Traditional metal braces

If you are considering fixed braces because your teeth are crowded, spaced or do not meet as you would like, ZagrebMed can help you organize the first orthodontic assessment and clarify the practical steps before treatment begins. Traditional metal braces are a fixed orthodontic appliance made of metal brackets bonded to the teeth, an orthodontic archwire running through the brackets and ligatures that hold the wire in place. The orthodontist uses this system to apply controlled forces and gradually guide teeth toward planned positions.

Traditional metal braces are one of several options within orthodontic treatment. They are not removable by the patient, so the appliance works continuously throughout active treatment. Successful treatment still depends on good oral hygiene, regular orthodontic appointments and following the orthodontist's instructions.

Key facts about traditional metal braces

• Type: fixed orthodontic appliance
• Main components: metal brackets, orthodontic archwire and ligatures
• Common reasons for treatment: crowded teeth, gaps between teeth and selected bite irregularities
• Removable by the patient: no
• Follow-up: regular orthodontic controls are required during treatment
• After treatment: retention is usually required to help maintain the corrected tooth positions
• Price: EUR 2,400

Why patients consider traditional metal braces

This method may be considered for a range of orthodontic problems. These include crowded and misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth and selected bite problems such as a deep bite or protruding front teeth and increased overjet. Whether fixed metal braces are appropriate depends on the exact dental and jaw relationship, oral health, age and stage of dental development, treatment goals and the findings of the orthodontic assessment.

Children, adolescents and adults can all be assessed for fixed orthodontic treatment. In growing patients, the orthodontist also considers the development of the permanent dentition and jaw growth. In adults, periodontal health, existing restorations, missing teeth and previous dental treatment can influence treatment planning. Fixed braces can move teeth, but they cannot by themselves correct every skeletal discrepancy between the jaws. More complex problems may require a different or combined treatment approach.

How traditional metal braces differ from other options

With conventional metal braces, the archwire is held inside each bracket by small elastic or metal ligatures. Self-ligating metal braces work differently because each bracket has its own built-in clip or door that retains the wire. This technical difference does not mean that one system is universally better. The orthodontist selects the appliance according to the clinical situation, planned tooth movements, treatment objectives and patient preferences.

Esthetic fixed braces generally use ceramic or tooth-colored brackets to make the appliance less visible. Clear aligners are different again because they use a sequence of removable transparent trays instead of brackets and wires. Aligners must be worn according to instructions and are not automatically the preferred option for every type of tooth movement or bite problem.

Assessment before braces are fitted

The first step is usually an orthodontic examination. The orthodontist evaluates tooth position, the bite, the gums and supporting tissues, and the relationship between the upper and lower dental arches. Depending on the case, diagnostic records may include clinical photographs, digital scans or conventional impressions and appropriate dental or jaw imaging.

Good oral health is important before active treatment begins. Existing tooth decay, significant gum inflammation or other dental problems may need to be treated first. The orthodontist then develops an individual treatment plan and explains the proposed appliance, treatment objectives, alternatives, expected course and relevant limitations.

How treatment usually progresses

1. Placement of brackets and archwire

Metal brackets are bonded to the teeth and the orthodontic wire is placed through the bracket slots. Ligatures hold the wire in place. The selected archwire applies controlled forces that begin moving the teeth according to the treatment plan.

2. Initial adjustment period

Teeth can feel tender or sensitive after the appliance is fitted and after some adjustments. Brackets may also initially irritate the lips or cheeks. This usually improves as the mouth adapts, but discomfort varies from person to person and treatment should not be described as completely painless.

3. Regular orthodontic controls

The orthodontist reviews tooth movement and adjusts the appliance as treatment progresses. Wires, ligatures or other components may be changed when required. Elastics or additional orthodontic elements are used only when they are indicated for the individual treatment plan. The interval between visits is determined by the orthodontist rather than being identical for every patient.

4. Removal and retention

When the planned active tooth movement has been completed, the fixed appliance is removed. Retention then becomes an essential part of care because teeth can move again after treatment. The orthodontist determines whether removable retainers, fixed retainers or a combination is appropriate and how they should be used.

Living with fixed metal braces

Because the appliance remains attached to the teeth throughout active treatment, cleaning requires additional attention. Plaque and food can collect around brackets and under wires, so careful brushing and cleaning between teeth and around the appliance are important. The orthodontic team can recommend suitable brushes, interdental cleaning methods and fluoride care based on individual needs.

Hard, sticky and very chewy foods can damage brackets or bend wires and may need to be avoided or modified. If a bracket becomes detached, a wire starts to protrude or another component causes persistent irritation, the orthodontic office should be contacted. Depending on the problem, the orthodontist may recommend an earlier appointment rather than waiting until the next routine control.

Results, limitations and possible risks

The aim of treatment is controlled improvement of tooth position and, where possible, the bite according to an individualized plan. The amount and type of correction that can be achieved varies between patients. Treatment duration also varies according to the starting position of the teeth, the complexity of the case, biological response and adherence to appointments and instructions.

Possible issues during orthodontic treatment include temporary tenderness and irritation, appliance breakage, gum inflammation and an increased risk of enamel demineralization or tooth decay when oral hygiene is inadequate. Orthodontic tooth movement can also be associated with root resorption. Small changes are generally of limited clinical importance, while more extensive root resorption is less common. After treatment, teeth have a tendency to move, which is why retention and follow-up are important.

Price of traditional metal braces

The price for traditional metal braces through ZagrebMed is EUR 2,400.

The exact scope of treatment is confirmed before treatment begins. This includes clarifying whether the price covers one or both dental arches and whether diagnostic records, imaging, follow-up visits, repairs, removal of the appliance and retainers are included. ZagrebMed can help clarify these practical details before you decide to start treatment.

Planning treatment if you are traveling to Zagreb

Traditional fixed braces require ongoing orthodontic controls, so patients traveling from another country should plan the entire treatment pathway rather than only the first visit. Before starting, it is useful to understand how frequently you are likely to need to return, what to do if a bracket or wire causes a problem while you are abroad, and how retention will be managed after the appliance is removed.

If you would like to explore traditional metal braces in Croatia, send ZagrebMed a short description of your main concern, any previous orthodontic or dental records and information about when you could travel. ZagrebMed can help organize the initial assessment, clarify the treatment scope and practical requirements, and help you understand the next steps before treatment begins. Book without waiting by sending an inquiry through ZagrebMed.