ClearBracesvsMetalBraces:Cost,Look,andCare

Clear braces and metal braces work the same way, with brackets and a wire that guide teeth into place, and the main difference is how they look. Clear (ceramic) braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend in, while metal braces are more durable and at Bloom start at a lower fee.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) says neither option is automatically better for everyone. Here is how to compare them.

Side-by-Side Comparison

	Clear (ceramic) braces	Metal braces
Look	Tooth-colored brackets that blend with your teeth	Stainless steel brackets, more noticeable
Durability	Ceramic can be more brittle than metal	Highly durable
How they move teeth	Brackets and wire	Brackets and wire
Fee at Bloom	$4,000 to $5,500	$3,500 to $5,500

Appearance

The AAO says ceramic brackets are designed to blend with natural tooth color, which makes them a more discreet choice for adults, older teens, or anyone who feels self-conscious about metal. Metal braces are more noticeable when you smile or talk. Up close, ceramic brackets are still visible. They are much less obvious than metal at conversational distance.

Strength and Care

According to the AAO, metal braces may be recommended for some complex cases because they are highly durable. Ceramic brackets can work just as well for many patients but may need extra care, since the material can be more brittle. With either type, avoid hard and sticky foods and follow your orthodontist's cleaning instructions.

If you drink a lot of coffee or tea, ask about staining. Our guide on whether ceramic braces stain covers what changes color and what does not.

Cost

The AAO notes ceramic braces may cost more than metal in some cases because of the materials. At Bloom, clear braces are $4,000 to $5,500 and metal braces are $3,500 to $5,500. The tops of the two ranges match, so for many patients the fee difference is small. Your exact fee is set after an exam.

Which One Should You Choose?

Clear braces suit patients who want fixed braces with a less visible look and are happy to take a little extra care with the brackets.

Metal braces suit patients who want the most durable option, have certain complex needs, or want to start at the lowest fee.

Both choices work under an orthodontist's care. Dr. Thao Nguyen Vu and Dr. Judy Nguyen are board-certified orthodontists who offer both at our Long Beach and Garden Grove offices. Your free consultation includes X-rays, records, and a treatment simulation.

See how clear braces work on our clear braces page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do clear braces work as well as metal braces?

For many patients, yes. The AAO says both use brackets and wires to move teeth, and the right choice depends on your bite and goals.

Are clear braces more expensive than metal braces?

At Bloom, clear braces are $4,000 to $5,500 and metal braces are $3,500 to $5,500. Clear braces start a little higher.

Do clear braces break more easily?

Ceramic can be more brittle than metal, the AAO notes, so avoid very hard foods and follow your care instructions.

Are clear braces invisible?

No. They are tooth-colored and much less noticeable than metal, but the brackets can be seen up close.

Sources

• American Association of Orthodontists, What Are Ceramic Braces?
• American Association of Orthodontists, Braces
• Bloom fees (Dr. Thao Vu, 2026-10-12) and details: Clear braces

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Not sure which braces suit you? Book a free consultation in Long Beach or Garden Grove.