Fixed Braces

About Fixed Braces

Forget everything you knew about traditional fixed braces—today, they’re cooler and more modern than ever. Fixed braces aim to improve the alignment of specific teeth or the position of the upper and lower jaws. These braces remain in place until the end of the treatment, making it essential to keep your teeth and mouth clean throughout this period.

After the active treatment phase (when wearing the braces), you’ll enter a retention phase using a device called a retainer, which prevents teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

Fixed braces have many advantages, including greater effectiveness than “invisible” systems like Invisalign®. Fixed braces offer more control, resulting in faster and more effective progress. The brackets used in fixed braces can now be white ceramic, making them discreet.

Treatment with Fixed Braces

Traditional fixed braces are often more affordable and convenient than other types, especially for correcting severe malocclusion (incorrect bite). In fixed braces, individual brackets are bonded to each tooth and connected by a thin wire. They work by applying continuous pressure to the teeth, which an orthodontist must adjust regularly to maintain proper force.

Additional elastic bands can be added to increase pulling or pushing effects, helping to realign a crooked tooth or adjust the jaw position. You can attach and remove the elastics between two brackets on your own.

Advantages of Fixed Braces

Fixed braces can reposition teeth in multiple directions, allowing for comprehensive alignment across the entire dental arch.

Because fixed braces are highly adjustable, they offer more controlled, precise movements than removable braces. The increased precision of fixed braces leads to more stable results, helping teeth stay in their new positions. Unlike removable braces, fixed braces stay in place, so there’s no worry about when or if to wear them, and they won’t dislodge during sleep or physical activity.

Removable braces can sometimes affect speech, while fixed braces typically don’t.

Types of Fixed Braces

DENT ESTET offers several types of fixed braces, each with unique characteristics. Based on the materials used, our orthodontic specialists recommend:

• Metal Braces – The most structurally durable but also the most visible;
• Ceramic Braces – As effective as metal braces but less noticeable, though they may stain if not properly maintained;
• Sapphire Braces – Among the least visible options for front-facing braces, though they are generally more expensive and prone to damage;
• Incognito Braces – An advanced type of fixed brace placed on the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front and allowing patients to go about daily routines discreetly.

Life with Fixed Braces

In the first few days after the braces are applied, your teeth may feel sensitive, especially when pressure is applied. This is normal, and discomfort generally subsides within seven days. Mild pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can help.

Braces can initially irritate soft tissues (lips and cheeks), causing small sores that usually heal within two weeks. Warm salt water rinses can help ease any discomfort, and you can use wax or silicone on brackets to cushion the mouth. Over time, your mouth will adjust to the braces.

Keeping your teeth, gums, and braces clean is essential. Brush 2–3 times daily, spending at least 3 minutes each time. Improper oral hygiene can damage teeth and gums, and may even lead to early treatment termination if oral hygiene is not maintained to a high standard.

Your orthodontist or dental assistant will demonstrate proper brushing techniques. Remember to brush along the outer surfaces of the teeth with a regular toothbrush and use interdental brushes to clean inside the brackets. Use a daily fluoride mouthwash as well.

Decalcification spots may occur if you frequently consume sugary or acidic foods and drinks, or neglect proper brushing.

Handle your braces carefully—avoid hard or sticky foods such as caramel, candy, popcorn, or gum, as these can damage brackets and prolong treatment by necessitating additional visits. Foods like apples, hard bread, and crispy pizza should be cut into small pieces before eating, or avoided entirely.

You’ll need regular clinic visits for your orthodontist to adjust the braces, and continue seeing your general dentist for routine check-ups during treatment.

Retention Phase

Once your teeth are properly aligned, you’ll enter the retention phase. This involves wearing a retainer to keep the teeth in their new positions. Without a retainer, teeth can shift back to their initial alignment. Unlike braces, a retainer does not exert pressure to move teeth—it simply holds them in place.

Fixed retainers are usually thin wires bonded to the backs of the teeth and remain in place for several years. Some retainers are fitted only to the front teeth, while others extend to the back. Removable retainers (trays) look like removable braces and are worn at night.

Discuss with your orthodontist which type of retainer is best suited for you and the recommended duration for wearing it.

Visiting the Orthodontist

Choosing the best teeth-straightening option for yourself can be challenging. At your first visit to DENT ESTET, we’ll provide valuable information about braces, carefully assessing your teeth’s alignment, their relationship, and your bite type. X-rays and impressions will be taken to determine the best course of treatment for you.

At DENT ESTET, we take the time to explain each type of treatment and answer any questions you may have about fixed braces and retainers. Our goal is to ensure your orthodontic treatment yields the best possible results.