Traditional metal braces are no longer the only option available if you are looking to straighten your teeth. With today’s advanced dental and orthodontic technology, patients have several new options that allow them to straighten their teeth discreetly. Clear ceramic braces and clear aligners are two of the newest options available. Every option has its advantages, and understanding each option can help you make the best choice for you. Below, we have broken down both types of braces and the factors you should consider so you can make the right choice for your teeth.
How Do Clear Braces Work?
Clear braces are dental appliances also known as ceramic braces, and they function the same way as traditional metal braces. Instead of being made from metal, they are made from tooth colored or transparent ceramic materials. These ceramic materials are bonded to the front of your teeth, and a wire is used to connect each one to gradually shift your teeth. Just like traditional metal braces, dentists will tighten and manipulate the wires to reposition your teeth slowly over time until your desired smile is achieved. Clear braces have been becoming more popular over the years because the ceramic materials blend in with your teeth and help you achieve straighter teeth while being discreet.
What Are Traditional Metal Braces?
Traditional braces are the most well-known method for straightening teeth. They are made from high-grade stainless steel and work the same way as clear braces. Metal brackets are also applied to the front of your teeth, and a wire is manipulated to gradually reposition your teeth. Metal braces have been used in orthodontics for decades, and they are known for their strength and effectiveness.
The Best Option For Mild Orthodontic Issues
For mild dental and orthodontic issues, clear braces work just as well as metal ones, and both are great options to straighten your teeth. They both hold the same teeth-straightening power and are a great option if you have any crooked teeth, crowding, or small gaps. Both brace options will be effective in delivering the smile that you want.
The Best Option For Complex Orthodontic Issues
If your teeth and bite have more complex needs, metal braces may be a better choice for you. Since metal braces are made of stainless steel materials, the brackets can withstand stronger forces and can help your orthodontist reach a more precise adjustment. If you have severe crowding, any jaw issues, or your bite is majorly misaligned, orthodontists typically will suggest using metal braces for your treatment. Clear braces may be able to be used in some of these cases, but they do not have the same effectiveness. Treatment can take longer and will require more care to keep them in good condition.
Treatment Duration
Treatment duration for both options depends on the complexity of your dental adjustment. It is important to note that clear braces can increase treatment time due to the brittleness of the ceramic material. The materials’ clear braces are made from and require a more gentle and slower adjustment. It may break if it is put under too much pressure. Metal braces use stainless steel, which is stronger and can withstand more pressure. These materials allow orthodontists the ability to make more aggressive movements in their alignments. Being able to make tighter alignments can mean that treatment time can be shorter. If you are looking for the options that will allow you to wear braces for the shortest amount of time, metal braces may be the best option for you.
Differences In Aesthetics
One of the biggest reasons clear braces are such a popular option is their discreet appearance. The clear bracket used is made of ceramic materials that are made to match your teeth. The use of these brackets makes it a less noticeable alternative compared to the metal brackets that come with conventional braces. This is the perfect solution for teens or adults who may be self-conscious about wearing braces and want an option that will blend in with their teeth.
Difference In Maintenance Between Metal And Clear Braces
As stated above, metal braces are more durable than clear braces. The ceramic used in clear braces can chip and crack if it is put under too much stress. Additionally, clear braces can stain when you consume certain foods or drinks. If you drink coffee, tea, or red wine regularly, you may want to consider using metal braces for your treatment. Traditional metal braces made of steel will not break under pressure and do not stain.
Regardless of whether you proceed with clear or metal braces, proper care is essential to keeping your treatment plan on track and your oral health in check. There are some key differences to keep in mind when you are thinking about cleaning and maintaining your braces.
Properly Caring For Clear Braces
When you have clear braces, it is important to use a soft-bristle toothbrush when brushing your teeth. This type of toothbrush can help you keep the ceramic brackets protected from cracking. In addition to a soft toothbrush, we also recommend using a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride toothpaste will gently clean around the brackets and help prevent staining. Brushing after meals can help prevent discoloration and keep your ceramic brackets from standing out. Using a water flosser can also help you reach any hard-to-clean areas. All of these tools will help you keep your teeth clean.
Properly Caring For Metal Braces
Since traditional braces are stronger and more sturdy, they can handle more pressure than clear braces. It is still important to brush multiple times a day to prevent plaque buildup, just like clear braces, but you can use any toothbrush and toothpaste you like. We also recommend using a water flosser with metal braces to help reach any hard-to-clear areas.
While both options can help fix and align your teeth, there are some key differences that you should consider. Proper care is important for each option, and it can play a huge role in the length of your treatment plan. Your orthodontist may request more visits if you have clear braces. This will allow your orthodontist to check on the durability of the brackets and make minor adjustments more frequently. Regular orthodontist visits are still needed for traditional braces, but your orthodontist will be able to make more aggressive movements due to the metal’s durability, which can help cut down the number of adjustments needed for your plan.
Differences In Cost
Clear braces are usually slightly more expensive than traditional braces. The materials needed for clear braces and the extra care needed are the main reasons for the higher cost. Most of our patients’ insurance covers part of the costs for either option, but it is important to ask questions and get an estimate to make sure you understand the total cost of each option.
Choosing The Most Effective Option For You
Choosing the right option depends on your lifestyle, orthodontic needs, and cost. If your goal is to be discreet and you are okay with your treatment plan possibly taking a little longer, clear braces may be the best option for you. If your teeth and bite need a lot of attention or you are looking for a faster and more effective option, we recommend that you learn more about traditional braces.
Call Hutta & Price Orthodontics Today To Learn More About Metal And Clear Braces
Understanding the differences between both metal and clear braces can help make your decision a little easier. Each orthodontist on our team has the experience needed to help our patients achieve the smile they have been waiting for. If you have any questions or are looking for a recommendation, our team can help find a plan that will be most effective for you and your lifestyle. Contact Hutta & Price Orthodontics to make an appointment to learn more about braces or clear aligners today. Patient satisfaction is what we strive for, and our orthodontists are here to deliver effective results.