Learn which treatment is right for you when searching for braces in Houston
The diverse types of braces can sometimes create confusion as to which appliance is more effective. Many people ask if all braces work the same. How do you know if metal braces work better than clear braces? Or vice versa?
To answer this question, the following highlights the differences between metal braces and clear braces, while noting the pros and cons of each type.
Pros and cons of metal braces
Metal braces are the traditional form of braces in the science of orthodontics. Interestingly, braces date back to ancient times, but orthodontic treatment truly began developing in the 18th century. Since then, orthodontic therapy continues evolving to make the treatment more comfortable and appealing.
While metal braces continue to be the most common type that patients use, other forms are also used. Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel and consist of metal brackets attached to the teeth with wires that pass-through openings in the brackets. Tiny rubber bands called “ligatures” keep the wires in place.
One benefit of using metal braces is that they can be more effective when it comes to treating overcrowding of the teeth. Another benefit of metal braces is that in some cases, they can be less expensive than other types.
A negative side of metal braces is that these tend to create friction inside the lips causing discomfort to patients and are less attractive with their metal-mouth appearance when smiling.
Pros and cons of clear braces
Clear braces work the same way as metal braces but these consist of a clear ceramic material vs metal.
One benefit of clear ceramic braces is that they add a gentler force when moving the teeth and reduce friction inside the lips. Ceramic braces are tooth-colored, adding another benefit given their aesthetic appearance.
One thing to note with clear braces is that the ceramic material makes them more fragile than their metal counterpart. Another disadvantage is the elastic ties that hold the brackets can discolor between orthodontic visits giving them a yellowish appearance over time. However, the office of Dr. Mauricio Arguello at Houston Orthodontics uses self-ligating braces that do not discolor during treatment.
Which type of braces works better?
After reviewing the pros and cons of these types of braces, you now have a good understanding of which suits you well.
Depending on the complexity of your orthodontic treatment, it is best to consult an expert in the field, like Dr. Mauricio Arguello at Houston Orthodontics, before choosing your braces. Dr. Arguello is a well-established orthodontist in Houston that provides a thorough evaluation during your first visit and guides you in choosing which treatment is best for you.
Searching for orthodontists in Houston?
If you are in the Houston area and are searching for braces in Houston, Dr. Mauricio Arguello at Houston Orthodontics will guide you in selecting the right braces that best suit you. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Arguello will start your treatment with little wait time by creating dental molds in-office with the use of a 3-D printer vs sending impressions to a lab that delays your treatment. Dr. Arguello is an orthodontist in Houston with 5-star reviews from his patients.
Call our office at 713-664-6611 to schedule an appointment or visit our website at bracesinhouston.com to learn more about our services.