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Types of Braces

Home » Braces » Types of Braces

So, it’s time for braces. One of the first questions people will ask you is what kind of braces are you going to get? There are two kinds of braces available: traditional metal braces and ceramic or clear braces. As you read through this page, you will learn about the differences between these two types of braces and what each of them does for you. The knowledge you find here will help you make an informed decision about the kind of braces that are perfect for you.

Traditional Metal Braces

What are metal braces?

Metal braces are the traditional orthodontic tool for straightening crooked teeth and correcting facial asymmetries, such as bite issues. They consist of stainless steel or titanium alloy brackets that we adhere to your teeth. These metal brackets are highly durable and won’t corrode. Those two traits are essential since the brackets will stay in your mouth long-term. A metal wire called an archwire is attached to the brackets that enable us to create tension that moves the teeth into their correct location. Rubber bands keep the wires in place.

Are metal braces better?

Metal braces work well. They were the very first orthodontic appliance. So, they are tried and true. Their extended service time speaks volumes about the quality job they do. Are they better than other types of braces? The answer to that question is really a personal journey. It is essential to understand that metal braces do a good job. They are also less expensive than other types of braces and they tend to work faster.

What is a typical treatment like with metal braces?

Treatment with metal braces is a series of orthodontic appointments. The first appointment is to fit the brackets to your teeth. That process occurs after the removal of extra teeth occurs. You will feel pressure in your mouth as the brackets are applied to your teeth. For molars, ring brackets may be installed. Brackets fit the front of the tooth on other teeth so that the wire passes over the teeth. When the wire adjustment occurs, you will feel the tension on individual teeth. Not every tooth has pressure at the same time. In between visits, you may experience gum and cheek irritation. This is not uncommon and somewhat expected. Sometimes the wire ends may become pokey. We give you a wax container to put over the irritating pieces, which helps to soothe your mouth. You may experience pain from the tension on the teeth. If that happens, we are here to help you should you experience pain.

Flossing is handled by a string method where you feed the string through your teeth so that you can floss each area of your mouth. It takes a little while longer with braces because you have to string the floss over the braces. Every month or so, you have an appointment to reapply tension to the wires. These appointments allow the orthodontist to readjust tension on your teeth so that progress is made.

How much do metal braces cost?

Each case is different, and insurance companies to reimburse at the same rate. Also, because your mouth is full of its own unique challenges, it is difficult to give you an exact price without an evaluation visit.

Do metal Braces hurt?

They can cause pain and irritation. Both are treatable. Irritation from the metal pieces is often overcome simply by apply wax to the irritation part. Pain from tension on the teeth can be treated or the tension reduced.

Ceramic /Clear Braces:

What are ceramic (also known as clear) braces?

Ceramic braces are very similar to metal braces. One difference is that the brackets are clear or tooth-colored with ceramic braces. Another difference is that the archwire used can also be tooth-colored or clear. These work in the same way that metal braces do.

What is the typical treatment length with ceramic braces?

The typical treatment using ceramic braces is slightly longer than the treatment period for metal braces. Expect treatments to last from 1 1/2 to three years or longer. One issue with ceramic braces is that they are fragile, which means more office visits for replacing brackets and adjusting tension.

Do Ceramic Braces Hurt?

You run into the same types of pain issues with ceramic braces as you do with metal braces. The tension is less severe with ceramic braces than with metal braces, but you can experience pain caused by pressure on the archwire. That is easily remedied with an office visit. The structure of ceramic braces can also cause irritation. Wax is a good solution for smoothing out the irritation.

How much do Ceramic Braces cost?

Every case is different, so the best answer here is a range. There may be extra costs due to the fact that ceramic braces are more fragile than are metal braces. That means it takes more office visits to achieve the same level of treatment. The tension on the archwires is adjusted more frequently with ceramic braces over that of metal braces.

Are Ceramic Braces better?

Generally, metal braces are better. They do the job quicker than do ceramic braces. The two significant differences besides cost are that ceramic braces are not as noticeable as are metal braces. They are also more fragile, so they take longer for the treatment process to work.

Which type of braces is better for you?

To answer that question requires that we look into your mouth, evaluate your bite and tooth position. Both metal braces and ceramic braces work well. One takes a little longer and costs a bit more. The end result can be the same. So part of the answer to that question is, which is better for you?

