Metal dental braces: what they do, types and prices
In a world where dental innovation is advancing in leaps and bounds, it's only natural that fixed metal braces have been overshadowed by treatments which are faster, more discreet and modern. However, before dismissing them completely, it's worth exploring why these traditional orthodontic treatments are still an option for many patients.
While we're fans of clear aligners, in this article we will explain what traditional metal braces are, what they do for teeth and the types that exist. We will also delve into how fixed metal braces are put on, how to care for them and the average price.
Metal dental braces: what do they do?
So what do braces actually do? Metal dental braces, also known as traditional or fixed braces, are orthodontic devices that are used to move teeth according to an orthodontist’s instructions. Traditional metal braces are made of stainless steel and are attached to the teeth to guide their movement and correct dental alignment problems.
The braces consist of brackets which are bonded to the tooth’s surface with a special glue and are connected to each other with a wire, applying pressure on the teeth and guiding the necessary movements.
Types of metal braces: what are the different kinds that exist?
There are two types of metal braces: traditional and self-ligating. Below, we will explore in detail these two different kinds of metal braces.
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common. They are composed of three main parts: the metal brackets, the rubber bands (ligatures) and the wire that is placed through the brackets.
These rubber bands in traditional metal braces are used to attach the wire to the brackets and apply the necessary pressure to move teeth to the desired position.
Self-ligating metal braces
Self-ligating metal braces are a more modern version of traditional braces.
Unlike traditional braces, self-ligating metal braces do not require rubber bands to hold the wire in place. Instead, these braces have a locking mechanism that grasps the wire directly. This reduces friction and allows the teeth to move more efficiently. Self-ligating braces are usually metal, but can also be made of ceramic or plastic materials for a more aesthetic appearance.
How do metal braces work?
If you're wondering how metal braces work, you're in the right place. Metal braces work by using biomechanical principles to apply controlled pressure to the teeth. This process causes the bone tissue around the teeth to reshape, allowing for the teeth to move gradually into the desired position. As they move, the wire exerts force on the teeth, which guides them into proper alignment.
The process of moving the teeth is gradual and controlled to avoid excessive discomfort or any damage to the teeth. During treatment, patients should visit their orthodontist regularly for the wire to be adjusted and to ensure that progress is going as planned.
Occasionally, this type of orthodontic treatment requires intermaxillary elastics to correct certain bite problems.
How are braces put on?
Now that you know how metal braces work, we will go through how they are put on. Here we describe the basic steps involved in placing metal braces on teeth:
- Preparation: The first step in attaching metal braces is to clean and dry the surface of the teeth.
- Application of adhesive: A special adhesive is applied to the teeth’s surface where the traditional braces will be placed.
- Attaching brackets: Metal brackets are individually bonded to each tooth to which adhesive has been previously applied. A bracket is placed on the front surface of each tooth that needs repositioning.
- Placing wire: Once the brackets are in place, the wire is inserted through them and secured with ligatures or rubber bands, in the case of traditional metal braces.
- Initial adjustment: After the metal braces are in place, the orthodontist will make initial adjustments to ensure that the wire applies the correct amount of pressure in the desired direction.
- Patient instructions: The orthodontist will provide the patient with detailed instructions on how to care for the metal braces and teeth during treatment.
How metal braces are put on is the same technique as that used for other types of braces, such as those made from ceramic or sapphire.
Pros and cons of metal braces
We will now review the benefits and drawbacks of orthodontic treatments with metal braces.
Benefits of metal braces
Metal braces have several benefits which have made them the most common orthodontic treatment for many years:
- 1. Effectiveness
Traditional braces are highly effective in correcting a wide range of dental problems, from mild crowding or diastema to severe malocclusions.
- 2. Durability
Fixed metal braces are extremely durable and wear resistant. They can withstand chewing forces and the pressure exerted during treatment without significant damage.
- 3. Wide availability
Metal dental braces, being the most widely used in recent years, are offered in most orthodontic clinics.
- 4. Versatility
Orthodontics with metal braces is suitable for treating a variety of dental and bite problems. Orthodontists can customise treatments to each patient's specific needs, just as they can with clear aligners.
