01 Nov The Two Main Types of Braces: Metal and Clear Braces

There are a few key factors to consider when deciding between metal braces and clear (ceramic) braces:

One of the main differences between these two types of braces is visibility. Metal braces tend to be less expensive than clear braces. Some people find metal braces to be more comfortable than clear braces because they are less bulky and do not rub against the inside of the mouth as much. Both metal braces and clear braces are effective at straightening teeth and correcting misalignment issues. The choice between the two will depend on your specific orthodontic needs and the recommendations of your orthodontist.

How do Braces Help?

Misaligned teeth can cause several issues, both for dental and overall health. Braces are a common treatment for misaligned teeth and misaligned bites. They work by applying steady pressure to your teeth to gradually move them into their corrected positions. Braces work by applying steady pressure to your teeth to gradually move them into their corrected positions.

In traditional metal braces, the wire is held against the brackets using rubber bands called ligatures. The ligatures, which are also called elastics, are typically made of rubber or a similar elastic material. They are available in a variety of colors, so you can choose a color that matches your braces or expresses your style.

Correcting misaligned teeth through treatment with braces or other orthodontic methods can help address these issues and improve your dental and overall health.

The Difference Between Metal Braces & Clear Braces

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are made entirely of metal. They consist of small metal brackets that are attached to the fronts of your teeth using a special adhesive, and a wire that runs through the brackets and is held in place with rubber bands called ligatures.

While metal braces have become more comfortable and streamlined over the years, some people may still be hesitant to wear them because of their appearance. If you are concerned about the appearance of metal braces, you may want to consider other types of braces such as clear (ceramic) braces or clear aligners.

Clear Braces

Clear (ceramic) braces are similar to metal braces in that they use brackets and a wire to apply pressure to your teeth and move them into their corrected positions. However, the brackets are made of a clear or tooth-colored ceramic material, which makes them less noticeable than metal braces.

It’s important to note that clear braces are not transparent and are not as discrete as clear aligners like Invisalign. They are larger and more brittle than metal braces and may be more prone to breaking or chipping. They also tend to be more expensive than metal braces, so they are often only used on the upper front teeth, which are the most visible.

Option 3: Clear Aligners

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening teeth. They are made from a clear, flexible plastic material that is custom-made to fit your teeth. The aligners are worn for most of the day and are removed when eating, brushing, and flossing. They are designed to gently shift your teeth into their correct positions over time, and most treatment plans involve wearing a series of progressively tighter aligners. One of the benefits of clear aligners is that they are virtually invisible, so they are less noticeable than traditional braces. They are also removable, which makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and to eat comfortably. Clear aligners are often used to correct a variety of orthodontic issues, including misaligned teeth, overcrowding, and gaps between teeth.

What about the cost?

The cost of orthodontic treatment can vary significantly depending on the specific treatment plan and the type of braces or aligners used. Some general factors that can affect the cost of orthodontic treatment include the severity of the orthodontic problem, the length of treatment, the type of braces or aligners used, and the location of the orthodontist’s practice. It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of orthodontic treatment can also vary based on your specific insurance coverage. Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for orthodontic treatment, and some orthodontists offer financing options or payment plans to help make treatment more affordable.

Do you need more guidance on which is the right type of braces for you? Here at Taunton Orthodontics, our qualified orthodontists – Dr. Singer and Dr. Shapiro in Whitby, are just one call away! They are ready to assess your smile and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs. Book your appointment today!