You probably wouldn’t be surprised to learn that a recent study showed people find metal braces the least attractive of all teeth-straightening appliances. But for orthodontists, it creates a paradox: stainless steel braces are the least aesthetically pleasing, but their results are usually the most aesthetically pleasing.
Researchers at Ohio State University ranked different orthodontic appliances on a numeric scale representing “extremely unattractive” to “extremely attractive.” Metal braces scored the lowest, followed by clear or tooth-colored ceramic braces. Ranking highest were lingual braces (which are unseen because they are behind the teeth), with clear tooth trays like Invisalign coming in a close second.
Attractiveness versus effectiveness is not the only discrepancy. Orthodontists also find that the most aesthetically pleasing devices are the least durable and most difficult for dentists to manipulate.
If you are considering one of these options, speak at length with your orthodontist about the benefits and disadvantages of each one as they apply to your lifestyle.
Tell us about your experience with one of these kinds of orthodontic devices by leaving a comment below.
