Types of braces compared
Page updated October 14, 2026. Medically reviewed by 
Dr. Abraham Thomas and Dr. Jennifer Loucks-Buren.
There are four main types of braces: metal, ceramic, lingual and clear aligners, plus self-ligating brackets, which can be metal or ceramic. They differ in how visible they are, what they can fix, how much daily effort they need and what they cost, from $3,000 for metal braces to $10,000 for lingual braces.
The types compared
| Type | Typical price | Visibility | Removable | Best known for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal | $3,000 to $7,000 | Visible | No | Most common, durable, typically most affordable |
| Ceramic (clear) | $4,000 to $8,000 | Less noticeable | No | Discreet fixed braces; can stain |
| Lingual | $8,000 to $10,000 | Hidden behind the teeth | No | Custom-made; usually most expensive |
| Clear aligners | $4,000 to $7,000 | Nearly invisible | Yes, worn 22+ hours a day | Removable; light to moderate cases |
Metal braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type, known for durability and effectiveness: high-grade stainless steel brackets attached to each tooth and connected by a wire (AAO). They're visible, treat a wide range of orthodontic problems and are typically the more affordable option (AAO). Tiny elastic ties hold the wire; you can choose clear ties to make them less noticeable or bright colors (Cleveland Clinic). Price range: $3,000 to $7,000 (CareCredit, 2022). More: metal braces cost.
Ceramic (clear) braces
Ceramic braces work like metal ones but use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in with the teeth (AAO). They're less noticeable but more fragile, more prone to staining, and usually more expensive because of the materials (Cleveland Clinic). Treatment can take a little longer: 12 to 36 months versus an average of 20 for metal (Cleveland Clinic). Price range: $4,000 to $8,000. More: ceramic braces cost.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces are custom-made to fit on the tongue side of the teeth, so they're invisible from the outside (AAO). They can be harder to clean and uncomfortable at first, and are usually the most expensive option (AAO). Speech is often affected at first; Healthline cites research finding it can be different for a month or more (Healthline). Price range: $8,000 to $10,000. More: lingual braces cost.
Clear aligners (Invisalign and others)
Clear aligners are a series of nearly invisible plastic trays that gradually move the teeth; you switch to a new set about every 2 weeks (Cleveland Clinic). They come out to eat and clean, but must be worn at least 22 hours a day (AAO), and they typically treat light to moderate alignment problems (AAO). Invisalign and ClearCorrect are two brands (Cleveland Clinic). Price range: $4,000 to $7,000. More: Invisalign cost and Invisalign vs braces.
Self-ligating braces
Self-ligating braces look similar to traditional braces, but the brackets have built-in clips or doors to hold the wire instead of elastic ties (AAO). The AAO says this minimizes friction and generally allows longer gaps between appointments; the brackets can be stainless steel or ceramic (AAO). Damon is one well-known brand. We haven't found a reliable published price range, so ask your orthodontist to price them against standard braces.
Pros and cons at a glance
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Metal | Lowest price range; durable; treats a wide range of problems (AAO) | Most visible; food restrictions (AAO) |
| Ceramic | Much less noticeable; as effective as metal (Cleveland Clinic) | More fragile; stains; usually costs more (Cleveland Clinic) |
| Lingual | Virtually invisible from the front (AAO) | Usually most expensive; harder to clean; uncomfortable at first (AAO); affects speech at first (Healthline) |
| Clear aligners | Nearly invisible; removable for eating and cleaning (AAO) | Must be worn 22+ hours a day; easy to lose; light to moderate cases (AAO) (AAO) |
| Self-ligating | Less friction; generally longer gaps between visits (AAO) | No reliable published price; usually no colored ties |
How long each type takes
| Type | Typical treatment time |
|---|---|
| Braces in general | 12 to 24 months for most people (AAO); about 2 years on average (Cleveland Clinic) |
| Metal braces | 20 months on average (Cleveland Clinic) |
| Ceramic braces | 12 to 36 months (Cleveland Clinic) |
| Clear aligners | Up to 9 months for a few slightly crooked teeth; longer for more serious problems (Cleveland Clinic) |
Monthly cost by type
| Type | Low end | High end |
|---|---|---|
| Metal | $104 a month | $271 a month |
| Ceramic | $146 a month | $312 a month |
| Clear aligners | $146 a month | $271 a month |
| Lingual | $312 a month | $396 a month |
How insurance treats each type
A plan with orthodontic benefits pays up to its lifetime maximum whatever type you choose, but some plans pay only what metal braces would cost and leave you the difference for ceramic, lingual or aligners (Healthline). Others, like Delta Dental of Virginia, cover Invisalign the same as braces (Delta Dental of Virginia). Ask before you choose; see dental insurance for braces.
