What are fixed braces?
Fixed braces are the orthodontic treatment method commonly known as "brackets" or "braces". Small brackets are bonded to the front surface of the teeth, and a thin archwire is passed through them. Together, the wire and brackets apply a controlled force to the teeth; with this force the teeth gradually move towards the planned position. The appliance is not removed by the patient during treatment; the wires and additional parts are adjusted by the orthodontist at check-up appointments.
Fixed braces can be used for many orthodontic problems, such as crowding, gaps between teeth, a deep or open bite and protruding teeth. For the general framework of orthodontics, see our page what is orthodontics?
Metal and ceramic brackets
At the clinic, metal and ceramic bracket options are used for fixed treatment. Both types work on the same basic principle; the differences are mostly in appearance, material and care details.
| Feature | Metal brackets | Ceramic brackets |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Silver-coloured, noticeable on the teeth | Close to tooth colour, less eye-catching |
| Material | Stainless metal alloy | Ceramic-based, clear or tooth-coloured |
| Care | Standard brushing and interdental cleaning | The same care; the ties holding the bracket can be affected by coloured drinks |
| Who are they chosen for? | A wide range of use, depending on your orthodontist's assessment | Patients for whom appearance is a priority, in suitable cases |
Details on ceramic brackets are on our ceramic brackets (aesthetic braces) page. For a general comparison of types of braces, you can read the blog post on types of braces.
Who are fixed braces chosen for?
Fixed braces can be used for teenagers from adolescence onwards and for adults. Which method is chosen is decided by the alignment of the teeth, the jaw relationship, gum health and the patient's expectations together. Fixed treatment usually comes up in the following situations:
- Cases in which more extensive movements are planned, such as rotating teeth or moving them vertically,
- Patients for whom day-to-day compliance (putting the appliance in and taking it out) may be difficult,
- Treatments carried out together with appliances, elastics or mini-screws.
Your orthodontist decides whether the method is suitable after the examination and records. For information on the first step, see our first orthodontic examination page.
The treatment process step by step
- Examination: The teeth, jaw relationship and gums are examined; your concerns and expectations are discussed.
- Records: The necessary X-rays, intraoral and facial photographs and impressions or a digital scan are taken. The treatment plan is prepared from these records.
- Preparation: If there is decay, tartar or a gum problem, it is recommended that this is dealt with before treatment; see preparing for orthodontics.
- Fitting: The tooth surfaces are prepared, the brackets are placed on the teeth with a special adhesive and the first wire is fitted. The procedure is usually completed in a single session.
- Check-ups: Wire changes and adjustments are made at intervals set by your orthodontist; elastics are added if needed.
- Removal: When the planned position is reached, the brackets are removed and the tooth surfaces are cleaned and polished.
- Retention: A fixed and/or removable retainer is used to keep the teeth in their new position. Details: retention treatment and retainer guide.
Treatment time varies from case to case; for the factors that affect it, see our article how long does orthodontic treatment take?
After fitting and daily life
In the first days there may be a feeling of pressure on the teeth and rubbing on the lips or cheeks; for most patients this eases within a few days. Details about the adjustment period are on our page the first weeks after getting braces. Because hard and sticky foods can knock brackets loose, some changes to your diet are needed; see eating with braces.
Care
Food debris and plaque build up easily around brackets. Brushing after every meal and using an interdental brush and a floss threader help reduce the risk of gum inflammation and white spots. For detailed care advice, you can read our article on oral and dental care with fixed braces.
How they differ from clear aligners
Fixed braces and clear aligners are two methods that work in different ways. With fixed braces the appliance is in the mouth all the time and compliance is largely under the orthodontist's control; with clear aligners, the aligners are taken out for eating and brushing, which requires consistently keeping to the daily wear time. There are also differences in appearance, eating, oral hygiene and check-up routine. Neither method is on its own more suitable for every case; the choice is made according to the examination findings. For a detailed, balanced comparison, see our page clear aligners or braces?
Emergencies
Situations such as a bracket coming off, a wire poking or a part breaking off are mostly not urgent, but the clinic should be informed. For guidance on what to do, see our orthodontic emergencies page. In a medical emergency such as difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath or a serious injury, call 112.
Frequently asked questions
Does fitting fixed braces hurt?
Bonding the brackets is usually a procedure that does not require numbing. In the few days after fitting, pressure or tenderness may be felt in the teeth; in most cases this feeling eases over time.
How long does treatment take?
The duration varies with the type of problem, how far the teeth need to move and attending check-ups regularly. Your orthodontist explains your personal timeline together with the treatment plan.
How often do I need to come for check-ups?
Your orthodontist sets the check-up interval according to the stage of treatment. Missed appointments can lengthen treatment.
Can adults have fixed braces?
Yes; fixed treatment can also be done for adults whose teeth and gums are healthy enough. Suitability is decided after the examination.
For questions, you can call 0312 911 60 36 or use the form on the contact page.
This page is for general information only; diagnosis and the treatment plan are determined by an examination and your orthodontist's assessment.
