Metal braces were historically the primary choice for treating orthodontic issues, primarily worn by young children and teenagers. But more and more adult patients are asking for discrete orthodontic care. Clear braces are a fantastic alternative for people who don’t want everyone to know they are using braces. The degree of correction required will determine the advantages and disadvantages of each type of orthodontic system.
What are the advantages of clear braces?
While using clear plastic brackets and wires or colours matched to your teeth, clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, are functionally identical to metal braces. They are suited for difficult orthodontic disorders and still require adjustment by your orthodontist because they still exert force on your teeth and jaws to correct them.
- The main benefit of clear braces is that they are more aesthetically pleasing because they are less obvious than metal ones. This may significantly impact the quality of life of patients who might feel self-conscious about using an orthodontic appliance.
- The soft tissues of the mouth and gums are less irritated by clear braces than by typical metal braces. To understand more, read our review of the finest invisible braces.
What are the disadvantages of clear braces?
- Due to the design and material utilized, clear braces are typically more expensive than metal braces. The brackets also tend to be a little bigger than metal braces.
- Due to the less durable materials used, clear braces are more likely to be damaged than metal braces, which could result in additional costs for repairs.
- Since the material is porous, the clear or white archwires for clear braces are subject to discoloration.
- Clear braces are more effective for simpler corrective difficulties and have a longer average tooth realignment time than metal braces.
What are the advantages of metal braces?
Traditional braces for orthodontic correction are made of metal. They are made up of metal brackets that are joined by arch wires and are attached to the teeth with specialized dental adhesive. Rubber bands could be necessary for specific circumstances to correct particular situations. The arch wires on metal braces must be adjusted regularly to increase pressure on the teeth and ensure your teeth are straightened properly.
- Clear braces are more expensive than metal braces; thus, for most patients, metal braces are the more affordable alternative. They also realign teeth and address bite problems, particularly gaps, more quickly than other braces. Because metal braces are made of more sturdy materials than clear braces, you are less likely to need to pay for extra repairs.
- Additionally, stains from coloured meals are less visible on metal braces than on transparent ones, which can change the colour of braces if proper oral hygiene is not kept up. Patients can take advantage of the fact that they stand out more than other orthodontic systems by selecting various coloured rubber bands to express their style or display their school colours.
What are the disadvantages of clear braces?
- Metal braces can lower the quality of life for many patients, especially older teens and adults since they are more obvious than other orthodontic systems.
- In your mouth’s soft tissues, especially initially or after an adjustment, they may cause mouth sores.
- Maintaining good dental health while wearing metal braces requires unique brushing and flossing practices that can be time-consuming and difficult to clean.
How to take care of your braces?
You must take the proper care of your braces and teeth, whether you get clear or metal braces. While wearing braces, proper oral hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but you will need to change how often and how you brush and floss. After every meal, you should brush your teeth and braces to eliminate any food particles that might stick to the brackets or wires. To reach the area surrounding the brackets, you can either use a standard toothbrush or a brush with a smaller head that has been particularly created. When flossing, carefully move waxed floss, being careful not to snap it against your gums, between the archwire and the space in the tooth. If your teeth are a little sensitive after an adjustment, a Waterpik or interdental brush can also aid flossing.
Consider scheduling a professional teeth whitening procedure at your Best Dentist West Edmonton, AB, once your braces are taken off to get rid of stains and enhance the colour of your teeth. Call us now at 780-484-8138 to book an appointment.
