Traditional aesthetic braces

If you need fixed orthodontic treatment but would prefer brackets that are less noticeable than traditional metal ones, traditional aesthetic braces may be an option to discuss with an orthodontist. Through ZagrebMed, you can arrange an orthodontic assessment and receive an individual treatment plan based on your teeth, bite and treatment goals.

Key facts

• Type: Fixed orthodontic appliance
• Appearance: Less noticeable brackets that may be clear or tooth-colored, depending on the material
• Suitable for: Selected cases of crowding, spacing and bite irregularities
• How it works: Brackets are connected with an orthodontic wire and conventional ligatures
• Follow-up: Regular orthodontic appointments are required during treatment
• Price: €2,800

What are traditional aesthetic braces?

Traditional aesthetic braces are a fixed orthodontic appliance designed for patients who need the control of fixed braces but prefer a less noticeable appearance. Individual brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected by an orthodontic wire. Small ligatures hold the wire within the bracket slots and are replaced or adjusted during follow-up appointments as required.

Compared with conventional metal braces, the main difference is the appearance of the brackets. Depending on the material used, they may be transparent or closer to the natural shade of the teeth. The orthodontic wire, ligatures and other components may still be visible, so aesthetic braces are best described as less noticeable rather than invisible.

When can aesthetic fixed braces be considered?

Fixed orthodontic treatment can be used for a broad range of tooth-position and bite problems. These may include crowded and misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, selected bite problems such as deep bite, and cases involving protruding front teeth and increased overjet.

Traditional aesthetic braces may be considered by adolescents and adults who need a fixed appliance and would prefer brackets that attract less visual attention. In younger patients, the orthodontist also takes the stage of dental development into account.

The choice of appliance depends on the orthodontic diagnosis, the position of the teeth, bite relationships, oral health and the goals of treatment. Aesthetic braces are one treatment option rather than a universal solution, and the orthodontist determines whether they are suitable for the individual case.

How are they different from metal braces, self-ligating braces and clear aligners?

Traditional aesthetic braces and conventional metal braces both remain attached to the teeth and use an orthodontic wire to guide tooth movement. The main difference is that aesthetic brackets are designed to be less visually prominent.

Traditional aesthetic braces are also different from aesthetic self-ligating braces. With a conventional system, small ligatures hold the orthodontic wire in the bracket slots. Self-ligating brackets use an integrated clip or closing mechanism instead.

Clear aligners use a different treatment approach. They are removable trays that are worn according to a prescribed schedule, while fixed braces remain bonded to the teeth throughout active treatment. The choice between these options depends on the clinical findings, treatment objectives and patient preferences.

Assessment before treatment

Treatment planning begins with an orthodontic examination. The orthodontist assesses the teeth, bite and supporting tissues and may use photographs, digital scans or impressions and radiographic imaging when clinically indicated.

These records help determine the position of the teeth, available space, bite relationships and the type of tooth movement that may be required. The orthodontist can then recommend the most appropriate treatment approach and explain the expected course of treatment.

Good oral health is important before fixed braces are fitted. Active tooth decay, gum inflammation or other dental problems may need treatment first. Previous dental trauma, restorations and relevant dental history should also be discussed during the assessment.

In patients with a deep bite, the orthodontist additionally evaluates whether teeth in the opposite arch could contact the brackets. This is important when positioning the appliance and planning safe tooth movement.

How does treatment work?

1. Orthodontic assessment and planning

The orthodontist evaluates the teeth and bite, reviews diagnostic records and defines individual treatment objectives. The most appropriate appliance is then selected. Other treatment options can also be explored within orthodontics.

2. Preparing the teeth

Before fitting the appliance, any dental or gum problems that could interfere with treatment are addressed when necessary. The tooth surfaces are then prepared for bonding the brackets.

3. Fitting the brackets and wire

The aesthetic brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected with an orthodontic wire. Conventional ligatures hold the wire within the bracket slots. Depending on the treatment plan, elastics or other orthodontic components may also be introduced.

4. Regular follow-up appointments

Fixed orthodontic treatment requires regular appointments. During these visits, the orthodontist monitors tooth movement and bite development, checks the condition of the appliance and makes the necessary adjustments. Wires and ligatures may be changed during treatment as required.

5. Removal and retention

When the planned tooth movements have been completed, the brackets are removed and the teeth are cleaned. A retention plan is then introduced to help maintain the new tooth positions. Retention is an important part of orthodontic treatment because teeth can move after active treatment has finished.

Living with aesthetic fixed braces

Good oral hygiene is particularly important during fixed orthodontic treatment. Brackets and wires create additional areas where plaque and food debris can accumulate. Careful brushing around each bracket, cleaning between the teeth and following the orthodontist's hygiene instructions help protect the teeth and gums.

If plaque remains around the brackets for prolonged periods, the risk of enamel demineralization, white spots, tooth decay and gum inflammation increases. Regular dental check-ups should therefore continue during orthodontic treatment.

Hard, sticky and very chewy foods can place unnecessary force on the appliance and may damage brackets or wires. Some aesthetic bracket materials may also be more susceptible to breakage than metal brackets, so following dietary recommendations is important.

Clear or lightly colored ligatures can sometimes become discolored by strongly pigmented foods, drinks or smoking. Their appearance can be refreshed when the ligatures are replaced during orthodontic controls.

What if a bracket comes loose?

Mild tenderness or a feeling of pressure is common after braces are fitted and following some adjustments. Brackets and wires can also temporarily irritate the lips or cheeks while the mouth adapts.

If a bracket becomes detached, a wire breaks or part of the appliance causes persistent irritation, contact the treating practice for advice. The orthodontist can determine whether the appliance needs to be repaired before the next planned appointment.

Price

The price for traditional aesthetic braces is €2,800. The orthodontist creates an individual treatment plan after the initial assessment based on the position of the teeth, bite and treatment goals.

Results and realistic expectations

The aim of treatment is defined individually and may include improving tooth alignment, closing or managing spaces and correcting selected bite relationships. The extent of correction depends on the original orthodontic problem, biological response and the treatment plan.

Traditional aesthetic braces should not be viewed as automatically faster, more effective or more comfortable than metal braces. Different appliance systems have different characteristics, and the best option depends on the individual clinical situation.

As with other orthodontic treatments, possible risks include temporary tenderness and soft-tissue irritation, enamel demineralization or tooth decay when oral hygiene is inadequate, gum problems, possible root resorption, appliance damage and movement of the teeth after active treatment. Following the prescribed retention plan helps maintain the achieved result.

Planning orthodontic treatment in Zagreb

Fixed orthodontic treatment requires regular in-person follow-up appointments. Patients traveling to Zagreb from abroad should therefore consider the full treatment schedule rather than only the initial fitting of the appliance. The orthodontist determines how frequently controls are required based on the individual treatment plan.

If you are considering traditional aesthetic braces, you can send ZagrebMed your inquiry together with any recent dental or orthodontic records you already have. ZagrebMed can help organize the initial assessment and practical steps, while the orthodontist is responsible for diagnosis, treatment planning and clinical care.