Ceramic Braces vs. Metal Braces

Ceramic Braces vs. Metal Braces from FitSmiles Orthodontics in Tustin, CACeramic 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.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontist in Tustin, CA

We can straighten your smile

Metal braces and ceramic braces accomplish the same thing: improving the alignment of your teeth. Are you ready for properly aligned teeth? Give us a call or stop by our Tustin clinic to set up an appointment with our orthodontist.

Request an appointment or call FitSmiles Orthodontics at 714-782-0217 for an appointment in our Tustin office.

Related Posts

Post-Orthodontic Care Options: Retainers

Maintaining the position of the teeth after orthodontic treatment requires the use of dental retainers. Read on to learn about the different types of retainers available. As soon as the braces or aligners come off, your teeth will begin repositioning themselves to where they were before treatment. To avoid relapse, you should use retainers. They…

How Long An Orthodontic Retainer May Last

When you finish orthodontic treatment, you will get a retainer. This appliance is vital in your treatment, as it will help to keep your teeth straight. A lot of work goes into straightening your teeth and aligning your jaw properly. You cannot afford to undo those efforts by neglecting to wear this device as your…

Overview Of Clear Aligner Orthodontic Therapy

Clear aligner orthodontic therapy is a way to address a range of tooth and jaw misalignments, including but not limited to crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and more. This review focuses on clear aligner therapy and the benefits it can provide for patients.Clear aligner treatment is a simple and convenient way…