CERAMIC TREATMENT / CERAMIC ORTHODONTICS

Ceramic Treatment / Ceramic Orthodontics

A treatment that comprehensively adjusts tooth alignment, bite and tooth whiteness using ceramic prosthetic restorations.

ABOUTWhat is ceramic orthodontics?

Ceramic orthodontics is a different treatment from wire braces or aligner treatment.

Whereas wire braces and aligner treatment move the teeth little by little using the force of an appliance, ceramic orthodonticsreshapes the teeth by trimming them and fits ceramic restorations (crowns) over them, a prosthetic treatment that adjusts tooth alignment, tooth shape and colour tone. It is not a treatment that moves the position of the teeth themselves.

As an alternative to wire or aligner orthodontics, we offer ceramic treatment that also considers the bite. We holistically refine alignment, bite and whiteness, and in some cases treatment may be completed in a relatively short period (around 1–2 months).

We present it as one option for those concerned about gaps between the front teeth (midline diastema, gapped teeth), unevenness in the shape or colour of the teeth, or mild irregularity of tooth alignment.

Differences from other orthodontic methods

Treatment methodHow it worksCharacteristics
Ceramic orthodontics The teeth are trimmed and ceramic restorations are used to adjust shape, colour and alignment The colour and shape of the teeth can be adjusted at the same time. Depending on the case, treatment may be possible in a comparatively short period (approximately 1–2 months). Trimming of the teeth is required
Wire braces The teeth are moved with brackets and wire The entire dental arch can be moved without trimming the teeth. The appliance may be noticeable
Clear aligner orthodontics Teeth are moved by changing clear aligners in stages The appliance is less noticeable. Wear time must be managed.

The treatment period varies depending on the method. Which method is suitable depends on the condition of your mouth, so please consult us first.

Alternative treatment options

Because ceramic orthodontics involves reducing the teeth, at our clinic we also explain the following options and decide the treatment plan according to the patient's wishes and the condition of the mouth.

  • Wire orthodontics (treatment that moves the dentition without reducing the teeth)
  • Clear aligner orthodontics (treatment that moves the dentition with a less noticeable appliance)
  • Monitoring (the option of not treating immediately and checking the condition periodically)

FLOWTreatment flow

  1. Counseling / Examination

    We listen to your concerns and wishes and carry out an intraoral examination and diagnosis. We explain whether ceramic orthodontics is suitable, including other orthodontic methods.

  2. Proposal of a treatment plan

    We present the scope of treatment, the number of teeth, the cost, and an estimate of the period. The Duration / Visits vary depending on the condition of your mouth.

  3. Tooth preparation / fitting of the provisional tooth

    Under anesthesia, the tooth is reduced and an impression is taken. A provisional tooth is fitted during treatment, so you can go about your daily life without a major change in appearance.

  4. Fitting of the ceramic

    The completed ceramic restoration is fitted, and the bite is checked and adjusted.

  5. Maintenance

    To keep the restoration in good condition for a long time, we provide guidance on regular Maintenance.

CASESCeramic Treatment Cases

* Photos are published with the patient's consent.

CASE 01Ceramic treatment of 10 upper teeth, up to the 5th from the front, that are visible when smiling

Case 01 intraoral photograph after treatment
Case 01 intraoral photograph before treatment
Before treatmentAfter treatment
Chief Complaint
A case in which the patient, after also considering long-term orthodontic treatment, wished for aesthetic improvement in a short period.
Treatment
Restoration of the shape and shade of the front teeth with all-ceramic crowns (ceramic treatment).
Duration / Visits
Approx. 1–2 months, 4–5 visits (approximate).
Cost (excl. tax)
Ceramic 1 tooth ¥130,000 × 10 teeth.
Main Risks & Side Effects
Tooth preparation may cause sensitivity, and breakage or detachment of restorations and changes in gum condition may occur.
In cases involving major changes to the tooth axis (alignment), root canal treatment (removal of the nerve) may be required depending on the condition of the tooth.

CASE 02Ceramic treatment of 20 upper and lower teeth involving alignment, discoloration and caries

Case 02 intraoral photograph after treatment
Case 02 intraoral photograph before treatment
Before treatmentAfter treatment
Chief Complaint
A case in which, after comparison with long-term orthodontic treatment, the patient wished for comprehensive improvement in a short period.
Treatment
Ceramic treatment combined with periodontal care (Premium Cleaning) to address alignment, discoloration and gum condition.
Duration / Visits
Approx. 2 months, 8 visits (estimate).
Cost (excl. tax)
Ceramic 1 tooth ¥130,000 × 20 teeth.
Main Risks & Side Effects
Tooth preparation may cause sensitivity, and breakage or detachment of restorations and changes in gum condition may occur.
In cases involving major changes to the tooth axis (alignment), root canal treatment (removal of the nerve) may be required depending on the condition of the tooth.

* The "after" photo mainly shows the area visible when smiling (upper jaw).

