Metal braces are the long-established option and can treat almost everything: crowding, gaps, protruding teeth and bite problems. Brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected by an archwire that guides them into place, with regular adjustment visits.
Options
- Conventional: standard metal brackets with elastics you can change colour at each visit
- Self-ligating: brackets with a built-in clip that holds the wire, reducing friction
Steps
- 1 Records: photos, X-rays and a digital scan, then a treatment plan
- 2 Get your mouth ready: cleaning, fillings, extractions or wisdom teeth as planned
- 3 Brackets and wire fitted
- 4 Regular adjustments until the teeth are in position
- 5 Braces removed and retainers fitted
Living with braces
- Teeth feel tight or sore for 2-3 days after fitting or adjustments
- Avoid hard and sticky food: ice, nuts, toffee, sticky rice
- Brush carefully around every bracket; interdental brushes help
- Keep every appointment: missed visits lengthen treatment
Common questions
Will I need extractions?
Not always. It depends on the space in your jaw and your bite; we plan from X-rays and a model of your teeth first.
How old do you have to be?
Usually once the adult teeth are in, around 11-13. Adults can have braces too if their teeth and gums are healthy.
Can I continue treatment started elsewhere?
Yes. We assess your current appliance and teeth, then plan the rest. Message us for details.
