Are plastic or ceramic braces better?
Are you planning to enhance the appearance of your smile with braces? Then you must be thinking about which material would be more suitable. If we come to answer as a whole, then ceramic braces are the choice of man people over plastic braces. Why though? Let us help you.
Different factors decide the choice between plastic and ceramic braces. Sometimes, it is about comfort, and most of the time, it is about value for money. Which is best for you is in your hands, but we can make this decision easier. People often find ceramic braces best in terms of effectiveness.
Understand the difference between plastic and ceramic braces based on comfort, appearance, value and lifetime. These factors will help you make decisions faster and more efficiently. First, understand the fundamental difference.
Plastic Braces
Plastic braces are known as clear aligners or invisible braces. These are types of orthodontic treatments that use clear trays to straighten teeth. These are the alternative to traditional metal braces.
Plastic braces are custom-made trays worn over the teeth. Each set of trays is worn for about two weeks, and these trays apply gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into the desired position. These are good options for people with crowded or gapped teeth and crooked teeth.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are also called clear braces. These orthodontic treatment options use tooth-coloured brackets to straighten teeth. These are less noticeable and give a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
These braces use tooth-coloured brackets, wired and rubber bands and are attached to the teeth. The wires apply pressure on the bracket, which gradually moves the teeth. The orthodontist will modify the wires and brackets to straighten the teeth. These are good options for people who want to straighten their teeth without metal braces.
Ceramic Or Plastic: Which One Is Better?
The answer will become more clear if we understand and break down the difference based on general doubts. We often have doubts about the cost, effectiveness, durability and comfort, right? So, let us make it easy for you to make a decision.
Comfort
Ceramic braces are typically made from durable, tooth-coloured materials designed to be smooth against your gums and teeth. While larger than traditional metal braces, Ceramic braces are comfortable and less likely to irritate the mouth. Over time, people have found it more comfortable to wear ceramic braces.
Plastic braces are made from a lightweight, flexible material that tends to be slightly more comfortable than ceramic braces. In terms of size, these can be comfortable to wear and smaller and lighter options.
Appearance
A key advantage of choosing ceramic braces is the appearance of these braces. These are made to match the natural colour of the teeth and make them far less noticeable than metal braces. These are ideal options for individuals who are concerned about the visibility of their braces as they blend in with the tooth enamel.
Plastic braces, like ceramic braces, can also give a clear appearance. However, plastic braces are more prone to staining from food and beverages, especially if you are a tea or coffee person. Over time, these stains can affect the appearance of the plastic braces and make them less appealing.
Value
Due to the materials used, ceramic braces are typically more costly than metal braces. However, they are a more cost-effective alternative to clear aligners and often a value for money because of their aesthetic appeal and long-lasting results. Despite the high cost, ceramic braces offer comfort and a pleasing smile without disturbing your natural smile.
Plastic braces are generally less expensive than ceramic braces. Their cost appeals to people who want a budget-friendly option, however, these can be less durable and may need to be replaced more frequently due to their staining and vulnerability to damage.
Lifetime
Ceramic braces are known for their durability and can last throughout treatment. Proper care is essential to maintain the material’s longevity, but ceramic braces can effectively serve their purpose when cared for properly.
Plastic braces have a shorter lifespan than ceramic braces and are more susceptible to wear and tear. Staining and cracking are the other issues with plastic braces. While they are lighter and more comfortable, they can’t hold up as well under the stresses of regular eating and chewing.
If we now discuss which is better, different factors affect the decision. Plastic braces may suit you if you want a comfortable, lightweight, and affordable solution. However, if effectiveness, longevity and value for money are your priorities, we suggest using ceramic braces. The rest is up to the individual’s choice.