How do removable braces work?

Removable braces, or retainer-style braces, usually combine an acrylic plate and a stainless-steel wire. They are made using your dental impressions and move your teeth gently into the desired position with the help of continual adjustment by your dentist.

How long should I wear removable braces for each day?

You should wear your removable braces all the time – except for when you need to eat, clean your teeth or play contact sports. The advantage of removable braces is that you can clean your teeth more effectively than with fixed braces, reducing your risk of any unwanted oral health problems during treatment.

How are removable braces fitted?

Removable braces are made in a dental lab using your dental impressions. Your dentist will show you how to clip them into place and remove them for cleaning.

How long does removable braces treatment take?

Typically, treatment with removable braces is faster than with fixed braces and is usually completed in under 12 months.

Rodericks Dental Partners Treatments Fixed Braces

Straightening Treatment

Fixed Braces

A ‘fit and forget’ way to straighter teeth and a confident smile.

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Reviewed by: Puja Klaire, Bchd Pg Cert Medical Education, Lead Clinical Advisor at Rodericks Dental Partners. Review date: 27th July 2026

What are fixed braces?

Fixed braces are a popular method for achieving a straighter smile and an even bite. Small brackets are bonded to your teeth, before thin wires are threaded through them. Your dentist tightens the wires from time to time, creating gentle pressure that moves your teeth into better alignment. Unlike removable options such as Invisalign, fixed braces stay in place throughout your treatment, promoting consistent and predictable results.

Benefits of fixed braces

Straighten crooked teeth

Fixed braces can correct most cases of crooked or overcrowded teeth, from mild to more complex.

Reduce gaps

Even if you have a large gap between two teeth, fixed braces are often the best way to narrow it.

Correct bite problems

Your dentist can use fixed braces to address a wide range of bite issues, including pronounced overbites and underbites.

How do fixed braces work?

Fixed braces bond directly to your teeth and apply continuous, gentle pressure to move them into the desired alignment. They can address a wide range of straightening issues, including many that removable aligners can’t.

There are three components of fixed braces:

Brackets - small metal or ceramic squares bonded to the front of each tooth, where they act as anchors
Wire - the metal wire that threads through the brackets, tightened at each appointment to keep your teeth moving in the right direction
Ligatures - small elastic bands that hold the wire in place

Fixed brace treatment process

Consultation and assessment

Your orthodontist will examine your teeth and take X-rays, scans or impressions depending on what’s needed. They’ll assess the health of your teeth and gums and put together a personalised fixed brace treatment plan.

Preparation and fitting

Your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and polished, before being lightly etched to create a rough surface. Adhesive is applied, allowing the brackets to bond firmly. Finally, the wire is threaded through the brackets and secured in place with the ligatures.

Adjustments and ongoing care

You’ll have follow-up tightening appointments every four to ten weeks. Your orthodontist will check your progress, clean your braces and teeth and offer any relevant advice. Good oral hygiene is important to prevent staining and cavities forming around the brackets.

Removal

Once your treatment is complete and both you and your orthodontist are happy with the results, your fixed braces will be removed and your teeth cleaned and polished.

Retention

With your fixed braces removed, your teeth will naturally try to shift back to their original position. You’ll be given a custom-made, clear retainer to wear every day to begin with, then just at night once your orthodontist is satisfied with how your teeth have settled.

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Are fixed braces right for me?

Fixed braces may be right for you if you want to:

Straighten crowded and crooked teeth
Close small or large gaps between your teeth
Correct an over-, under- or crossbite
Realign protruding teeth
Benefit from a treatment you don’t have to think about
Avoid the risk of losing expensive, removable aligners

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Let’s discuss the right treatment option for your smile in a consultation.

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Fixed brace treatment options

Traditional ‘train track’ braces

This is most popular and option because they offer consistently reliable and predictable results.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces work in the same way as metal, but the brackets are made from tooth-coloured or clear ceramic, making them far more discreet.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces use metal brackets and wires, but they’re bonded to the back of your teeth rather than the front. This makes them completely hidden when you talk or smile. Because of their bespoke nature, they tend to cost more than standard fixed braces and may take a little longer to achieve results.

