Ceramic Braces vs. Traditional Braces: What’s the Difference?

There is no doubt the world of dentistry has changed dramatically over the last few hundred years. Your teeth are an important part of your body and your ongoing health. It is important to look after them.

In more recent years, looking after them has not been enough. There is also a desire to make them look perfect. This can require a wide range of measures but the result will always be the ‘Hollywood smile’.

In the past, braces were huge metal objects that transformed the wearer into something out of a horror movie. The purpose of a brace is to align your teeth correctly; fortunately modern braces are vastly different to these primitive structures.

This is why it is essential to visit your Dentist in Bankstown regularly to ensure you have the best advice and care. Your teeth and your overall health will thank you for it!

If you need braces, you’re not alone! Estimates suggest 45% of children need braces and many adults are also now getting them!

The Ceramic Brace

A ceramic brace is made from ceramic or porcelain. It is also possible to make them from tough plastic. They are fitted directly to your teeth and can be either transparent or made the same color as your teeth.

This makes the brace virtually invisible; helping to boost your confidence while wearing the brace. The brackets are fixed to your teeth and joined together with clear wire, forcing your teeth to move into the right position and correcting your smile and bite.

The Traditional Brace

This works in the same way. Small pads are fixed to your teeth and joined together with wire to correct the positioning of your teeth.

The difference is that traditional braces are made from metal. This makes them much more noticeable when you smile or talk.

Which Should You Choose?

There are several factors to consider before you choose between ceramic and traditional braces:

• Cost

Metal braces are cheaper to purchase and fit than the ceramic option. If your funds are low or your insurance will not cover the cost of braces then this is a good idea. The result will be the same but the cost will be lower with traditional braces.

• Self-Confidence

If you already have an issue with the way you look or a lack of self-confidence then traditional braces are likely to make you feel more self-conscious. This can be a serious issue when you are young as it can affect your confidence for life.

In this instance the ceramic brace would definitely be the better option.

• Activity Level

If you are particularly active you might prefer the traditional brace as it is stronger. When playing contact sports a blow to the face is likely; this can cause damage to ceramic braces relatively easily. Traditional ones are stronger and less likely to crack.

You will also need to consider how sensitive your mouth is as some people have reported issues with ceramic braces. Providing you choose the braces that you are comfortable with, you can quickly gain the smile you deserve.

Photo by Yingpis Kalayom.