These are also known as ‘traditional’ braces, usually made of stainless steel alloy.
To this day they are still the gold standard, as they achieve tooth movement more rapidly and predictably than any other appliance system. They are usually the brackets of choice for kids and teens, since they can be tied in with coloured ‘donuts’.
Book in-person consultSince these braces are attached to the teeth, the doctor does not depend on the patient to wear them – they are always there, and they remain active as long as they are attached. As a result, the doctor has more control over the desired tooth movement.
Compliance is still needed, however. You need to watch what you eat to prevent the brackets from coming off, you need to maintain good oral hygiene and you need to cooperate with elastics (‘rubber bands’) and other removable appliances that may be required during your treatment.
At Oasis we want to work with you to determine which appliance system best suits your needs, all the while ensuring that the best outcome is achieved!
Metal brackets | Clear brackets | Aligners | |
Aesthetics | |||
Coloured elastics | Yes | Yes | No |
Required compliance | Moderate | Moderate | 100% |
Predictability of outcome | High | High | Variable |
Environmental impact | Mild; will eventually degrade | Mild; will eventually degrade | Severe; plastics do not degrade |
Risk of breakage | Minimal | May fracture | Can break and be lost |