Clear and silver braces

Metal brackets are usually stainless steel, while clear braces commonly use ceramic or another tooth-coloured bracket material. Both systems bond brackets to enamel and use an archwire, ligatures, and periodic adjustments.

Ceramic brackets can be less noticeable, but their appearance depends on the archwire and ties. Metal brackets may be smaller or more robust in some designs. Suitability depends on tooth movement, bite, hygiene, habits, and the orthodontist’s plan.

Have an orthodontic assessment with photographs, dental records, and imaging when indicated. Brush around each bracket, use interdental aids, limit hard or sticky foods, and attend adjustment visits so force remains controlled.

Have an orthodontic assessment with photographs, dental records, and imaging when indicated. Brush around each bracket, use interdental aids, limit hard or sticky foods, and attend adjustment visits so force remains controlled.

Seek care if a wire is cutting tissue, a bracket detaches, facial swelling appears, or pain is severe or persistent. Do not attempt to bend a wire with household tools.

Seek care if a wire is cutting tissue, a bracket detaches, facial swelling appears, or pain is severe or persistent. Do not attempt to bend a wire with household tools.

Which material can deliver the planned movement? How will hygiene, staining, breakage, expected visits, retainers, and total treatment stages differ for me?

Which material can deliver the planned movement? How will hygiene, staining, breakage, expected visits, retainers, and total treatment stages differ for me?

Metal brackets are usually stainless steel, while clear braces commonly use ceramic or another tooth-coloured bracket material. Both systems bond brackets to enamel and use an archwire, ligatures, and periodic adjustments.