Metal Braces/Traditional Braces
- Known as Traditional Braces or Metal Braces
- Most common orthodontic treatment for teeth alignment
- Dentist-tested for decades
- Lower-cost option compared to ceramic braces and aligners
- Less aesthetically pleasing compared to ceramic braces and aligners
- Visibility may not be preferred for certain lifestyles
- More durable than ceramic braces, but not aligners
- Move teeth faster than ceramic braces, but not aligners
- More stain resistant than ceramic braces, but aligners do not stain
Ceramic Braces
- Essentially the same as traditional braces, except color of the brackets/wire
- Clear or colored brackets that match tooth color
- Wire color is also an option
- Made more for cosmetic purposes than traditional braces
- Better option for adults who will follow their treatment plan more closely
- Less durable than traditional braces
- Stain easier than traditional braces
- Take slightly longer to perfect your smile
- Less visible than traditional braces
- Ceramic braces are cheaper than aligners
See our Dental Blog for more information comparing the types of braces:
Jewell, T. (2019) Ceramic braces: Pros and cons, Healthline. Healthline Media. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/ceramic-braces (Accessed: December 1, 2022).