Metal vs Ceramic Braces: What Are the Benefits & Which Should You Get?

Sep 11, 2019 | Advanced Dental Treatments

Dental braces can make a huge difference when it comes to the look and feel of your teeth. Not only that. They can positively impact your self-esteem and confidence. When your child approaches the age of 6 to 7, certain dental issues such as crowding emerge.

One of the best solutions offered by dentists in Ireland is interceptive orthodontics. In interceptive orthodontics, the dentist recommends the use of braces. Today, you have a choice of ceramic or metal braces. There are also options for invisible braces, but these are not as effective as traditional orthodontics.

As a parent, making the choice between metal vs ceramic braces is difficult. With our help, you can make a smart decision.

Read on and learn the benefits of ceramic braces vs metal braces.

Ceramic Braces

These are teeth coloured or clear braces designed to blend with your natural teeth. As an alternative to traditional braces, they are made of clear porcelain material. As such, they help to straighten your teeth without making it obvious.

Pros

Ceramic braces are popular with adults. As such, they can change one’s smile in a few months. The following are the pros of ceramic braces.

High Aesthetic Value

As said before, ceramic braces are made out of clear porcelain material. To secure the braces to your teeth, a dentist will use tooth-coloured wires. This makes the braces less noticeable.

Less Irritation to the Gums

As an orthodontic patient, you must visit the dentist for adjustments. Due to the change of their position, your gums may become slightly irritated and uncomfortable.

What you need to know is that ceramic braces tend to cause less irritation to your gums than traditional metal braces do.

Comfortable to Wear

When it comes to metal vs ceramic braces comfort, ceramic braces are more comfortable. As such, they will not irritate the sides of your mouth or your gums. After two to four weeks, there will be no pain.

Cons

While ceramic braces are less painful and do not irritate the gums, they have a few cons. The following are the cons of ceramic braces.

Treatment time is longer

Everyone wants to have a perfect smile. With ceramic braces, this is possible thanks to the use of clear porcelain material. Problem is, the braces are more fragile than metal braces and thus treatment time tends to be longer. Why is this? They cannot withstand much pressure, though the success rate is extremely high and worth the wait. 

Higher Cost

Compared to metal braces, ceramic braces are costly. The reason for this is the use of clear porcelain and other high-quality materials. Also, they take more time to achieve the desired results.

Metal Braces

Made from stainless steel brackets and wires, they move the teeth and correct alignment. With the help of ligatures, the braces are adjustable. When it comes to self-ligating braces, they have clips which hold wires to the brackets.

Pros

Want to straighten your teeth? You may be wondering what the pros of metal braces are. The following are the pros of metal braces.

Less Likely to Discolour

Made of stainless steel, metal braces are less likely to discolour. Ceramic braces can cause discolouration although the issue is easy to correct. How? By brushing and flossing each day.

Durable

Stainless steel is a tough metal with corrosion resistant properties. As such, it is durable and lasts throughout the full treatment.

Less Expensive

Metal braces are less expensive compared to ceramic braces. As such, you or your child can get the best treatment at an affordable rate.

Cons

Although they are durable and can correct crooked teeth and bite issues, metal braces have a few cons. The following are the cons of ceramic braces.

Leaves a Metallic Taste in Your Mouth

Continued use of metal braces leaves a metallic taste in your mouth. This can be unpleasant both short and long term.

Braces Are Noticeable

Unlike ceramic braces, metal braces are made from stainless steel. As such, they are noticeable. This may have an impact on the self-esteem and confidence of the patient.

Metal vs Ceramic Braces – Which Is the Best Option for You?

When it comes to metal vs ceramic braces, there are various factors to consider before making a decision. They include cost, type of dental issue to be fixed, the severity of the dental issue and preference. Remember, keep your teeth clean by flossing and bruising to eliminate staining.

Want to restore your self-confidence and bright smile? We at Shields Dental Clinic can help. Schedule an appointment today!

Recent Articles

Similar Articles