
Serious bite pathologies cannot be corrected with their help. But this is not required, because the products are positioned more as aesthetic designs .
Flaws
The only downside of these braces is their high cost. Taking into account the full course of treatment, the final price will not be affordable for every person. But their cost can be reduced slightly if you use the following combination option: install sapphire braces only on the upper frontal units.
Being a progressive orthodontic design, it cannot correct a strong bite defect. To do this, it is better to install other systems, since Inspire Ice is positioned mainly as a highly aesthetic model.
Sapphire ligature braces
The orthodontic term “ligature” is used by orthodontists to refer to one of the elements of the bracket system, namely the wire or ring with which the bracket is equipped. The entire system allows you to fix the structure, forcing the teeth into the correct position. The device has a limit of strength and resistance, so it requires periodic replacement. The color of the surface of the ligature can be chosen like ordinary metal, shades vary from complete transparency to decorative color options (especially interesting for children and teenagers).
Indications
Installation of sapphire braces is indicated only for minor tooth curvatures that require gentle correction. If there is a small malocclusion, the orthodontic structure is subject to special aesthetic requirements.
They are also recommended for those patients who have an allergy to a certain metal, since they themselves do not contain metal parts.
Sapphire non-ligature braces
Technologies have moved forward, and orthodontists can offer a ligature-free system, which can be used on both sapphire and other bracket systems made from other materials. This model cannot be recommended to everyone; it has important details. First of all, this is a high price compared to sapphire ligature braces, but it may require a long period of wearing for the patient. Artificial sapphires will give your smile a snow-white appearance, and the orthodontist will attach a lock to the plate of each brace.
Installation
The procedure is almost identical to the installation of any other brace systems of a classical design and is carried out in the following sequence:
- A panoramic image of the jaws is taken to assess the extent of the problem and develop a treatment plan.
- A photograph is also taken of the row of teeth on which the system is planned to be placed.
- The results obtained are sent to the laboratory where an impression is made.
- Then, based on it, braces are produced.
- The patient is treated for all diseases of the dentofacial apparatus identified during the examination, professional teeth cleaning is carried out to remove deposits, and if necessary, all units are treated with a composition that strengthens the enamel.
- Preparing teeth for installation of braces on them: each unit is treated with a special gel, after which they are washed with water and dried.
- A specific element of the system is placed on each unit.
- The fixed elements are connected by an arc, which is then fixed to the side units.
The entire procedure takes no more than 2 hours. After its completion, the doctor always explains to the patient the rules for caring for such a structure and determines the dates for subsequent appointments. On them, he evaluates the result of treatment and, if necessary, adjusts the position of the arch according to the changes that occur.
Installation and cost formation
Installation is carried out using glue fastening and Face Paint technology. It consists of using a water-soluble dye, applied during fixation and washed off after completion of the fixation procedure.
Main installation steps:
- visual examination, conducting research to assess the condition of the oral cavity, the degree of pathology and identify diseases;
- consultation with an orthodontist, during which the Patient learns about existing problems and pathologies and their cause;
- treatment of caries, elimination of other oral diseases;
- Carrying out office cleaning, removing plaque and stone;
- installation that does not take much time (fixing brackets with glue, installing an arch).
The cost of Inspire Ice is higher than other options, but lower than that of lingual appliances. The price is determined depending on the type of structure, the results of the diagnostics performed and the calculated treatment plan. The full cost will be announced by the doctor after drawing up the treatment plan. It is fixed in the contract and does not change throughout the entire period of treatment at Magenta Dental - from installation of the system to its removal
Main factors of cost formation:
- selected type of orthodontic appliance;
- condition of the oral cavity, the need for caries treatment, office cleaning;
- diagnostic methods used;
- installation of an orthodontic apparatus, its activation;
- frequency of doctor visits for correction of ligatures and arches;
- removal of the structure;
- production of retention devices.
Timing and effectiveness of treatment
Bite correction with Inspire Ice braces includes 3 stages:
- Adaptation .
