There are several things to consider when deciding on getting braces. One of those things is if you want ceramic or metal.
Both types of braces are able to straighten your teeth and help fix bite issues. By placing brackets on your teeth and a wire they allow your teeth to move into more ideal positions.
They differ in their appearance.
Metal braces will have metal brackets that you can easily see on your teeth. Ceramic braces have brackets that are either clear or the colour of your teeth. This allows for a less visible appearance which many patients enjoy when wanting to get braces.
There are also other factors that ceramic and metal braces may differ in.
Durability, price and maintenance are just a few. Depending on what orthodontic issue you may have one type of brace could work better than the other.
Here are some pros and cons of both.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are what most people think of when they think of getting braces.
Brackets made from stainless steel are placed on the front of your teeth. A wire is then placed through these brackets to help move your teeth.
This allows your teeth to move into the correct position.
Metal braces have been around for years and can treat almost any orthodontic issue.
Some of these include:
- Teeth being too crowded
- Gaps between teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
Many other issues can be treated with metal braces.
It all depends on your needs.
What Are Ceramic Braces?
They work just like normal metal braces.
However they just have different bracket colours.
Rather than being stainless steel brackets ceramic brackets are a clear or tooth coloured bracket that match your teeth colour.
There can also be clear or light coloured elastics or wires that can help camouflage ceramic braces even more.
Like all fixed braces they are attached to your teeth and will need to be adjusted throughout your braces journey.
Due to them being a more discreet option many adults and teens will choose ceramic braces over metal braces.
Ceramic Braces vs Metal Braces
Although both options will work for your teeth there are some things you should know about the differences.
Aesthetic
Most patients will choose ceramic braces because they want something that isn’t as obvious as metal braces.
As we mentioned before metal braces will show when you smile or talk.
Whereas with ceramic braces they can blend into your teeth colour and are not as obvious.
If you have an adult job or are a teen and don’t want people to notice you’re wearing braces this could be for you.
Metal braces have gained popularity in recent years so if you dont mind having metal braces then its not an issue.
It’s all up to you what you feel comfortable with.
Pros Of Ceramic Braces
They’re not as obvious
Since the brackets can blend into your teeth they’re less obvious than metal braces.
As stated above ceramic braces can be less noticeable than metal braces but they are not clear.
So if you want braces that aren’t obvious but still want the benefits of having fixed braces. Ceramic braces may be for you.
Similar To Normal Braces
As mentioned above, ceramic braces still consist of brackets and wires.
So you get the advantage of having a permanent orthodontic device on your teeth.
Since the braces are always on your teeth you don’t have to remember to wear clear aligners during the day.
Can Be an Option for Adults
Many adults don’t choose to get braces because they don’t want to have metal braces on their teeth.
By getting ceramic braces you have the option to get your braces done if you’re worried about others seeing you with braces on.
Can Be Left On While You Eat
Just like metal braces you will not have to take your braces off while you eat.
There is no risk of losing your clear aligners or forgetting to put them back on.
Downsides to Ceramic Braces
Brackets Are More Likely to Break
Metal brackets are very tough and durable.
Although ceramic brackets are built to last through orthodontic treatment they can be more likely to break than metal brackets.
So just be careful not to chip or break your ceramic brackets.
Make sure to ask your dentist what types of food you shouldn’t eat with braces.
May Cost More Money
In some cases ceramic braces will cost more than normal metal braces.
It all depends on the material that is used and the type of braces that you choose.
The price you’ll pay for orthodontic treatment will depend on your specific situation.
May Need to Be Kept Cleaner
While your brackets will stay almost invisible some of the bands and elastics can change colors.
If you consume foods or drinks that can cause discoloration they may show on your braces.
Just keep your mouth clean and follow your dentist’s advice to keep your braces looking nice.
Ceramic Material Is Very Hard
As stated above ceramic brackets can be harder than tooth enamel.
So when an orthodontist is placing ceramic brackets they have to think about if they will come in contact with your opposing teeth.
Studies have found that ceramic brackets can cause more wear on your teeth than stainless steel brackets if they are constantly hitting your opposing teeth.
Which can be a reason why ceramic braces may not be best for you.
Pros of Metal Braces
Metal Braces Are Strong
Strength is one of the pros to having metal braces.
The brackets on your teeth can withstand the amount of force needed to straighten your teeth. They will also be less likely to break than ceramic brackets.
So if you have young children or are very active metal braces may be a good option for you.
Metal Braces Can Correct Many Types of Problems
There are many types of problems that metal braces can fix.
By changing your wires your orthodontist can control the way your teeth move.
In some cases your orthodontist may recommend metal braces over ceramic braces.
Metal Braces May Be Cheaper
Another benefit of having metal braces is they can be cheaper than ceramic braces.
It will depend on the office you go to and what type of treatment you need but metal braces can be cheaper.
If price is a concern then you may want to consider metal braces.
You Can Choose Different Colors of Elastics
This may not appeal to everyone but kids love having colored elastics.
Every time you go in for your adjustment you can pick new colors for your braces.
Cons of Metal Braces
More Visible
Obviously when you have metal braces people are going to notice.
Your brackets and wires will show when you talk and smile.
Some people dont mind having metal braces and others may not.
Avoid Certain Foods
Similar to ceramic braces you will have to avoid certain foods when you have metal braces.
