Traditional Braces
Traditional Braces
Introduction: Why Choose Traditional Metal Braces?
In modern orthodontics, traditional braces with metal brackets remain a reference solution for achieving a harmonious smile and perfectly aligned teeth. Despite the emergence of new orthodontic technologies, this proven method continues to offer exceptional results, particularly for complex cases requiring precise control of tooth movement.
In Switzerland, where excellence in dental care is a priority, many patients still choose this option for its reliability and incomparable effectiveness. Our dental practice accompanies you in this process with expertise and kindness.
What is a Traditional Braces?
Definition and Components
A traditional braces consists of several elements working in synergy to gradually reposition your teeth:
- Metal brackets: These small high-quality stainless steel attachments are fixed to the outer surface of each tooth. Their modern design makes them smaller and more comfortable than older models.
- Orthodontic arch: A flexible metal wire connects all brackets together. This arch exerts constant and controlled pressure to guide tooth movement to their ideal position.
- Ligatures: Small elastic bands or metal wires hold the arch in place in the brackets. Elastic ligatures can be personalized with different colors, particularly appreciated by young patients.
- Additional accessories: Depending on the specific needs of the treatment, intermaxillary elastics, springs or chains can be added to optimize results.
Evolution and Modernity
Today's braces have nothing in common with those of 20 years ago. Technological advances have enabled the development of smaller brackets, lighter materials and less invasive placement techniques. This evolution ensures increased comfort throughout orthodontic treatment.
Advantages of Metal Brackets
1. Maximum Effectiveness for All Types of Malocclusions
Traditional braces excel in treating various orthodontic problems:
- Severe tooth crowding
- Significant interdental spaces
- Overbite or open bite problems
- Jaw misalignments
- Complex tooth rotations
This versatility makes it the preferred option for cases requiring significant or multidirectional tooth movements.
2. Precise Control of Tooth Movement
The design of metal brackets allows the orthodontist to exercise meticulous control over each tooth individually. This precision is particularly crucial for:
- Adjusting tooth inclination
- Correcting rotations
- Perfectly aligning the dental arch
- Coordinating movements between upper and lower jaws
3. Durability and Resistance
Made from medical-grade stainless steel, metal brackets resist remarkably well to chewing forces and daily stresses. This robustness ensures:
- Fewer emergency appointments for repairs
- Constant treatment progression
- Adaptation to all lifestyles, including sports practice
4. Optimal Quality-Price Ratio
In Switzerland, where dental care represents a significant investment, traditional braces offer an excellent quality-price ratio. They often constitute the most economical option while guaranteeing exceptional results.
5. Optimized Treatment Time
Thanks to their superior biomechanical efficiency, metal brackets often allow reducing the total treatment duration compared to other orthodontic options, particularly for complex cases.
Treatment Process: From Consultation to Perfect Smile
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Diagnosis
Your orthodontic journey begins with a thorough consultation in our practice. This first meeting includes:
- Detailed clinical examination
- Panoramic and cephalometric X-rays
- Digital or traditional impressions
- Complete analysis of your occlusion
- Discussion of your aesthetic and functional goals
Step 2: Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on the diagnosis, our orthodontist develops a customized treatment plan including:
- Estimated treatment duration
- Key steps of tooth repositioning
- Available customization options
- Detailed quote and payment terms
Step 3: Braces Placement
Braces placement is a painless procedure that generally lasts between 60 and 90 minutes:
- Cleaning and preparation of dental surfaces
- Application of special adhesive
- Precise positioning of each bracket
- Adhesive polymerization with LED lamp
- Insertion of initial orthodontic arch
- Placement of ligatures
Step 4: Follow-up and Regular Adjustments
Control appointments every 4 to 8 weeks allow:
- Adjustment of arch tension
- Changing ligatures
- Progress evaluation
- Necessary adaptations of the treatment plan
Step 5: Removal and Retention
Once the objectives are achieved, braces removal is performed quickly and painlessly. A custom retention appliance then maintains the obtained results.
Comfort and Adaptation: Practical Advice
The First Days
Adaptation to traditional braces is generally rapid. The first 48 to 72 hours may be accompanied by:
- Mild dental sensitivity
- Sensation of pressure
- Adaptation period for speech
These temporary discomforts dissipate quickly thanks to our team's advice and appropriate painkillers if necessary.
