Everything You Need to Know about Fixed Braces Before Choosing Traditional Braces
Are you considering fixing your smile or aligning your bite but overwhelmed with the options? While clear aligners and invisible braces are trending, fixed braces remain the gold standard in orthodontics. This complete guide walks you through everything—from how they work to what you can expect during treatment—alongside expert insights from Balsam Clinics, your trusted partner in dental care.
What Are Fixed Braces?
Fixed braces are orthodontic appliances that consist of metal brackets bonded to each tooth and connected by a metal wire. These braces apply continuous pressure over time to gradually move teeth into the desired position. Unlike removable aligners, fixed braces are not taken out during treatment.
Components of Fixed Braces:
- Brackets: Small square-shaped attachments fixed to each tooth.
- Archwire: A metal wire connecting all the brackets.
- Ligatures: Elastic bands that hold the archwire to the brackets.
- Bands (in some cases): Metal rings cemented to back teeth for added support.
Why Choose Fixed Braces?
While modern alternatives are available, fixed braces continue to dominate for one simple reason—efficiency. Fixed braces are highly effective in treating even the most complex dental issues.
Benefits:
- Suitable for complex malocclusions (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Often faster results compared to clear aligners
- No need for patient compliance in wearing the appliance
- Durable and less likely to be lost or broken
Balsam Clinics offers customized fixed braces treatment tailored to your dental anatomy and cosmetic preferences, including traditional metal and ceramic braces.
Who Needs Fixed Braces?
You may be a good candidate for fixed braces if you have:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Bite issues (open bite, overbite, crossbite)
- Jaw misalignment
- Impacted teeth
A thorough orthodontic assessment at Balsam Clinics includes X-rays, photographs, and digital impressions to determine the ideal treatment plan.
Types of Fixed Braces
At Balsam Clinics, patients can choose between multiple types of fixed braces:
1. Metal Braces
Most common and affordable option
Made of stainless steel
Very durable and efficient
Can be decorated with colored bands for personalization
2. Ceramic B.races
Tooth-colored brackets for a less noticeable appearance
Slightly more fragile and expensive than metal
Ideal for teens and adults seeking discreet treatment
3. Self-Ligating Braces
Don’t require elastic bands
Brackets have clips to hold the wire
Less friction and faster adjustments
4. Lingual Braces
Placed behind the teeth
Completely hidden from view
Requires specialized orthodontic skills
Balsam Clinics offers lingual braces upon request and eligibility
What to Expect During Your Fixed Braces Journey
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your orthodontist at Balsam Clinics will perform an in-depth evaluation using 3D scans, X-rays, and photos.
Step 2: Placement of Braces
The teeth are cleaned and prepped
Brackets are bonded using a special adhesive
Archwire is threaded through the brackets
Elastics are placed to secure the wire
The entire process usually takes 1–2 hours.
Step 3: Regular Adjustments
You’ll return every 4–6 weeks for tightening, assessments, or changes in wire thickness. This helps maintain continuous pressure for effective movement.
Step 4: Completion and Retention
Once teeth are aligned, braces are removed, and a retainer is fitted to maintain the new position.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Treatment duration varies depending on:
- Severity of the misalignment
- Patient’s age and oral health
- Compliance with appointments and oral hygiene
Average treatment time: 18–24 months
At Balsam Clinics, advanced treatment planning may help reduce the duration without compromising results.
Pain and Discomfort: What’s Normal?
It’s normal to experience soreness for a few days after getting or adjusting braces. Over-the-counter pain relievers, soft foods, and orthodontic wax can help.
Balsam Clinics Tip: Use cold compresses and rinse with warm saltwater to ease gum irritation.
Fixed Braces vs. Clear Aligners
At Balsam Clinics, we help patients weigh the pros and cons based on their specific dental condition and lifestyle.
Oral Care Tips with Fixed Braces
Good oral hygiene is critical during orthodontic treatment. Brackets and wires can trap food, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Tips from Balsam Clinics:
Brush after every meal with an orthodontic brush
Use interdental brushes to clean around brackets
Floss daily using a floss threader or water flosser
Avoid sticky and hard foods like gum, nuts, and popcorn
Rinse with mouthwash to reduce bacteria
Our dental hygienists offer personalized tutorials on oral hygiene for all fixed-braces patients.
Diet Restrictions
To avoid damaging the braces: Avoid:
Hard foods: ice, popcorn, raw carrots
Sticky foods: caramel, chewing gum
Sugary snacks: soft drinks, candy Eat more:
Soft foods: mashed potatoes, pasta, smoothies, bananas
Potential Issues and How to Handle Them
Here are some common issues and Balsam’s solutions:
Cost of Fixed Braces in the UAE
The cost of fixed braces in the UAE can vary depending on the complexity, type of braces, and duration of treatment.
