Metal Braces vs Ceramic Braces

If you have misaligned teeth or are dealing with a bite or jaw issue, you are likely looking, at the very least, a few months of wearing braces.

One decision you will have to make about the treatment is which type of braces you’ll wear: metal or ceramic?

The best way to make this decision is to talk with your orthodontist about the pros and cons of each. But if you’re looking for a bit more help, this short guide can help you understand the key differences between metal and ceramic braces.

Metal Braces: Pros and Cons

Metal braces are the most common type of braces used to realign teeth. They are made from quality stainless steel, and modern ones are a lot smaller and more comfortable than they were even just a few years ago.

The pros of metal braces include:

• Durability, as the stainless steel is non-corrosive and can likely last throughout your entire treatment;
• They are less likely to cause discoloration;
• They are more affordable;

On the other hand, the cons of metal braces are:

• They can leave a metallic taste in your mouth;
• They are quite visible, which can lead to self-esteem issues.

Ceramic Braces: Pros and Cons

Ceramic braces are made from clear materials and are becoming a more popular alternative to metal braces.

They come with some compelling advantages:

• They are less likely to irritate the gums;
• Both the braces and the wire are tooth-colored to provide a discreet treatment;
• They are more comfortable to wear than metal braces;

But, you should also be aware of certain disadvantages:

• They require a longer treatment period;
• They are a bit more fragile than metal braces;
• They cost more than metal braces.

Which One Is Right For You?

The treatment path of both metal and ceramic braces is essentially the same: either metal or ceramic brackets will be attached to the teeth, and the wiring is used to reposition the teeth bit by bit.

You can get great results with either option, so in most cases, it can come down to a few personal preferences:

• How discreet do you want the treatment to be?
• How fast do you want the process to last?
• How much do you want to spend on your treatment?

The best way to know for sure which types of braces are for you is to discuss the issue with an experienced orthodontist who can help you make the right decision based on your specific case.

Interested in Braces? Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics Can Help!

If you are dealing with tooth alignment issues and are thinking about getting braces, our Wyomissing orthodontist Dr. Molly Hottenstein can help you! Based on your first consultation she can recommend the right treatment path to get you a healthy and stunning smile!

Ready to get started? Then book an appointment at Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics online, or call us at (484) 258-2299.