Foods that are hard, sticky or extremely crunchy can break your braces.
You will have to change some of your eating habits when you have braces.
May Take Longer to Clean
Since you have brackets and wires on your teeth it will take longer to brush and floss your teeth.
Food will get stuck in your brackets and wires so you will have to spend more time brushing.
The same goes for ceramic braces.
Are Ceramic Braces More Comfortable?
Not always.
Whether you have ceramic or metal braces you will feel some discomfort.
When your braces are first put on or after an adjustment you will feel sore.
You may find that ceramic braces are more comfortable for you or you may find that metal braces are.
There is no way to know if your braces will be pain free or not.
Do Ceramic Braces Straighten Teeth as Fast as Metal Braces?
Yes ceramic braces can be just as effective as metal braces.
They both have brackets and wires that will help straighten your teeth.
Depending on your case you may want to consider getting metal braces.
It all depends on what type of work you need done on your teeth.
Do they take longer?
Not necessarily.
There are many factors that can determine how long you will be in braces.
Some of these factors include:
- Amount of crowding
- Type of malocclusion
- How much movement the teeth need to occur
- Brackets breaking
- Patient compliance
- Treatment plan
Your dentist will be able to estimate how long you will be wearing braces once they evaluate your teeth.
Will my braces stain?
While your ceramic brackets will stay the same colour. The rubber bands (elastics) can stain if you wear clear ones.
Staining from food and drinks can come from:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Wine
- Sauces
- Foods with strong dyes
You do not have to eliminate all of these from your diet.
Just remember to brush your teeth properly and keep your orthodontic appointments to ensure your braces stay clean.
Do Ceramic Braces take longer to clean?
Similar to metal braces you will have to brush and floss your teeth with extra caution.
As food will build up around your brackets and under your wires.
Make sure you brush around all brackets and clean between your teeth daily.
Your dentist may recommend additional products to help you clean around your braces.
It’s important to keep your mouth clean whether you have metal or ceramic braces. Build up around your brackets can cause cavities and gum disease.
Ceramic Braces and Metal Braces for Adults
Many adults choose to wear ceramic braces because they want their braces to be less visible.
They offer the same benefits as traditional metal braces just less visible.
Metal braces are also a great option for adults.
If you have a more complex bite issue. Or you may break your brackets more easily or don’t mind the look of metal braces then metal may be the better option for you.
Its not based on age that you should choose one over the other.
Ceramic Braces and Metal Braces for Teenagers
Teenagers can benefit from both types of braces.
Metal braces are sturdy and can come in fun colours. Which teenagers love!
Ceramic braces may be better if they want to hide their braces a bit more.
As ceramic braces require more maintenance your dentist may take this into consideration.
What about Invisalign?
Another question we get asked is about Invisalign.
Invisalign does not have any brackets or wires.
They are a set of clear aligners that you wear and change out over the course of treatment.
We already cover Invisalign on our Milton Dental Hub if you would like more information on clear aligners.
If you want to wear braces and want them to be less visible ceramic braces may be right for you.
What Are Easier To Keep Up With?
Both of these options require maintenance.
You will need to:
- Make sure you are brushing around your braces
- Make sure you are cleaning between your teeth
- Stay away from certain foods
- Come in for your adjustments
- Keep up with your care instructions
If you want your braces to be less visible you may have to keep up with ceramic braces more.
Metal brackets may last longer.
So Which Should I Get?
It really depends on your situation.
Ceramic braces may be a good option for you if you:
- Want braces that are less visible
- Are worried about the aesthetic of your braces
- Would rather have fixed braces instead of clear aligners
- Have an orthodontic issue that can be corrected with ceramic braces
- Will be able to take care of your ceramic braces
Metal braces may be a good option for you if you:
- Want braces that will last
- Have a bigger orthodontic issue
- Dont mind having metal braces on your teeth
- Want an affordable option
- Want traditional braces
When deciding between the two it really comes down to what you need for your teeth.
Ceramic Braces Vs Metal Braces FAQ
Are Ceramic Braces Better Than Metal Braces?
Its hard to say.
Ceramic braces are more clear while metal braces are more durable.
Both can be used to correct many different orthodontic issues.
Do Ceramic Braces Cost More?
Yes they can.
Because they are made out of a different material they can be more expensive. But it all depends on the severity of your orthodontic issue and how long your treatment will take.
Will Ceramic Braces Break?
Since ceramic is more fragile than stainless steel it can break.
There are some things to keep in mind when you have ceramic braces.
Can Adults Wear Metal Braces?
Of course.
Many people who get metal braces are adults.
It just depends on your teeth and what you need.
Are Ceramic Braces Invisible?
No.
They are more clear than metal but you can still see the brackets and wires.
They are not clear aligners.
Do Metal Braces Move Your Teeth Faster?
There is no way to tell.
It depends on your orthodontic issue and what kind of treatment you will need.
Your dentist will be able to tell you after looking at your teeth.
Ceramic And Metal Braces In Milton
There are pros and cons to each of these options.
If you want braces that are more clear but want to keep fixed braces on your teeth then ceramic braces are a good option.
Metal braces are very strong and durable. They can also be used on many orthodontic issues.
It all comes down to your teeth and what you need. If you want to learn more about getting braces in Milton come and see our team of dentists at Milton Dental Hub. We can look at your teeth and tell you if you need braces.
