You know you need braces, but you don't want a "mouthful of metal." Clear (ceramic) braces can be a good alternative. But what are the pros and cons of clear braces vs. metal braces?
Surfside Smile Co. offers both metal and clear braces because our patients have different tastes and priorities. Some want a new smile no matter what. Others want that smile with a cleaner look.
Which type of braces is best for you? Let's weigh the pros and cons of each. For a look at every option, see our guide to the different types of braces.
Clear braces, or ceramic braces, work the same way as traditional metal braces, using gentle pressure to move your teeth into the correct positions. The difference is that the brackets are made of tooth-colored ceramic instead of stainless steel, making them much less visible.
Like metal braces, clear braces take 12 to 24 months on average. The exact time varies from patient to patient, depending on the number and severity of the dental issues being corrected.
You may think ceramic braces aren't as durable as stainless steel ones, and you'd be right. Stainless steel is the most durable option. They are difficult to break or damage and highly resistant to staining.
Ceramic is strong, but it can chip or crack in certain situations. Hard, chewy, or sticky foods can damage ceramic braces. These are the same foods we warn against with metal braces. Curious what to expect with traditional braces? Read our post on metal braces side effects and when to seek help.
Ceramic brackets are made to be stain-resistant. However, they can still stain over time with repeated exposure to dark-colored foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, tomatoes, berries, and chocolate.
Good oral hygiene is essential during treatment, especially with ceramic braces. Brushing after meals and snacks can reduce the chance of staining.
The elastics that hold the archwire to ceramic brackets can stain too, but we replace them at every adjustment appointment.
Treatment time is typically about the same for ceramic and metal braces. It can be extended if brackets have to be replaced often because of damage, so patients who are careful with what they eat usually stay on schedule.
What about the cost of ceramic braces? In general, ceramic braces cost a bit more because of the material used. How much more depends on several factors. Surfside Smile Co. will discuss costs and options at your initial consultation.
Several factors can determine which is best for you, from appearance to cost. Metal braces generally cost less, while clear braces are less visible.
Clear braces, like clear aligners, tend to appeal to teenagers and adults who want a less visible option but still want a great smile. Younger children may do better with metal braces because they may not wear Invisalign® clear aligners long enough each day.
Metal braces are the tried-and-true method for correcting a wide range of orthodontic problems, including complex ones. Many of those patients can use clear braces, too, but some cases are too complex for clear aligners. Not sure whether aligners are an option for you? See our comparison of braces vs. Invisalign.
Surfside Smile Co. uses the iTero® scanning system to build a detailed treatment plan. We also use iTero to track your progress, no matter which bracket type you choose.
Are ceramic braces as effective as metal braces? In most cases, yes. Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces to correct orthodontic issues. We'll recommend the type that fits your case best.
Do ceramic braces stain permanently? Usually not. Ceramic brackets are stain-resistant, but over time they can discolor, especially if you often eat dark-colored foods and drinks or don't brush and floss properly during treatment. The elastics holding your archwire to your brackets stain first, which is why we replace them at every adjustment.
Are ceramic braces more expensive than metal braces? Generally, yes. Ceramic costs more than stainless steel, so clear braces typically cost more. Ceramic also isn't as durable, so you may need to repair or replace brackets more often. We'll go over exact costs at your consultation.
Can kids get ceramic braces, or is it mainly for teens and adults? Kids can get ceramic braces, just like teens and adults. We'll help you and your child choose the option that fits best.
Clear braces are a great alternative for patients who don't want a mouthful of metal but also don't want the responsibility of keeping up with Invisalign, or whose cases are too complex for clear aligners. Schedule an appointment with Surfside Smile Co. in Middletown, NJ, to see if ceramic braces are right for you.
Enjoy a Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation for anyone 7+.
Call 732-639-0011 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.