Orthodontics · Fixed braces

Fixed braces

Brackets bonded to the teeth and a thin wire linking them move the teeth gradually and precisely into the right position. Locally they are often called “fiksna proteza”.

The dental chair where fixed braces are fitted at Vita Dente
In shortFixed braces straighten crooked and crowded teeth and correct the bite in teenagers and adults. Treatment usually takes 12 to 24 months, with check-ups every 4 to 6 weeks. A retainer is worn afterwards. In Breza they are fitted by dr. stom. Melita Đurić, orthodontic specialist.
12–24months for most treatments
4–6weeks between check-ups
1–2 hto fit the braces
12+years — once most permanent teeth are in

Who are fixed braces for?

Fixed braces are the most precise orthodontic treatment and are used when individual teeth need to move in every direction. They are usually fitted once most permanent teeth have come through — typically between 11 and 13 — and also for adults of any age, as long as gums and bone are healthy.

  • Crowded, crooked or rotated teeth
  • Gaps between the teeth
  • Front teeth that stick out or sit too far back
  • Deep bite, open bite or crossbite
  • Preparation for crowns, bridges or implants in adults

Types of brackets

Metal brackets are the most common choice: small, reliable and the most affordable. For other options, it's best to talk to the orthodontist.

How are they fitted?

  1. The teeth are cleaned and prepared with a special gel.
  2. A bracket is bonded to each tooth with special adhesive and hardened with light.
  3. The wire is placed in the brackets and held with elastics or clips.
  4. You get instructions on cleaning, food and what to do if something comes loose.

Fitting doesn't hurt and needs no anaesthetic. For the first few days the teeth are tender and you feel pressure — a sign the braces are working, and it passes quickly.

Living with fixed braces

Food

Avoid hard and sticky food: nuts, hard sweets, toffee, chewing gum, popcorn. Cut apples and carrots into pieces. Limit fizzy and sugary drinks.

Cleaning

Brush after every meal. Alongside a normal toothbrush, use an orthodontic brush and interdental brushes for the space under the wire. More in the article how to clean your teeth with fixed braces.

Sport and music

Wear a mouthguard for contact sports. Wind instruments take a few weeks to get used to.

After removal: retention

When the braces come off, the teeth tend to move back towards their old position. That is why a fixed retainer (a thin wire on the inside of the teeth) is bonded and/or a removable retainer (a thin clear splint) is made to wear at night. Retention is the part of treatment that protects your result.

How much do fixed braces cost?

The price depends on how complex the case is, the number of jaws treated and the type of brackets. You get the exact price in your treatment plan after the check-up and X-rays. For any question about price, send us a message on WhatsApp or Viber.

Questions

Fixed braces — common questions

How long are fixed braces worn?

Most treatments take 12 to 24 months. Simpler cases can be shorter and complex ones longer. Regular check-ups and good cleaning also affect the duration.

Do fixed braces hurt?

Fitting doesn't hurt. For two to four days after fitting and after check-ups the teeth are tender. If a bracket rubs your cheek, orthodontic wax — which you get at the practice — helps.

What if a bracket comes off?

It is not an emergency, but send us a message on WhatsApp or Viber. We'll arrange when to come in so we can bond it again. Keep the bracket.

Is “fiksna proteza” the same as fixed braces?

Yes. “Fiksna proteza” is the everyday Bosnian name for fixed braces. Strictly speaking, a prosthesis replaces missing teeth, while braces correct the position of the teeth.

Can I get fixed braces at 30 or 40?

Yes. Teeth can be moved at any age, as long as the gums and bone around them are healthy. We check this at the first visit.

Book a visit

One click and you are writing to the practice

Send us a message on WhatsApp or Viber – we reply during opening hours, usually the same day. The first orthodontic consultation is free of obligation.