General range: AED 7,000 – AED 18,000
At Balsam Clinics, we offer:
Flexible installment plans
Free initial consultations
Customized quotes with no hidden fees
Insurance and direct billing may also be available depending on your provider.
Why Choose Balsam Clinics for Fixed Braces?
When you trust your orthodontic journey to Balsam Clinics, you’re choosing:
- Experienced orthodontists with years of specialized training
- Cutting-edge technology for precision treatment
- Multilingual support for international and local patients
- Comfortable, modern clinics in accessible locations
- Transparent pricing and flexible payment plans
Whether you’re a teenager starting orthodontic treatment or an adult revisiting alignment correction, Balsam Clinics ensures a stress-free, result-driven experience.
Aftercare and Retainers
Once braces are removed, a retainer is essential to maintain alignment. We provide:
Removable retainers (Hawley or clear)
Fixed lingual retainers for long-term support
Follow-up visits are scheduled every 3–6 months for the first year after braces are removed.
Fixed braces are a reliable, effective, and widely used solution for correcting a variety of dental and jaw issues. While treatment requires commitment and regular care, the long-term benefits—a perfect smile, improved oral health, and boosted confidence—are well worth the journey.
Whether you’re still deciding or ready to begin, Balsam Clinics is here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule your free consultation and start your smile transformation today!
FAQs about fixed braces
1. How do fixed braces work to straighten teeth?
Fixed braces use brackets and wires to apply continuous, gentle pressure on your teeth. Over time, this pressure moves your teeth into their ideal position by remodeling the surrounding bone structure. Adjustments are made periodically at your orthodontist’s office—like Balsam Clinics—to ensure teeth continue shifting in the right direction.
2. Are fixed braces painful?
Fixed braces may cause some discomfort or soreness, especially after initial placement and adjustments. This is normal and typically lasts for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers, orthodontic wax, and soft foods can help ease discomfort. At Balsam Clinics, patients receive personalized aftercare tips to manage pain effectively.
3. What is the average duration for fixed braces treatment?
The typical treatment time ranges from 18 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of your case, your age, and how well you follow care instructions. At Balsam Clinics, advanced diagnostics and individualized treatment planning may help reduce the overall time while ensuring effective results.
4. What foods should I avoid while wearing fixed braces?
To protect your braces, avoid:
- Hard foods: nuts, raw carrots, ice
- Sticky foods: gum, caramel, toffee
- Chewy foods: bagels, tough meats
Instead, choose soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta, and smoothies. Balsam Clinics provides every patient with a detailed food guide during treatment.
5. How often do I need to visit the clinic for adjustments?
You’ll typically need an adjustment every 4 to 6 weeks. These visits are crucial for tightening wires, monitoring progress, and addressing any issues. Balsam Clinics offers flexible appointment schedules to accommodate school and work commitments.
6. Can adults get fixed braces, or are they only for children and teens?
Absolutely, adults can get fixed braces. In fact, many adults opt for ceramic braces for a more discreet look. Age is not a barrier as long as your gums and bones are healthy. Balsam Clinics has tailored treatment plans for adults seeking to correct long-standing dental concerns.
7. Are there alternatives to metal fixed braces?
Yes, several alternatives exist:
Ceramic Braces: Tooth-colored brackets that are less noticeable
Lingual Braces: Placed behind the teeth
Clear Aligners: Removable, nearly invisible trays
Balsam Clinics offers all these options and helps patients choose the most suitable type based on dental needs and aesthetic preferences.
8. Will fixed braces affect my speech or appearance?
Initially, you might experience slight speech changes, especially with lingual braces, but this usually resolves within a few days. As for appearance, metal braces are visible, but ceramic and lingual options are more discreet. Balsam Clinics also offers colored ligatures for teens who want to personalize their braces.
9. What happens after the braces are removed?
Once your braces are taken off, your orthodontist will provide a retainer to keep your teeth in their new position. This is a crucial phase to prevent relapse. Balsam Clinics offers both removable and fixed retainers, along with post-treatment checkups for long-term results.
10. How much do fixed braces cost at Balsam Clinics?
The cost typically ranges between AED 7,000 and AED 18,000, depending on case complexity and the type of braces. Balsam Clinics provides:
- Free consultations
- Transparent pricing
- Flexible payment plans
- Insurance claim support
You’ll receive a personalized quote after your first visit.
Resources & References:
1. American Association of Orthodontists – https://www.aaoinfo.org/
2. British Orthodontic Society – https://www.bos.org.uk/
