Dental braces are an orthodontic appliance used to treat crooked, rotated or crowded teeth as well as jaw misalignments. There are two main types: fixed braces, which are bonded to the teeth with brackets and wires, and removable braces made of plastic and wire. A modern option is clear aligners, which are nearly invisible and worn by the patient.
Treatment starts with an examination by an orthodontist or dentist, often including an X-ray, an impression or digital scan, and a treatment plan. The braces are then fitted and adjusted during regular check-ups so the teeth move step by step. After the active phase, a stabilisation phase with a retainer usually follows so the teeth do not shift back to their original position.
Braces are needed when teeth cause functional or aesthetic problems: crowding, gaps, an overbite or underbite, or difficulty chewing and cleaning. Both growing children and teenagers and, increasingly, adults are treated.
Look for a sound professional diagnosis, transparent information about alternatives, and clear details on duration and cost. Costs depend heavily on the severity, the type of treatment and its length; clarify in advance whether insurance or disability insurance (IV) covers part of it. Common mistakes are poor oral hygiene during treatment and neglecting the retainer afterwards.