Diet and Braces
To protect your braces and optimize treatment, certain dietary precautions are necessary:
To Avoid:
- Very hard foods (nuts, hard candies, ice)
- Sticky foods (caramels, chewing gum)
- Foods to bite (whole apples, corn on cob)
Recommended:
- Fruits and vegetables cut into pieces
- Tender meats
- Dairy products
- Well-cooked starches
Enhanced Oral Hygiene
Braces require impeccable hygiene:
- Brushing after each meal with an orthodontic toothbrush
- Daily use of special orthodontic dental floss
- Interdental brushes to clean around brackets
- Antiseptic mouthwashes as recommended
- Regular dental checkups to prevent cavities
Innovations and Modern Technologies
Self-Ligating Brackets
This innovation eliminates the need for elastic ligatures, offering:
- Less friction and more comfort
- More spaced appointments
- Easier cleaning
- Potentially faster progression
Shape Memory Arches
Modern nickel-titanium alloys exert constant and gentle force, improving:
- Patient comfort
- Movement predictability
- Treatment efficiency
3D Digital Planning
Cutting-edge technologies allow:
- Precise visualization of the final result
- Optimal treatment personalization
- Digital progress monitoring
Comparison with Other Orthodontic Options
Traditional Braces vs Clear Aligners
Advantages of metal brackets:
- Superior effectiveness for complex cases
- More precise movement control
- No risk of loss or forgetting
- Generally lower cost
Situations where brackets are preferable:
- Significant tooth rotations
- Significant vertical movements
- Necessary dental extractions
- Young or less disciplined patients
Traditional Braces vs Ceramic Brackets
Advantages of metal brackets:
- More resistant and durable
- Less likely to break
- More economical
- No risk of staining
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can you wear traditional braces?
Orthodontics has no age! While treatment traditionally begins in adolescence (12-16 years), more and more adults are opting for this solution. The important thing is to have healthy teeth and gums.
How long does the treatment last?
The average duration varies between 18 and 36 months depending on:
- Case complexity
- Patient age
- Patient cooperation
- Treatment objectives
Is the treatment painful?
Modern orthodontics minimizes discomfort. Mild sensitivity may occur after adjustments, but it remains manageable with common painkillers.
Can I practice sports with braces?
Absolutely! We simply recommend wearing an adapted mouthguard for contact sports.
Does the appliance affect speech?
An adaptation period of a few days is generally sufficient to regain normal speech.
Investing in Your Smile: Financial Aspects
Treatment Cost in Switzerland
The price of traditional orthodontic treatment varies according to several factors:
- Treatment duration
- Case complexity
- Specific techniques used
- Region and chosen practice
Our practice offers transparent quotes and payment facilities adapted to your budget.
Insurance Coverage
In Switzerland, orthodontic care coverage depends on:
- Your supplementary insurance
- Patient age
- Medical necessity of treatment
Our administrative team accompanies you in your procedures with insurance companies.
Our Practice Expertise
Specialized Team
Our practice brings together certified orthodontists, trained in the latest techniques and technologies. This expertise guarantees:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Optimal treatment plan
- Personalized follow-up
- Long-lasting results
Modern and Welcoming Environment
We have invested in state-of-the-art equipment for your comfort:
- 3D digital imaging
- Sterilization to the strictest standards
- Ergonomic care spaces
- Advanced bonding technologies
Personalized Support
Each patient benefits from individualized follow-up including:
- Detailed explanations at each step
- Availability for emergencies
- Advice adapted to your lifestyle
- Constant support until achieving the perfect smile
Conclusion: Your Smile, Our Priority
Traditional braces with metal brackets represent a proven, modern and effective orthodontic solution. Their ability to treat the most complex cases with precision makes them a wise choice for achieving the smile of your dreams.
In our Swiss dental practice, we combine technical excellence with a human and personalized approach. Every smile is unique, and we are committed to accompanying you throughout your orthodontic journey with professionalism and kindness.
Don't wait any longer to invest in your smile and your well-being. Contact our practice today for a personalized consultation. Our team will be happy to answer all your questions and guide you towards the ideal orthodontic solution.
Book your appointment now and discover how traditional braces can transform your smile and your confidence!
For more information about our orthodontic treatments or to schedule your consultation, don't hesitate to contact us. Your perfect smile awaits!
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Rue Senedu Gebru 5, 1022 Chavannes-près-Renens, Suisse