What Traditional Braces Can Address
Traditional braces are generally considered for a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including more complex tooth movements. They aren't automatically the right option for every case, and whether they specifically apply to your own teeth is an assessment question, not something this page decides.
How Traditional Braces Work in General Terms
Brackets are bonded to the front of your teeth, and a wire is threaded through them and adjusted periodically by your clinician. This gradually applies gentle, ongoing pressure that moves your teeth over the course of treatment. Because the brace stays attached, there's no day-to-day decision about whether to wear it — it's working continuously.
How Traditional Braces Differ from Clear Aligners
Traditional braces are fixed and remain attached throughout treatment, unlike clear aligners, which are removable. This means you don't need to remember to wear them, but it also means they can't be taken out for eating or cleaning. Traditional braces are not presented here as producing better or more reliable results than aligners — which option suits your own case is a clinical decision. See Clear Aligners for that alternative.
Assessment and Planning
Assessment generally includes an examination of your teeth and bite, often supported by X-rays or impressions, to plan how your teeth need to move and confirm whether traditional braces are an appropriate route for your own case.
What to Expect in General Terms
Once fitted, traditional braces generally need periodic appointments so your clinician can check progress and adjust the wire. The overall length of treatment and the number of adjustment appointments depend entirely on your individual case and aren't stated in general terms here.
Oral Hygiene During Treatment
Because the brackets and wires can trap food and make plaque more likely to build up, cleaning your teeth thoroughly matters more than usual during treatment with fixed braces. Your clinician would generally give specific advice on brushing technique and any tools that might help, along with guidance on foods to be cautious with.
Considerations and Limitations
As with aligners, traditional braces aren't automatically suitable for every case, and outcomes vary between individuals. Some discomfort after fitting or adjustment is a general consideration, and keeping up with oral hygiene is particularly important while the brace is in place. No specific treatment duration is promised here.
Retention After Treatment
Once your braces are removed, keeping your teeth in their new position is a separate, important stage, generally involving a retainer. The specific type of retainer and how long it's needed is a decision made with your clinician, not something set out in general terms on this page.
Related Treatments
For a removable alternative, see Clear Aligners.
General information only — every treatment decision follows an individual clinical assessment.