With this system, this stage proceeds in a gentle manner with minimal pain. The main difficulties that most patients have to face are the development of discomfort from a foreign object in the mouth and short-term problems with pronunciation. At this time, it is important to limit or completely eliminate the intake of solid food and to take responsibility for hygiene procedures. After about 2 weeks, discomfort and pain will disappear, and diction will be restored. - The main course of treatment . During this period, a person gets used to braces and stops noticing them. But the exact duration of wearing them cannot be named - this is an individual period, which depends on the age of the patient, the complexity of the defect, and the speed of tooth displacement.
- The final stage , during which the doctor evaluates the effectiveness of the correction, removes the braces and, if necessary, recommends consolidating the treatment using additional devices (for example, retainers).
The entire course of bite correction takes about 2 years. You can speed it up by strictly following the recommendations and prescriptions of a specialist.
Duration of treatment and oral care rules
The duration of treatment with Inspire ICE braces is at least one year and primarily depends on the pathology of the bite and the degree of curvature of the teeth. Many patients admit that wearing clear braces, which look more like jewelry, is not at all difficult. But it is worth remembering that after the removal of the structures, you will have to wear retainers, mouth guards or splints for at least 2-3 years, which will allow you to consolidate the result.
Proper oral care is of no small importance in achieving the desired result. Treatment can last from 6 to 24 months, it all depends on the degree of complexity of the problem and a number of other factors, but unpleasant sensations and discomfort will appear at the initial stage in all patients.
- a special toothbrush with a V-shaped head;
- mouthwashes containing fluoride;
- brushes;
- dental floss;
- irrigators.
Any means should be used carefully, following the doctor’s recommendations, so as not to harm the oral cavity and the established system.
Care
Sapphire braces are more convenient to care for than other orthodontic structures. Dirt and deposits accumulated on them are immediately noticeable and are promptly removed by the user.
Caring for them comes down to following these simple rules:
- Daily cleaning of the entire structure with a special orthodontic brush.
- Competent diet planning. Despite their sufficient reliability, it is necessary to avoid eating rough and hard foods, as well as biting and chewing large pieces of food.
- Regular visits to the orthodontist. The specialist will monitor the progress of treatment and, if necessary, tighten the arch, adjust the position of the system in the mouth, and check its integrity.
Following these recommendations will make the correction progress unnoticeable and will not cause complications.
We have posted information about Incognito invisible braces, contraindications and indications for their use. And here it is written why wax is needed for braces.
At this address: https://dentist-pro.ru/ortodontiya/apparaty/brekety/skolko-vremeni-nuzhno-nosit.html we will guide you on how long it takes to wear braces to correct your bite.
About the manufacturer.
American is considered a leader in the production of quality orthodontic products. Their products can be recognized by their individual designs and wide range of staple types. They are popular among dentists and patients of all ages. In addition, the concern’s specialists are constantly improving technologies, actively developing this industry.
Treatment price
The final cost of correction with Inspire Ice braces consists of several factors:
- Diagnostics - when, in addition to examination, the dentist conducts a hardware examination of the dentofacial apparatus with the obligatory performance of x-rays of the jaw.
- Sanitation . Since braces are placed only on healthy teeth, before the procedure any existing diseases are necessarily treated, deposits are removed, and each unit is treated with fluoride.
- Dentist's work. He takes a cast, connects all the parts into one system, and makes adjustments.
- Cost of braces for both jaws.
- Arc cost.
- installations .
The approximate cost of all services provided during installation of the Inspire Ice system is summarized in this table:
Type of service | approximate cost |
Diagnostics | from 2 thousand rubles. |
Sanitation | from 8 thousand rubles. |
Dentist work | from 5 thousand rubles. |
Cost of braces | about 40 thousand rubles. |
Arc price | about 600 rub. |
Installation | about 16 thousand rubles. |
In addition to the listed procedures, you must pay separately for each subsequent visit after installation. The final price depends on the pricing policy of the clinic itself and the qualifications of the specialist.
The high price characteristics of sapphire structures are also due to the fact that they are the most progressive option for aesthetic orthodontics.
Manufacturing specifics
Transparent braces made from artificial sapphires Inspire Ice are of the traditional type and include: braces with locks, springs and ligatures.