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Whitney M.
They didn’t rush to put braces on my son. They were up front about everything. The staff is always very friendly and easy to contact in case of an emergency.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the positive feedback. We are honored to serve each and every one of our patients!
Michael L.
Very comfortable environment and staff explains everything to both the patient and the parent. Can’t say enough good things about them.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you found our environment comfortable and that our staff took the time to explain everything clearly. Your positive feedback means a lot to us, and we’re here to support you whenever you need.
Jenifer G.
It was absolutely wonderful. Dr. Craig went above and beyond to make sure nothing was painful and they turned out wonderful.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive visit and that our team made your care comfortable and effective. Your feedback inspires us to continue providing exceptional service. We look forward to seeing you again!
Shelbey T.
I’m a pretty calm and low-maintenance person: I show up when I’m supposed to, I sit quietly, respond kindly, ask questions if I have any, etc. There are some places where it makes people uncomfortable and my experience is awkward, but that isn’t an issue here.

Staff are knowledgeable and kind, and they’re capable of appropriately communicating with a wide range of age groups. It’s a calm place, and I really appreciate that - not only for me but for any kiddos who might feel anxious about braces.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful feedback! We're delighted to hear that you found our environment calm and welcoming. It's wonderful to know that our team is effectively connecting with patients of all ages. Your insights motivate us to keep providing a supportive atmosphere for everyone. We look forward to your next visit!
Tina A.
I love the care I have been receiving at Craig and Streight Orthodontics!!! The Dr's are outstanding and the staff is amazing!!! I will recommend all of my friends and family for braces, invisalign, and/or whitening!!!
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D S.
They are all very attentive and accommodating! Dr. Straight is AWESOME!
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Currently, 3 generations under their care. Grandmother, mother, and two grandchildren. Very impressed.
Response from the owner:It’s fantastic to hear that multiple generations of your family are under our care. We truly appreciate your trust in us and are delighted to know that you’re impressed with our services. Thank you for sharing your experience!
Christine K.
I’ve had a great experience here and would highly recommend Craig & Streight to anyone!
Response from the owner:Hey Christine. We’re delighted to hear that you’ve had such a positive experience with us. Thank you for your recommendation; it truly means a lot to our team!
Tyler P.
Dr. Craig is wonderful! My son is now having his smile perfected by her. My teeth are still beautiful to this day, 21 years later, thanks to Dr. Craig! Her staff is wonderful and what an amazing facility. Thank you!
Response from the owner:Hi Tyler! We’re thrilled to hear about your positive experiences with Dr. Craig and our team. It’s wonderful to know that both you and your son are benefiting from our care. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback; it truly means a lot to us!
Dani S.
Dr Craig and her staff are always so kind and caring. They provided a way to communicate with them outside of regular hours in case of urgent matters and are quick to respond. I am also thrilled with the result and have the smile I have always wanted.
Response from the owner:Hi Dani. We’re glad you had such a positive experience during your recent appointment with our orthodontic practice. We are committed to serving our patients and your feedback helps us to continue to do so. Thanks!
Skyler K.
It was my first time here and the staff was extremely kind and informative. I went ahead and made the decision to get Invisalign here as an adult! Makayla was knowledgeable, kind and enjoyable to talk with, I feel confident in my Invisalign process. I recommend this place!
Kailee H.
They were so easy to work with. The staff was so amazing. I would recommend Craig and Streight to everyone.
Response from the owner:Thank you Kailee for your fantastic feedback! We're delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to serving you again!
Fernanda G.
I had a great experience, everyone was very nice, I’m excited to go back!
Response from the owner:Hey Fernanda. We’re glad you had such a positive experience during your recent appointment with our orthodontic practice. We are committed to serving our patients and your feedback helps us to continue to do so. Thanks!
Destiny M.
First experience with braces. The staff put us at ease and answered our questions
Response from the owner:Hi Destiny. Thanks for your positive review! It’s our goal to deliver a great patient experience every day.
Twyla C
Moved to OKC and called around a few places. Decided to go with Craig and Streight and glad I did. Myself and my son have braces. Everyone is super nice and we always have a great experience.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted to hear that you and your son are having a great experience with us. Our team is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment, and it’s fantastic to know you feel that way. If you ever have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out!

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706 24th Ave NW
Norman, OK 73069

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1476 N Mustang Rd
Mustang, OK 73064

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12100 S Western Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73170

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Norman, OK 73069

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Mustang, OK 73064
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