Choosing the best braces for your orthodontic treatment is essential for a better smile.
However, that decision can be challenging due to the wide variety of braces options on the market. From standard and self-ligating braces to clear options and invisible aligners, it can feel like you have too many options to choose from.
If you’re experiencing some analysis paralysis when choosing between clear and regular braces, we’re here to help!
In this post, we’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of clear braces and let you know which one we prefer.
Clear Braces vs Regular Braces: Which Is Better?
Deciding between clear and regular braces comes down to three essential factors: effectiveness, ease of care, and cost. Considering these three aspects will help you determine whether clear or regular braces are the right choice.
Are Clear or Regular Braces More Effective?
Effectiveness should be the bottom line regarding the braces you choose. While both types of braces use similar hardware, regular metal braces are often more effective.
Much of the reason for this comes down to the materials both these braces systems use.
Clear braces aren’t really “clear” in many cases. They are often made of tooth-colored ceramic brackets and frosted wire that match your tooth color.
Due to ceramic being more rigid and brittle than metal, the brackets are twice as likely to break during adjustments and can’t apply the same moving force as metal braces, such as space closure.
Which Type of Braces Is Easier to Care for?
The ceramic material used for clear braces blends in with your teeth, but it takes a lot of work for the brackets to stay that way.
Ceramic is prone to staining if you drink dark beverages, such as soda, coffee, or tea. On top of that, the clear elastics most orthodontists use tend to yellow over time, which means the clear braces only stay clear for a short time.
Since ceramic is more brittle than metal, you must also be more conscious of protecting your braces when choosing clear ones.
If you lead an active lifestyle or participate in contact sports, you may need to avoid some activities because the ceramic may break on impact.
On the other hand, metal brackets are more forgiving of impact.
The Cost Difference of Clear vs. Regular Braces
Price is one of the most significant differences between clear and regular braces.
Clear braces are pricier than their metal counterparts. Typically, practices will upcharge for clear brackets, making your case cost more.
It’s important to remember that braces are a temporary feature.
While metal braces may stand out more when worn, their increased effectiveness will mean you spend less time in braces and have fewer follow-up appointments than a ceramic option.
The lower initial price point and less time at the orthodontist means metal braces will save you significant money over clear.
The Difference Between Damon Braces and Typical Clear Braces
At Orthobar, we use the best braces available — Damon Ultima Braces. These braces are superior to typical clear and metal braces because they:
- Provide better tooth movement with more gentle force
- Are self-ligating, meaning they require no painful elastics
- Use smaller brackets that blend in better than regular braces
- Can be simpler to clean than typical clear and metal braces
- Have a smooth bracket face that makes them more comfortable
The Damon System is also available in clear ceramic and metal options.
While ceramic is less durable than metal, Damon Clear Braces work better and break less than other clear braces because they require less force to move teeth.
And since they require no elastics, Damon Clear Braces won’t yellow like other clear braces.
Which Braces Should You Choose?
The type of braces you choose will ultimately depend on your preference.
Responsible adults or teenagers who are willing to spend extra money and time on a less visible option may prefer clear braces over metal.
However, we recommend Damon Ultima at Orthobar more than any other type of braces that we provide.
The Damon Ultima System’s gentle moving force, better tooth movement, and comfortable self-ligating design make it a clear winner for our team.
Schedule a Consultation for Durable Damon Braces at Orthobar
At Orthobar, we aim to create a genuine connection with our patients and help them find the best treatments for their unique needs.
From offering the best treatments with the best orthodontic technology to our affordable payment plans, we dedicate ourselves to providing the best care around. If you want a better orthodontic experience in the Las Vegas area, schedule a consultation with us today. We can’t wait to see you!