CASE 03Ceramic treatment of 16 upper and lower teeth involving alignment, discoloration and caries

Case 03 intraoral photograph after treatment
Case 03 intraoral photograph before treatment
Before treatmentAfter treatment
Chief Complaint
A case in which the patient was concerned about changes in appearance caused by cavities in the front teeth and wished to regain a natural smile.
Treatment
Treatment comprehensively restoring 16 upper and lower teeth, including alignment, discoloration and cavities, with all-ceramic while also taking the bite into account.
Duration / Visits
Approx. 2 months, 8 visits (estimate).
Cost (excl. tax)
Ceramic 1 tooth ¥130,000 × 16 teeth.
Main Risks & Side Effects
Tooth preparation may cause sensitivity, and breakage or detachment of restorations and changes in gum condition may occur.
In cases involving major changes to the tooth axis (alignment), root canal treatment (removal of the nerve) may be required depending on the condition of the tooth.

CASE 04Ceramic treatment for a midline diastema (gapped front teeth)

Case 04 intraoral photograph after treatment
Case 04 intraoral photograph before treatment
Before treatmentAfter treatment
Chief Complaint
A case in which the patient wished to close the gap between the front teeth in a short period.
Treatment
Closure of the front-tooth gap and restoration of tooth shape with all-ceramic crowns.
Duration / Visits
Approx. 3 weeks, 3 visits (estimate).
Cost (excl. tax)
Ceramic 1 tooth ¥130,000 × 2 teeth.
Main Risks & Side Effects
Tooth preparation may cause sensitivity, and breakage or detachment of restorations and changes in gum condition may occur.
In cases involving major changes to the tooth axis (alignment), root canal treatment (removal of the nerve) may be required depending on the condition of the tooth.

Main risks and side effects common to the ceramic treatment cases above

Tooth preparation may cause sensitivity, and breakage or detachment of restorations and changes in gum condition may occur.
In cases involving major changes to the tooth axis (alignment), root canal treatment (removal of the nerve) may be required depending on the condition of the tooth.

* All of the above are self-pay (non-insured) treatments. Period, number of visits and cost vary by oral condition. Results vary by individual and are not guaranteed for everyone. Photos are published with patient consent.

PRICEPricing (self-pay treatment)

Ceramic treatment and ceramic orthodontics are self-pay treatments.

Premium Ceramic (front teeth)¥130,000
Premium Zirconia (molars)¥130,000
Ceramic Inlay¥30,000〜¥50,000
Provisional Tooth¥10,000
Fiber Core¥20,000

* Prices shown exclude tax (tax added separately).
* The number of teeth requiring treatment and the procedures involved vary depending on the condition of your mouth. Please ask for details when booking or at your visit.

FAQFAQ

Does ceramic orthodontics hurt?
We administer anesthesia and aim to provide treatment with consideration for pain. The way pain is felt differs from person to person. Please discuss any concerns with us before treatment.
How does ceramic orthodontics differ from wire orthodontics?
Wire braces and clear aligner treatment move the teeth using the force of an appliance. Ceramic "orthodontics," on the other hand, is a prosthetic treatment in which the teeth are reduced and ceramic crowns are placed to adjust the shape, color and alignment of the teeth. Because tooth reduction is required, we explain the alternatives as well (wire braces, clear aligner treatment, or monitoring without treatment) before discussing a treatment plan with you.
Can a gap between the front teeth (midline diastema) also be treated with ceramics?
We provide treatment that closes gaps between the front teeth with ceramic crowns. Please see our cases page for an example of gapped-teeth treatment (Case 04). Whether this treatment is suitable depends on the condition of your mouth.
How long does treatment take?
Depending on the case, treatment may be possible in a relatively short period (around 1–2 months). The duration and number of visits vary with the condition of your mouth, so we will give you an estimate after the examination.
Can insurance be used?
Ceramic treatment and ceramic "orthodontics" are not covered by insurance. Our clinic offers both non-insured and insured treatment, and you are welcome to discuss what is possible within the scope of insured treatment.
I am concerned about having my teeth reduced.
Because ceramic "orthodontics" involves reducing the teeth, it may cause tooth sensitivity, and in some cases pulp removal (root canal treatment of the nerve) may become necessary. We will also explain options that do not involve reducing the teeth (wire braces, clear aligner treatment, or monitoring without treatment), so please start by discussing your situation at a counseling session.

RESERVEAppointments & Consultations

369CLINIC operates on an appointment-preferred basis.
Appointments are accepted through our booking site.

For those with questions before booking

For questions about treatment or costs, please feel free to contact us via LINE.

When contacting us, please include the following details
  • Name
  • Treatment you would like (e.g. cleaning / bite / whitening silver fillings / concerns about bad breath)
  • Whether you prefer insured or non-insured treatment (if undecided, "undecided" is fine)
Consult via LINE

Dates and times are confirmed through the booking site.
After consulting via LINE, please make your reservation through the booking site (yoyaku.369.dental).