Clear and metal braces

Clear ceramic braces and metal braces both use brackets, an archwire, and controlled force to move teeth; their appearance and material differ.

Clear ceramic and metal braces use bonded brackets and an archwire to apply measured forces that guide teeth through the supporting bone. Ceramic brackets are tooth-coloured, while metal brackets are stainless steel.

Have an orthodontic examination with photographs, measurements, and suitable imaging before choosing. Brush around every bracket, clean under the wire, and follow the appliance and food instructions.

See the orthodontic team for a loose bracket, protruding wire, persistent ulceration, severe pain, or swelling. Seek urgent help for facial trauma or breathing difficulty.

Ask which movements your case requires, whether ceramic brackets are suitable for those forces, how cleaning will be managed, and what retainers are planned afterward.