Cons of metal braces
While metal braces have many benefits, they also have some cons that are important to consider before opting for this type of orthodontic treatment:
- 1. Perceptibility
One of the cons of metal braces that worries patients the most is that they have a significant impact on dental aesthetics. Today there are equally effective and much more discreet invisible orthodontic alternatives.
- 2. Initial discomfort
It is common to experience discomfort at the beginning of treatment. The pressure exerted by the brackets and wire to move the teeth can cause pain and sores in the mouth.
- 3. Specific care instructions
Fixed metal braces require proper care and maintenance. Patients must learn to carefully clean around the braces in order to prevent plaque build-up and tooth decay.
- 4. Food restrictions
Another con of metal braces is that there are foods that must be avoided, such as any hard or sticky substances that can damage the braces. Patients should also avoid food such as hard-boiled sweets, nuts and chewing gum.
- 5. Regular clinic visits
Patients should schedule regular visits to see their orthodontist to make adjustments to the braces and ensure that treatment is progressing as planned.
Tips: caring for braces
Proper care of metal braces is essential to maintaining good dental health during orthodontic treatment. Here are some tips for caring for metal braces:
- 1. Rigorous oral hygiene
Patients should brush their teeth after every meal, using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. The use of dental floss and mouthwash can also help prevent the build-up of plaque and cavities.
- 2. Avoiding harmful foods
Patients should avoid hard, sticky and fibrous foods that could cause problems with the brackets or wire. At Impress we recommend treatments with clear aligners, which are removable and do not restrict what you can eat.
- 3. Follow-up visits
Patients should schedule and attend follow-up appointments with their orthodontist. These appointments are essential in order to make adjustments, replace elastic bands and monitor treatment progress.
- 4. Protection during sports
If the patient practises contact sports or activities that may put the fixed metal braces at risk, the use of mouthguards is recommended to avoid injury.
- 5. Be aware of chewing habits
Chewing habits, such as biting your nails or opening objects with your teeth, should be avoided to prevent damage to the brackets and wire.
Price of metals braces in the UK
The price of metal braces in the UK varies depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, duration, type of treatment and the clinic where it is carried out. If you are wondering how much traditional metal braces cost, the price ranges from £1,500 to £3,000.
On the other hand, self-ligating metal braces cost between £2,000 and £6,000.
Impress invisible orthodontics - the best alternative to traditional braces
Metal dental braces were one of the only orthodontic options for many years. As previously mentioned in the article, it has some cons, such as discomfort, impact on aesthetics and dietary restrictions. That is why, at Impress, we recommend orthodontic treatments with clear aligners, as they are removable, comfortable, easy to clean and almost imperceptible.
At Impress we specialise in this type of orthodontics. If you want to align your smile at the hand of expert orthodontists, contact us. We will inform you on the orthodontic treatments available at your nearest Impress clinic.
Find out about our prices and orthodontic treatments without obligation. You can contact us by making an appointment online, by phone at +44 20 3808 1072, or via WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions about metal braces
What are metal braces made of?
The material that metal braces are made of is mainly high-quality stainless steel. This material is highly resistant to corrosion, durable and safe for use in the oral cavity. Stainless steel has the ability to maintain its structural integrity over time, resisting the forces exerted during chewing and the adjustments made during orthodontic treatment. Its smooth surface also helps with oral hygiene by reducing the build-up of plaque and the possibility of cavities.
How do I clean metal braces?
If you want to remove food debris that has become stuck in your metal braces, here we explain how to clean them properly. First, rinse your mouth with warm water and then use an interdental brush, or one specific for braces. Finally, make sure to floss underneath the wire.
What are the foods to avoid with metal braces?
One of the cons of metal braces is having to avoid consuming foods that could damage them. Foods to avoid eating with metal braces include hard, sticky or fibrous foods, as they can damage braces or become stuck in them. Do not eat hard-boiled and sticky sweets, nuts, foods with pits and small seeds. You should also avoid foods that require tearing, such as sandwiches or corn on the cob, as they can dislodge the braces.
