Braces brackets are small square or rectangular attachments bonded to each tooth to hold the orthodontic wire in place. They guide teeth into proper alignment by applying gentle, consistent pressure over time. Brackets can be made of metal, ceramic, or other materials, depending on aesthetic and functional preferences.
Types of braces brackets:
Metal Brackets – The traditional stainless steel kind, very strong and effective.
Ceramic Brackets – Tooth-coloured or clear, so that they are less noticeable, but also a bit more fragile.
Self-Ligating Brackets – These have a special built-in clip that holds the wire, so they don’t need elastic bands. Treatment with these is often faster.
Lingual Brackets – These go on the inside of the teeth, so they are invisible from the outside.
Plastic or Clear Brackets – These are not very common, and are mainly used for cosmetic purposes. They are not very durable, compared to metal or ceramic.
What do brackets do in my teeth?
Brackets are what keep your orthodontic wire, or braces, in place on each tooth. They hold the wire in place to allow for slow, even pressure to be applied and make teeth move over time to help correct crowding, spacing and bite issues. Think of them as the important part that really moves your teeth to where they should be.
At our orthodontics Manchester clinic, we fit brackets for patients from Manchester, Stockport, and Didsbury. We provide clear instructions to make wearing braces comfortable and effective.