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces work like traditional orthodontic braces but use a built-in sliding mechanism to hold the wire, rather than elastic ligatures. This makes them easier to clean and adjust, and removes the risk of ligature staining.

Aftercare for fixed braces

Fixed braces need a little extra care to avoid cavities, staining and damage.

Brackets trap food particles easily, which can cause problems for your teeth and braces if left too long. Brush after every meal and keep a travel toothbrush with you for when you’re out and about.

The acid in fizzy drinks and pure fruit juices can pool around the brackets and erode your enamel. Try to cut these out or significantly limit how often you have them.

Interdental brushes help clean between the brackets and under the wire, reaching spots a regular toothbrush can’t. Waxed floss or dental tape also helps keep your teeth and braces properly clean.

Finance Calculator

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Fixed braces FAQs

Find answers to our most frequently asked questions about fixed braces.

As a guide, most patients wear fixed braces for between 18-24 months but your dentist will advise you, based on the condition of your teeth and the extent of the movement required. It’s important to weigh up the short term inconvenience that you might experience with braces, with the long term benefits that straighter teeth and a more even bite will have on your emotional wellbeing as well as your oral health.

The right option between Invisalign vs braces depends on your individual needs. Fixed braces are often better suited to more complex issues and can sometimes mean a shorter overall treatment time. Invisalign could be a good fit if you prefer a more discreet look and are comfortable removing your aligners when eating and drinking.

There’s no sharp pain involved in either fitting or wearing your braces. What you might feel initially is a dull ache as your teeth begin to move. For most patients, this responds well to over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen and subsides after a few days. It’s worth remembering that any discomfort you feel is also a sign that the treatment is working.

The cost of fixed brace treatment can vary greatly, depending on the amount of straightening or realignment you need. And while most people opt for the traditional ‘train track’ metal braces, there are more discreet alternatives that come with a higher price tag. Your orthodontist will talk you through pricing and payment options at your initial appointment, so you know exactly what to expect.

Increasing numbers of adults are wearing fixed braces and much of the stigma around their appearance has gone. Your dentist may recommend them for cosmetic reasons but also to improve the comfort and effectiveness of your bite, which can cause painful headaches or other problems if not addressed.

Any other questions?

Feel free to contact us and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

What our patients say about us

Patients across the UK are sharing their views about the treatments and care they receive from us.

Patient at Dental Solutions, Ilford

All of my concerns were addressed thoughtfully, and the entire journey with my braces was smooth and reassuring. I'm now...

All of my concerns were addressed thoughtfully, and the entire journey with my braces was smooth and reassuring. I'm now very happy with my teeth—they look their absolute best! I would 100% recommend this practice to anyone considering orthodontic treatment.

Patient at Smiles Orthodontic Practice

I had my braces done here a few years ago and recently came back for a retainer check. Sona and the team were fantastic ...

I had my braces done here a few years ago and recently came back for a retainer check. Sona and the team were fantastic — they fit me in quickly, were really professional, and made everything easy. It’s great to see the same high standard of care even years later. Highly recommend!

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Patient at Greenwich Dental Referral Practice

I have been going to Greenwich Dental Referral Practice for the last 3 years for braces. The whole team is incredibly we...

I have been going to Greenwich Dental Referral Practice for the last 3 years for braces. The whole team is incredibly welcoming. Dr Queli Costa is professional and friendly.

Patient at Selly Oak Dental Practice

The process of getting your braces is very calm. They explain everything to you and make sure you are happy before you l...

The process of getting your braces is very calm. They explain everything to you and make sure you are happy before you leave the appointment.

Patient at Resolution Specialist Treatment Centre

Really great orthodontist with a relaxed atmosphere, staff seem really friendly and to be happy in their work which filt...

Really great orthodontist with a relaxed atmosphere, staff seem really friendly and to be happy in their work which filters down to great care of patients. They have gone above and beyond for us a couple of times now, would totally recommend! The braces are going great, it's all been rather effortless really.

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