Braces might not be the most exciting thing to think about. Figuring out which kind is right for you is a big decision. You’re committing to something that will be part of your daily life for a while, so it makes sense to want all the info before jumping in.
The most common orthodontic treatments in Weston and Sunrise that individuals try to decipher between are metal and clear braces. They both work well, but depending on your priorities (budget, appearance, lifestyle), one might stand out more than the other. If you’re feeling torn, you’re not overthinking it, and this stuff matters. Dr. Penny and Dr. Kristen at Sawgrass Orthodontics will walk through what sets them apart so you can feel more confident in your choice.
What Clear Braces Bring to the Table
Let’s start with the option that’s a little more under-the-radar. Clear braces have become a go-to for people who want to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to the fact they’re wearing braces at all. If that’s your vibe, you’ll want to know what makes them so appealing:
They don’t scream, “I’m wearing braces.”
The brackets are made from ceramic or a tooth-colored material, which helps them blend in a lot more than shiny metal. If you’re someone who doesn’t want their smile to feel like the center of attention during treatment, this is a big perk.
They’re just as effective as metal braces
Clear braces still use brackets and wires to shift your teeth, so they’re not like removable aligners. That means you get the same kind of reliable movement you would get with metal, just in a subtler package.
They can be a fun pop of color (if you want)
If you want something soft and natural-looking, you can. If you want to add a little color with the bands, that is also an option. You will have room to personalize things if you’re into that.
They’re usually better than aligners when you need more movement
If you’ve been told you’re not a great fit for clear aligners like Invisalign, don’t stress. Clear braces might be the middle ground, and less visible than metal, but more capable than aligners.
Of course, there’s a little more upkeep. Clear braces can stain over time (especially if coffee or curry is part of your regular rotation). If you’re leaning that way, it’s worth asking about tips to keep them looking fresh.
Where Metal Braces Still Shine
Clear braces get a lot of attention, but there’s a reason metal braces are still going strong. If you’re looking for something durable and efficient, metal might be the better fit, especially for more complex cases. The team at Sawgrass Orthodontics often recommends them when treatment needs a little more power behind the scenes.
Tougher for Tougher Jobs
Metal braces have been around forever for a reason. They’re strong, they get results, and they hold up well even if your case is a little more complex. If your orthodontist says you’re going to need a fair bit of shifting, metal might be the most efficient route.
Speed Matters
In some cases, metal braces can move teeth a bit faster than clear ones. That’s not always guaranteed. However, if shaving a few months off your treatment time matters to you, it’s worth asking about.
Fewer Issues Along the Way
Brackets pop off sometimes. And when they do, you’ve got to get them fixed. Metal braces are less prone to breaking than clear ones, which can save you time and extra appointments in the long run.
Consider Your Daily Life
Beyond all the orthodontic details, think about what kind of experience you want day-to-day. Are you the kind of person who doesn’t mind visible braces? Do you need something that blends in better at work or school? Would you feel frustrated having to baby your braces to avoid stains or cracks?
Cost matters, too. Clear braces are usually more expensive because the materials cost more and they can take a little more time and care to manage. If you’re trying to keep things budget-friendly, metal braces might make more sense. However, that doesn’t mean they’re the “lesser” option. They’re just different.
This is also the time to ask yourself how hands-on you want to be. If you don’t want to stress about what you eat, what you drink, or how carefully you clean your brackets every day, metal might offer more peace of mind.
So Which One Is “Better”?
Neither are technically “better”. It comes down to what’s better for you.
Some people want the fastest option. Others care more about how the braces look during the process. Some want to avoid extra appointments. Others are totally fine with a bit of upkeep in exchange for a less-visible option.
Your Next Step Should Involve Careful Consideration
Dr. Penny and Dr. Kristen can guide you through the pros and cons based on your specific situation, but you know your lifestyle, your schedule, and your comfort zone better than anyone.
This isn’t something you need to figure out on the spot. If you’re still deciding between clear or metal braces, it makes sense to want more clarity before jumping in.
Dr. Kristen and Dr. Penny are great at talking through the options in a way that actually feels helpful, not overwhelming. You won’t get a hard sell or confusing explanations—just honest guidance based on what works for you. With locations in Sunrise and Weston, it makes it convenient to schedule a consultation at Sawgrass Orthodontics.
Back to Blog