Ceramic Braces vs. Metal Braces

Ceramic braces are a less-noticeable alternative to metal braces. Similar to metal braces, ceramic braces are made up of two main components: wires and brackets. The brackets are glued to each of the patient’s teeth, while the wires connect the brackets on each dental arch. The wires are used to control how much force the appliance exerts on the patient’s teeth. The tighter they are, the more force the appliance exerts. The braces work by applying constant force on teeth, gently moving them to new positions over time.

Metal braces have been used to straighten teeth for over a century, and they remain the most effective way to improve teeth alignment. However, these appliances affect the patient’s smile, so many people avoid getting the teeth straightening treatments that they need.

Ceramic braces were developed to create a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to metal braces. Instead of metal wires and brackets, these devices come with tooth-colored brackets and wires. Orthodontic issues that can be fixed by metal or ceramic braces include:

• Crooked teeth
• Crossbites
• Underbites
• Overbites
• Spaces between teeth
• A bad bite

Comparing metal and ceramic braces

Let us look at these two types of braces to better understand their similarities and differences.

1. Metal braces

These braces are one of the oldest ways to straighten teeth, and they are still recommended for the most severe dental issues. The metal components of these devices make them more durable than many other appliances used to straighten teeth.

Metal braces have evolved since they were invented. Nowadays, these appliances have sleek designs that can be customized to suit a patient’s tastes. However, metal braces remain one of the most noticeable appliances used to straighten teeth. Anyone who interacts with someone who has metal braces will notice the appliance.

2. Ceramic braces

These devices can be used to treat many of the same issues that metal braces can, but they are not as durable. The tooth-colored components used to create these appliances are not as tough as the metal components used to make metal braces.

Orthodontists typically recommend metal braces for patients who need extensive treatments because they are less likely to become damaged during the course of the patient’s treatment. The main advantage ceramic braces have over metal braces is their improved aesthetics. The tooth-colored components make them difficult to notice. These devices require more cleaning than metal braces because discoloration of the tooth-colored components makes the appliance more noticeable.