The production technology of Inspire Ice correction systems is based on the most modern developments of scientists. The process of creating each model is as computerized as possible and focused on the characteristics of a particular patient. The doctor receives impressions of the patient’s teeth and sends them to the laboratory, where specialists, using unique software, process the data and create the most effective version of the device. In addition to a virtual picture of the future location of the patient’s teeth, the program provides the following data:
- Which incisors need alignment?
- In what order should you move your teeth?
- Where should braces be attached?
- What configuration of ligatures will be most effective.
- What shape of arc should you use?
- Estimated timing for replacing ligatures.
- Approximate total treatment period
An image with the planned treatment result is sent to the patient. If he is satisfied with the picture and the procedure, the production of individual Inspire Ice braces begins.
The manufacturing procedure is very similar to the work of jewelers - artificial sapphires are processed very carefully, because each of them needs to be given its own shape and size. At the request of the client or the recommendation of the orthodontist, each lock can be equipped with a silicone mouthguard for more precise installation of elements in place. The fastening arches and ligatures are coated with a coating that best matches the color of the patient’s enamel.
Combined bracket system - sapphire (transparent) and metal components
Ready-made braces are brought to the clinic where the installation is performed , and therefore the installation process itself is quick and easy. The orthodontist can secure each lock manually or fix the entire system using caps. Braces are installed on both jaws at once. Inspire Ice elements have the most rounded and comfortable shape, which helps patients quickly get used to the correctors in their mouth. The smooth material guarantees easy sliding of the braces along the arch, so the treatment process is quick and almost painless. The period of teeth alignment depends on many factors and can last from 1 to 2 years.
Analogs
Aesthetic orthodontic systems, in addition to Inspire Ice, also include other, no less popular, but inexpensive analogues:
- Plastic. Their price is much lower, but they are inferior in strength, are easily painted with food coloring, have less compatibility with teeth, and often chip and come off. Their approximate cost ranges from 6 to 9 thousand rubles.
- Ceramic ones are not subject to staining, have good adhesion to teeth, but have a shade that differs from the color of all teeth, and are inferior in strength and aesthetics to sapphire ones. Their average price is about 130 thousand rubles. (ligature version) and about 160 thousand rubles. (no ligature).
- "Damon Clear ". A model in which sapphire is placed only on the teeth in the smile zone, while standard metal ones are placed on the rest. They are expensive (about 100 thousand rubles), but they have better adhesion, are easily removed, and do not damage the enamel.
Each of the listed models effectively corrects the bite. But it is better to choose the right type of braces based on your financial capabilities.
Ceramic and sapphire braces
Sapphire braces are similar in many ways to ceramic braces. What are the similarities and differences?
Ceramic systems are divided into poly- and monocrystalline. The first type has a matte finish that imitates the surface of teeth, which has a good effect on aesthetic qualities. Therefore it is used more often. You can choose a shade that matches your tooth enamel. In addition, ceramics have higher strength.
In terms of hypoallergenicity and comfort when eating, ceramics and sapphires are almost identical. But sapphire braces have a lot of advantages compared to ceramic ones, which explains the higher price:
- almost no plaque accumulates on them;
- they are stain resistant.
But sapphire bracket systems have a light shade, so they are not suitable for those with yellow enamel. For patients who are concerned about appearance, the doctor recommends undergoing a whitening procedure in advance.
If we make a comparison with metal braces, then metal braces allow you to achieve an orthodontic effect faster, since ceramics and sapphire have a rather soft effect. It is preferable to install them in case of minor orthodontic deficiencies.
The doctor makes a difficult choice in favor of one brace system or another after studying various factors. This issue is discussed with the patient, because the treatment period takes months and even years.
Sapphire Inspire Ice braces
Let's look at ceramic and sapphire bracket systems from different manufacturers. In our orthodontic practice, we use American and South Korean products. The second option is more affordable for our clients.
