Not everyone is born with perfectly straight teeth or a healthy bite. In some cases, people may have to go through a few months or even years of wearing braces to get the smile they want.
The world of orthodontics presents many solutions to straighten teeth, but two types of procedures, in particular, may seem confusing to some patients: traditional metal braces and ceramic braces.
Are they the same thing? What type of results can each of them give you? Find out everything you need to know about ceramic and metal braces in this short blog post!
Metal Braces 101
Metal braces are a popular type of orthodontic treatment made from high-quality stainless steel. They are commonly used to address a large variety of orthodontic concerns both when it comes to tooth alignment, bite health, and the jaw.
Traditional metal braces are rather affordable when compared to other solutions like ceramic braces or clear aligners. Moreover, since they are non-corrosive, patients can follow the full extent of their treatment with their original pair. The orthodontist will only need to pull on the wires to help the teeth follow the correct path and improve their position.
But, one of the biggest drawbacks of traditional metal braces is that they are quite visible. Many people may feel a bit self-conscious, especially in the beginning, as they are not used to their braces yet. Moreover, they also require a bit of maintenance, such as proper oral health to remove traces of food that may get stuck in between the braces.
Ceramic Braces 101
Ceramic braces offer a more discreet treatment path. They are made from clear or tooth-colored materials, and the principle is virtually the same as with metal braces: wires are pulled tighter in order to help the teeth reposition.
Ceramic braces are also less likely to cause irritation on the gums, so they may be more comfortable than metal braces. However, the materials are not as durable and can sometimes break, in which case you’ll need to replace this. This can be an issue also because ceramic braces are a bit more expensive than metal ones.
Moreover, the treatment length can be longer with ceramic braces.
Which One Should You Choose?
Metal and ceramic braces work virtually the same, so in general, deciding between the two will come down to personal preferences:
- Visibility – If you want something more discreet, ceramic braces can offer it;
- Cost – If you’re on a budget, metal braces may be the better option;
- Treatment length – Ceramic braces are a bit more fragile so they cannot be tightened to the same extent as metal braces. This can cause longer treatment periods
But the best way to know for sure which one is right for you is to discuss your options with Cedar Park dentist Dr. David Hsu.
Book a braces consultation at Whitestone Family Dentistry today!
