Metal Braces vs. Ceramic Braces: Which is better?

Earlier, if you had to get your teeth straightened and smile fixed, your only option was traditional metal braces. However, dental sciences have seen many advances to provide a wider choice for you. It still keeps changing and improving, and owing to these advances, metal braces are now not the only option you have. You can choose from various braces ranging from clear to tooth-colored, even colorful ones if you like them. However, metal braces are still in use as they are time tested and can treat a wide variety of orthodontic anomalies. At Wilmington Orthodontic Center, we understand that decision-making can be confusing and a tedious task with so many choices. In this blog, Dr. Pancko in Wilmington explains the advantages and disadvantages of metal and ceramic braces to help you, our valued patients, make a calculated decision.

METAL BRACES

Metal braces at Wilmington Orthodontic Center have withstood the trials of time. Metal braces near you in Wilmington are the most conventional and tried option for teeth straightening, correcting misalignments, and facial proportions. Metal braces in Wilmington Orthodontic Center consist of metal brackets bonded to the surface of teeth and wires and elastics used to apply forces to straighten your teeth. Braces remain in your mouth for a long time; therefore, they must be biocompatible. Due to these reasons, metal brackets are made of medical-grade stainless steel, titanium, nickel, and even gold alloys. Dr. Pancko in Wilmington uses dental cement to bond these brackets to the teeth' surface. The dental bracket contains slots through which a metal archwire is passed. 

ADVANTAGES OF METAL BRACES PLACED AT WILMINGTON ORTHODONTIC CENTER

• Higher-strength and durability.
• Can treat a variety of orthodontic anomalies, including complex cases which any other methods cannot treat.
• Metal is more robust, which means fewer chances of breakage, also forces applied can be sustained for a longer time.
• Tried and trusted by orthodontists all around the world.
• Seamless and uninterrupted treatment.
• Cost-effective in comparison to other orthodontic treatments.

DISADVANTAGES OF METAL BRACES 

• The most significant disadvantage of metal braces is the appearance of metal in the mouth. 
• You will have to live with metal in your mouth until your treatment is completed with us at Wilmington Orthodontic Center.
• It can make you conscious of your appearances.
• The wires can break and poke in your mouth and can lead to injury.
• The brackets can dislodge
• If proper hygiene is not maintained, tartar and food debris start accumulating around the braces.
• It comes with restrictions, and you may have some discomfort at the beginning of the treatment. 

CERAMIC BRACES 

Metal braces get the job done with finesse; however, the disadvantages associated with them led to the advent of ceramic braces or clear braces. Ceramic braces near you at Wilmington Orthodontic Center align your teeth similarly to metal braces. Ceramic braces have the same components as metal braces, but they use clear or tooth-colored brackets compared to metallic silver brackets used in traditional braces. Ceramic braces consist of brackets that are made of porcelain and, in some cases, medical-grade plastic. Earlier the archwire used to be made of metal, but now clear wires are also available, making these even less visible.  

ADVANTAGES OF CERAMIC BRACES PROVIDED AT WILMINGTON ORTHODONTIC CENTER

• Less prominent than metal braces.
• Aesthetically superior and much appealing.
• Virtually invisible in photographs.
• Durable.
• Blends with your teeth.
• Ceramic braces provided at Wilmington Orthodontic Center do not stain easily.
• You have the option to choose. 
• Can treat a variety of orthodontic anomalies. 

DISADVANTAGES OF CERAMIC BRACES 

• Although ceramic braces are durable, they are not as durable as metal, thus, prone to breakage.
• Consumption of excess caffeine and alcohol can stain the ceramic in the long run.
• They are more expensive than metal braces. 
• They are fragile, may cause teeth sensitivity and gum irritation. 
• Require more adjustments than metal braces.
• It may not be a suitable option where higher-level corrections are required. 

In conclusion, the answer to which braces are better depends on individual cases and requirements. The choice of braces will be dependent on you and our orthodontist, Dr. Pancko, at Wilmington Orthodontic Center. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with us, contact us, and our team of fantastic dental professionals will be there to assist you.