Sapphire Inspire Ice braces. Their manufacturer, the American company Ormko, uses innovative technologies and modern hypoallergenic materials. As you know, the cult of beautiful white teeth flourishes in America, so the corporation’s products are in great demand. American systems have spread throughout the world. Orthodontists value them for their high quality. Doctors of the original dentistry “Academy Dent” (Moscow) undergo training and internships abroad, so they buy only the best for their patients.
Arcs play a vital role in the alignment process. In the Inspire Ice sapphire bracket system, the arches are made of titanium and nickel alloy - it does not irritate the mucous membranes, and the arch system itself looks thinner and more elegant. Braces are produced using computer technology, allowing you to create an individual design for each patient and guarantee the expected effect of treatment.
Sapphire braces Radiance
The manufacturer of Radiance braces, American Orthodontics Corporation, specializes in orthodontic structures and has a significant share of this market. Radiance ceramic and sapphire braces have special characteristics.
Ideal aesthetic properties are ensured through careful polishing.
Low risk of injury due to the absence of sharp tips.
The metal insert in the lock reduces the friction that the arc creates in the groove, therefore facilitating faster treatment.
A distinctive feature of Radiance braces is their quad-matte base, which is smooth around the edges and mesh in the center. It received a patent in the field of orthodontic structures, since all the force is fixed in the central part of the lock. As a result, the braces are attached more securely, and after the end of the treatment period they are removed from the enamel without causing harm to it.
Sapphire braces: Miso products
The Miso line produced by HT Corporation (South Korea) includes ligature types of braces. Important characteristics of this product:
- There are 3 size options - large, compact, miniature;
- due to the absence of metal elements, the system does not cause allergic reactions;
- special heat treatment used in production strengthens sapphires, and they become resistant to abrasion, mechanical stress and staining;
- The base of the staples has an RMM surface with a mesh structure, so it is possible to fix it with a large amount of glue and increase the strength of the fastening.
Sapphire braces Pure
American Pure braces are a ligature type of braces. The OrthoTechnology company produces not only braces, but also components for orthodontics: consumables and instruments. Thanks to close contact with leading American orthodontists, the company is improving bracket systems, taking into account the shortcomings of previous models.
Pure braces have the following characteristics.
- The anatomical base of the braces is made in the form of a rectangle and coated with zirconium dioxide.
- The heterogeneous structure of the base allows sapphires to be more securely fixed to tooth enamel, and then safely removed after treatment.
- The pressure to move the teeth is provided by an arch fixed in a rectangular slot. The reduction in friction is due to the processing of the groove using a diamond bur.
- The brackets are color coded, allowing for more precise positioning in the mouth.
Manufacturing technology
Inspire Ice devices are unique, unparalleled sapphire products. Experts say that it is unlikely that there will be braces that will be as invisible in the oral cavity as the models of this company.
This effect can only be achieved using the latest modern developments. Production technology is classified as complex. It consists of the following stages:
- Artificial growth of stone by melting aluminum oxide into a mass having a monocrystalline consistency. This component, ideally similar to natural stone, will become the basis of the future frame of the system.
- The size of the resulting crystal can vary from several centimeters to a meter. The resulting workpiece is cut into small bars, which are fired at high temperatures. The process lasts several days.
- The components of future braces are made from hardened sapphire fragments. It is the procedure described above that ensures the strength of the model and the resistance of its surface to damage and chips, which very often deteriorate ceramic devices.
Technology of braces systems
This system has a rather complex manufacturing technology.
Its essence is as follows:
- obtaining sapphire, it is made from a special mass, which is obtained by melting aluminum oxide. This crystal can have different sizes: from 10 cm to 1 m;
- depending on the direction of the axes, bars are cut, which will then be used to make braces;
- firing of the resulting bars followed by heat treatment (carried out in order to protect the structure from future fractures).
Price
The average cost is as follows:
- the price of the service for two jaws is 90–95 thousand rubles;
- the same, without implantation – 140–150 thousand;
- the price of the product for 2 jaws is about 40,000 rubles;
- minor repairs during use 1.5–2 thousand;
- the cost of 1 arc is 600–650 rubles.
The approximate price of turnkey treatment will be in the range of 270–280 thousand rubles. for the entire jaw row. As a rule, payment is provided in installments (except for the price for the structure itself).