Which type to ask about, by situation
| If you... | Ask about |
|---|---|
| want the lowest price | Metal braces, the lowest range at $3,000 to $7,000 (CareCredit) |
| want fixed braces that are less noticeable | Ceramic braces (AAO) |
| don't want anyone to see your braces | Lingual braces or clear aligners (AAO) |
| have a severe bite problem | Braces, which treat a wider range of cases than aligners (AAO) |
| won't reliably wear something 22 hours a day | Fixed braces rather than aligners (AAO) |
| play contact sports or an instrument | Ask your orthodontist which option suits you; mouthguards and practice routines differ by type |
Whatever you choose, cost depends more on your case than on the type alone: the AAO names type, complexity and duration of treatment as the main drivers of price (AAO). Get a written quote for at least two options for the same case, and check what each includes, such as records, adjustment visits, repairs and retainers.
Other appliances you may hear about
- Palate expanders widen a narrow upper jaw, mostly in growing children (Cleveland Clinic).
- Headgear and expanders may be added to braces depending on your needs (AAO).
- Spacers make room for metal bands on the back teeth before braces go on (AAO).
- Elastics (rubber bands) between the jaws help move teeth and correct the bite during certain stages (AAO).
How to choose
The AAO's view is that no appliance is inherently better than another: the right one depends on the diagnosis, the goals of treatment and your lifestyle, and the skill of the person treating you matters far more than the appliance (AAO). In practice, people weigh four things (all types move teeth the same basic way; see how braces work):
- What your case needs. Braces treat a wider range of problems, including severe bites; aligners typically treat light to moderate ones (AAO).
- Visibility. Metal is most visible, then ceramic, then aligners, then lingual braces.
- Daily effort. Fixed braces work without you doing anything; aligners only work if you wear them (AAO).
- Price. See the ranges above, or estimate yours with the braces cost calculator.
Treatment time also varies: most people wear braces for 12 to 24 months (AAO), and everyone needs a retainer afterward (AAO).
Questions people ask
What are the different types of braces?
Metal braces, ceramic (clear) braces, lingual braces behind the teeth, and clear aligners such as Invisalign. Self-ligating brackets, which hold the wire without elastic ties, can be metal or ceramic (AAO).
Which type of braces is cheapest?
Metal braces, at $3,000 to $7,000 (CareCredit, 2022). Lingual braces are usually the most expensive, at $8,000 to $10,000.
Which braces are least noticeable?
Lingual braces, mounted behind the teeth, are virtually invisible from the front, and clear aligners are nearly invisible (AAO). Ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal.
Which type of braces works fastest?
Braces tend to work faster than clear aligners (AAO), and Cleveland Clinic says ceramic braces may take slightly longer than metal because the brackets aren't as strong.
Are metal braces still the best?
No type is inherently better: the right one depends on your diagnosis, goals and lifestyle (AAO). Metal braces are the most common and treat a wide range of problems.
What are clear braces?
Usually ceramic braces: brackets and wires like metal braces, but tooth-colored so they're less noticeable (Cleveland Clinic). Clear aligners are a different, removable treatment.
What are self-ligating braces?
Braces whose brackets have built-in clips or doors to hold the wire instead of elastic ties. The AAO says this minimizes friction and generally allows longer gaps between appointments.
Which braces are best for adults?
Many adults prefer discreet options such as clear aligners, ceramic brackets or lingual braces (AAO), but the right choice depends on what your bite needs and your budget.
Do braces or aligners work better?
Neither is better for everyone. Braces treat a wider range of problems and tend to work faster; aligners are less visible but typically treat light to moderate cases (AAO).
Sources
- Average costs of orthodontics procedures by service (CareCredit data). Becker's Dental Review. October 21, 2022.
- Average cost of orthodontic treatments in 2024 (CareCredit data). Becker's Dental Review. September 25, 2024.
- How much do braces cost? Factors, insurance and savings. American Association of Orthodontists. Accessed October 12, 2026.
- How do braces work?. American Association of Orthodontists. Accessed October 12, 2026.
- Ceramic braces: a less noticeable way to straighten your smile. American Association of Orthodontists. Accessed October 12, 2026.
- Braces vs. clear aligners: which treatment is best for you?. American Association of Orthodontists. Accessed October 12, 2026.
- Glossary of orthodontic terms. American Association of Orthodontists. Accessed October 13, 2026.
- Braces: types and how they work. Cleveland Clinic, medically reviewed. Last updated January 13, 2023.
- Clear braces: types, benefits and how to clean. Cleveland Clinic, medically reviewed. Last updated July 25, 2022.
- Clear aligners: purpose and types. Cleveland Clinic, medically reviewed. Last updated September 23, 2026.
- Palate expander: uses, types and adjusting. Cleveland Clinic, medically reviewed. Last updated June 30, 2022.
- Lingual braces: the upside and downside of braces on the back side. Healthline, medically reviewed by Christine Frank, DDS. June 17, 2019.
Figures are national averages or ranges from these sources. Estimates from our calculator are a model, explained on how we get our numbers.