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What’s the difference between ceramic braces, metal braces, and clear aligners?
A dentist might advise braces as a way to help realign and straighten your teeth. Teenagers might favour transparent braces over traditional metal braces because they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces.
The traditional metal braces, which are made of metal brackets, are somewhat more visible whether you grin, laugh, or speak out loud. Ceramic braces, which include brackets composed of ceramic or porcelain, or in some circumstances plastic, are less apparent than metal braces because they blend in with the colour of your natural teeth, which should make them less noticeable.
A form of ceramic braces, clear braces are used to move the teeth into their new positions by using brackets and wires to shift the teeth. Clear ceramic braces are distinct from Invisalign Teen clear aligners, which are transparent, removable, and custom-made orthodontic devices that are similar in appearance to clear ceramic braces.
Important factors to consider with clear ceramic or metal braces
Before getting clear ceramic or metal braces, you should consider things like durability, sensitivity, cost, diet, and oral care.
Durability
Braces made of metal are renowned for performing well over time. Ceramic braces are durable and strong, but if you play sports or engage in other activities that put stress on your mouth, jaw, or both, they may chip or break. It's possible that these repairs will cost a lot of money.
Sensitivity
Patients may experience mild irritation of their inside lips as a result of the ceramic material because ceramic brackets are larger than standard metal brackets. If you have a sensitive oral cavity, even though the difference should be insignificant, it's important to keep it in mind.
Cost
The most affordable option for orthodontic treatment is typically traditional metal braces because they are the most efficient. Ceramic braces are typically slightly more expensive than conventional braces, and some insurance policies might not cover the additional cost, so it is advisable to check with your insurance provider before getting started.
Diet
Patients with clear ceramic or metal braces should refrain from eating foods that could cause the metal to shift and harm the wires or brackets. Although they are not limited to them, such foods include candy, caramel, apples, and popcorn.
Additionally, some foods and beverages (such as coffee, tea, cola, and tomato sauce) can stain and discolour the transparent ceramic brackets in the clear ceramic braces.
Oral Care
Food and plaque can easily get caught in the wires and brackets of traditional metal or clear ceramic braces, rendering them useless. In order to keep your mouth clean, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices on a regular basis and to floss after meals.