Ceramic Braces vs Metal Braces

Braces are a common dental appliance, with over 4 million Americans currently wearing them. For years they’ve served to straighten teeth with their recognizable metallic gleam, but did you know there are other options to straighten teeth with braces? Since the 1980s, ceramic braces have been a standard part of orthodontic treatment. And even in the last decade, Rhodium metal has come on the scene with its soft luster and discreet look.  Let’s compare ceramic, Rhodium and metal braces and discover their similarities and differences.

What Are Metal Braces?

Metal braces are the traditional braces you see many people wearing, especially children. They consist of stainless-steel brackets and wires bound together with rubber bands or a metal clip. Over time, the wires and bands are adjusted to exert more pressure on your teeth. As the pressure is increased, the gums around the teeth are loosened, allowing the teeth to slowly move. Once the teeth are in their new position, a retainer is used to hold the teeth in place while new bone is formed to keep the teeth straight. 

What Are Ceramic Braces? 

Ceramic braces work in the same way as metal braces. They also have brackets and wires that exert pressure to reposition the teeth. One major difference with ceramic braces is they are clear or tooth-colored, which makes them much less noticeable than metal braces. This can make them an excellent alternative for teens and adults who may be self-conscious about wearing silver braces. 

How Are Rhodium Braces Different? 

A third option is Rhodium braces. This metal bracket presents a much less noticeable look with a soft shine, resembling silver jewelry. The advantage of this type of bracket is the improved look without the abrasive and brittle nature of the ceramic braces.

Ceramic Braces vs Metal Braces

As already mentioned, ceramic braces are more discreet than metal braces, which often makes them more desirable among teens and adults. They can also treat some things better than Invisalign clear aligners while still being hard to see, making them a good option for older patients with more severe spacing or crookedness issues. And unlike Invisalign, you don’t need to remember to wear them, since they are always on. 

Because ceramic braces are made out of ceramic instead of metal, they may be a more brittle than traditional metal braces. Because of this, you need to be extra careful not to eat hard or sticky foods, like caramel, popcorn, nuts, gum, chips, or hard crackers to avoid breaking the brackets. These braces are also more abrasive and can wear down enamel if the upper teeth contact the lower braces.

While it’s best to avoid darker-colored food or beverages when you’re wearing metal braces to avoid discoloring the exposed part of your teeth, our Orlando orthodontists at Fravel Brewer advise you will want to be careful consuming these items with ceramic braces because they can discolor the clear or tooth-colored brackets too. 

Ceramic and Rhodium braces are a little more expensive than metal braces, due to their material. While the difference isn’t a lot, it’s something to consider when deciding what type of braces to get. 

If you are interested in ceramic, metal, or Rhodium braces in Orlando, contact Fravel Brewer Orthodontics today. We can schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the next steps in your journey to a healthier smile.