An orthodontist’s View on Metal And Ceramic Braces

Often, braces are the reasons people avoid going to the orthodontist. Especially when you became an adult, wearing those metal braces is quite difficult and makes you feel uncomfortable communicating with other people.

There is no doubt that metal braces have highest success ratio than all other options like Invisalign, Inman aligner and lingual braces which are less visible compared to metal braces. But, after a certain age, it might be difficult to adopt treatment with the metal braces. In such a scenario, ceramic braces seem to be a more suitable option as an alternative to metal braces.

What is it?

In ceramic braces, the brackets which hold the metal wire is built of composite material (polycrystalline alumina) or colored a way which synchronize with the color of the patient's teeth which makes it visibility less noticeable compared to traditional braces where metal brackets are used.

How it works?

Ceramic braces work on the same principle as traditional Braces, a metal wire is bound around the teeth wherever it is needed, to solve the issues like crowded and spaced teeth.

Which one to Choose?

Ceramic braces are more expensive than metal braces. If your insurance doesn’t cover dental costs, you should opt for metal braces. Hence, depending on the actual condition, the cost may vary for both.

Metal braces have a better success ratio compared to ceramic. For kids, who doesn’t need to face personality issues as adults, it is better to go with metal braces.

Gum irritation and teeth stains are less in ceramic compared to metal braces, a good advantage with extra cost.

Brackets in ceramic braces are not as strong as metal braces. Unexpected injury or hit on your teeth can break ceramic brackets or damage elastic bands on a bracket which is less possible with metal braces.

For certain critical conditions, treatment with ceramic braces lasts longer and may cost higher compared to metal braces.

The adoption of specific types of braces solely depends on the patient condition. In certain conditions, you may require to have a corrective jaw surgery or tooth extraction for perfect results. Instead of deciding on your own, you must consult with licensed orthodontist having good experience with all type of braces and other options for orthodontic treatment.