Trying to figure out the difference between metal and clear braces? Whether you have already had a consultation at Saddle Creek Orthodontics or are just starting to think of transforming your smile, this blog has something for you. Keep reading to learn all about these two treatments and why it matters which one you pick.
How Do Braces Work?
While it may seem like braces, just sit there as a cover to hide the fact that your orthodontist is a real-life wizard or witch using magic to move your teeth, but they’re not! Braces do much more than sit there and look pretty. Through brackets, wires, and ligatures (the bands that attach the wires to the brackets), braces take advantage of your body’s natural bone remodeling process to push and pull your teeth and jaw into an alignment that is more functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Like with everything else on the market, there are many braces options to choose from. At Saddle Creek Orthodontics, we proudly offer two kinds of fixed braces. Let’s check them out.
To learn more about bone remodeling and clear aligners, please click here to read our April blog.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are more than likely what you think of when you think of braces. Traditionally, they have shiny silver brackets and colorful ligatures, and while there are some variations of this design, our team has found that, in this case, “basic” is best!
Their name comes from their brackets, which are made of a blend of durable metals, including stainless steel and nickel. These materials make them the most durable and efficient fixed braces design on the market today.
Clear Braces
Like metal braces, clear braces get their name from their brackets. Instead of shiny, eye-catching metal, clear braces are made of a tooth-colored polycrystalline ceramic material that blends in with your teeth. They’re a much more subtle option for treatment, ensuring that the first thing people notice about your smile is the feeling you’re trying to convey, not the orthodontic appliance working to improve its appearance.
Why Does It Matter What Type Of Braces You Have?
Metal and clear braces are very similar in design and function. However, due to the different materials in their construction, they have distinct pros and cons. If you qualify for both options, you’ll have to weigh them so you can pick the method that will make your treatment experience smooth and comfortable.
- The Severity Of Your Needs: Metal braces are much better suited for complex alignment issues. Their heavy-duty design allows them to handle the pressure required to treat more serious alignment needs.
- Treatment Duration: Speaking of poise under pressure, because metal braces can handle more force at once, they can move teeth along their movement path faster. This means they might be able to wrap up treatment sooner than the more delicate clear braces. If you need help visualizing, think of braces like a bowling ball. When someone gently sends their ball down the lane, it takes longer to get to the pins. It might not even knock any pins over! On the other hand, when someone sends their ball down the lane with a force that says, “I can’t afford to lose,” it reaches the pins quicker, knocking more down, potentially allowing the game to finish at a faster rate. So, if completing treatment as quickly as possible is a priority for you, you might want metal braces.
- Appearance: Your choice of braces isn’t just about cosmetics, though it does play a big part. If you are concerned that metal braces might make you self-conscious of your smile or that clients, coworkers, or potential romantic partners might be less than impressed with metal braces (which, despite a recent trend of adult patients, are frequently associated with teens and children), discreet clear braces could be better for you.
- Your Schedule: Clear brackets do not stain, but their glue or ligatures might. In some cases, clear braces need more frequent adjustments than metal ones. To keep clear braces looking and performing their best, you’ll need to be able to commit to attending every appointment at Saddle Creek Orthodontics within the time frame recommended by your orthodontist. If your schedule is prone to frequent changes, then metal braces, which are more forgiving about rescheduling, could be an ideal match for you.
- Insurance: Unfortunately, some dental insurance comes with rules about what they will and will not cover. Many plans do not offer coverage for clear braces. It’s important to know your benefits—and we can help you navigate the confusing world of insurance—before making a decision so you can minimize out-of-pocket expenses whenever possible.
Don’t Delay Your Smile Transformation By Overthinking—Schedule Now!
The choice between metal and clear braces is a personal decision, but having the help of board-certified orthodontists like Dr. Kyle and Dr. John can make a huge difference. Visit Saddle Creek Orthodontics in Germantown or Collierville, TN, for a free consultation today and discover which treatments can help you achieve the incredible smile you always wanted.