In today’s rapidly changing era of orthodontic technology, new technologies such as invisible orthodontics, ceramic brackets, and lingual orthodontics continue to emerge. However, metal bracket orthodontics still holds an important position in the orthodontic market due to its high stability, wide indications, and outstanding cost-effectiveness. Many orthodontists and patients still regard it as the “gold standard” for orthodontic treatment, especially for those who pursue efficient, economical, and reliable correction results.
1、 Clinical advantages of metal brackets
1. Stable orthodontic effect and wide indications
Metal brackets are one of the earliest fixed orthodontic appliances used in orthodontic treatment, and after decades of clinical verification, their corrective effects are stable and reliable. Whether it is common malocclusions such as crowded teeth, sparse dentition, overbite, deep overbite, open jaw, or complex cases of tooth extraction correction, metal brackets can provide strong support to ensure precise tooth movement.
Compared to invisible braces (such as Invisalign), metal brackets have stronger control over teeth, especially suitable for cases with severe crowding and the need for extensive adjustment of bite. Many orthodontists still prioritize recommending metal brackets when facing high difficulty correction needs to ensure the achievement of treatment goals.
2. Fast correction speed and controllable treatment cycle
Due to the stronger fixation between metal brackets and archwires, more precise orthodontic forces can be applied, resulting in higher efficiency in tooth movement. For patients who require tooth extraction or significant adjustment of the dental arch, metal brackets typically complete treatment faster than invisible braces.
Clinical data shows that in cases of equal difficulty, the correction cycle of metal brackets is usually 20% -30% shorter than that of invisible correction, especially suitable for students who want to complete correction as soon as possible or prospective couples approaching their marriage.
3. Economical and cost-effective
Among various correction methods, metal brackets are the most affordable, usually only one-third or even lower than invisible correction. For patients with limited budget but hoping for reliable corrective effects, metal brackets are undoubtedly the most cost-effective choice.
In addition, due to the mature technology of metal brackets, almost all dental hospitals and orthodontic clinics can provide this service, with a wider range of choices for patients, and the cost of follow-up adjustment is usually included in the overall treatment fee, without incurring additional high expenses.
2、 Technological innovation of metal brackets
Although metal brackets have a history of decades, their materials and designs have been continuously optimized in recent years to improve patient comfort and correction efficiency
1. Smaller bracket volume reduces oral discomfort
Traditional metal brackets have a large volume and are prone to rubbing against oral mucosa, leading to ulcers. Modern metal brackets adopt ultra-thin design, with smoother edges, significantly improving wearing comfort.
2. Self locking metal brackets further shorten the treatment period
Self locking brackets (such as Damon Q, SmartClip, etc.) use sliding door technology instead of traditional ligatures to reduce friction and make tooth movement more efficient. Compared to traditional metal brackets, self-locking brackets can shorten treatment time by 3-6 months and reduce the frequency of follow-up visits.
3. Combining digital orthodontics for higher precision
Partial high-end metal bracket systems (such as MBT straight wire arch brackets) combined with 3D digital orthodontic solutions can simulate tooth movement paths before treatment, making the correction process more precise and controllable.
3、 Which groups of people are suitable for metal brackets?
Teenage patients: Due to its fast correction speed and stable effect, metal brackets are the first choice for adolescent orthodontics.
For those with limited budget: Compared to the cost of tens of thousands of yuan for invisible correction, metal brackets are more economical.
For patients with complex cases such as severe crowding, reverse jaw, and open jaw, metal brackets can provide stronger orthodontic force.
Those who pursue efficient correction, such as college entrance examination students, enlisted youth, and those preparing for marriage, hope to complete correction as soon as possible.
4、 Common questions about metal brackets
Q1: Will metal brackets affect aesthetics?
Metal brackets may not be as aesthetically pleasing as invisible braces, but in recent years, colored ligatures have become available for adolescent patients to choose from, allowing for personalized color matching and making the correction process more fun.
Q2: Is it easy for metal brackets to scratch the mouth?
Early metal brackets may have had this issue, but modern brackets have smoother edges and when used in conjunction with orthodontic wax, can significantly reduce discomfort.
Q3: Is it easy for metal brackets to rebound after correction?
The stability after orthodontic treatment mainly depends on the wearing condition of the retainer, and is not related to the type of bracket. As long as the retainer is worn according to the doctor’s advice, the effect of metal bracket correction is also long-lasting.
5、 Conclusion: Metal brackets are still a reliable choice
Despite the continuous emergence of new technologies such as invisible correction and ceramic brackets, metal brackets still occupy an important position in the orthodontic field due to their mature technology, stable effects, and affordable prices. For patients who pursue efficient, economical, and reliable correction effects, metal brackets are still a reliable choice.
Post time: Jun-26-2025