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D. Nguyễn Thị Hạ Linh
According to Dr. Nguyen Thi Ha Linh, an orthodontic expert at the Lac Viet Intech Dental system: "Every year our system records thousands of orthodontic cases with conventional metal brackets because of their advantages and optimal effectiveness"
Results after 12 months of elastic-tie metal braces
Conventional metal brackets, also called elastic-tie metal brackets, are made of stainless steel; the archwire is fixed firmly to each bracket with elastic ties, maintaining steady force to move the teeth as accurately and safely as possible.
The structure of elastic-tie metal brackets
Elastic-tie metal braces are a popular orthodontic method suitable for most misalignments from mild to severe, such as crooked teeth, crowding, protrusion, underbite, gapped teeth or bite problems (open bite, deep bite, crossbite). With stable pulling force and high effectiveness, these brackets bring the teeth into the right positions and clearly improve the bite. However, because they are less aesthetic and need regular elastic changes, they are not really suitable for people with high appearance requirements or who find it hard to attend frequent check-ups. They are the optimal choice for those who prioritize orthodontic effectiveness and a reasonable cost.
| Criterion | Conventional metal brackets (elastic-tie) | Self-ligating metal brackets |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | The archwire is fixed to the bracket with elastic or small steel ties. | A sliding cover or automatic clip holds the archwire, with no need for elastics. |
| Orthodontic effectiveness | Stable force, suitable for most cases from simple to complex. However, friction is high, so the teeth move more slowly. | Even, lighter force with less friction, so the teeth move faster and more smoothly. Effective even in difficult cases, often shortening treatment time. |
| Treatment time | Usually longer (18–24 months depending on the condition). | Can be 3–6 months shorter than conventional brackets. |
| Comfort | The elastic ties can tighten strongly, easily causing soreness. Food easily gets caught in the elastics, causing discomfort. | Less tightening force, reducing pain and discomfort. Less food trapping because there are no elastics. |
| Check-ups | Frequent check-ups (every 3–4 weeks) to change the elastics. | Longer intervals between check-ups (every 6–8 weeks). |
| Oral hygiene | Harder to clean because the elastics stain easily and collect plaque, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis. | Easier to clean because there are no elastics. Less plaque builds up, reducing the risk of gingivitis. |
| Aesthetics | The elastics easily discolor over time (yellow, cloudy) and look unattractive. However, you can choose multicolored elastics, which suit children. | No elastics, so they stay more aesthetic. However, the metal is still visible, so aesthetics are not high. |
| Durability & firmness | The elastics may stretch, slip off or break while chewing. | The sliding cover is firmer, less likely to come loose, reducing breakage. |
| Cost | The lowest of all bracket braces (suitable for pupils, students and people wanting to save money). | Higher than conventional brackets (due to their complex structure and new technology). |
| Suitable for | People who want effective, low-cost orthodontics and are not too concerned about time or convenience. | People who want shorter treatment, more comfortable chewing and easier cleaning, and are willing to pay more. |
Read more: Are self-ligating metal braces good? An assessment of the pros and cons
Conventional metal brackets cost less than other bracket types, suiting people on a limited budget. Prices start from 33 million VND. However, to ensure clear results without oral health problems, patients should choose a reputable clinic and avoid sacrificing quality for a low price.
At Lac Viet Intech Dental, conventional metal braces cost 33,500,000 VND when paid in full. With this service, you will receive a complete oral hygiene kit, including a water flosser.
Price list for elastic-tie metal braces in 2025
Lac Viet Intech Dental commits to using 100% genuine elastic-tie metal brackets from the USA and Japan, officially imported.
Lac Viet Intech Dental partners with the 3M corporation
In reality, the duration of metal braces depends on many factors, such as how misaligned the teeth are, age, how well the doctor's instructions are followed and the type of brackets used. On average, however, this orthodontic process lasts 18 to 24 months, possibly longer or shorter depending on the specific case.
Wearing conventional metal brackets for a long time requires patience and following a proper oral care routine. The doctor will carry out regular check-ups to adjust the force, monitor the progress of the teeth and suggest supporting measures to shorten treatment. In some cases with little misalignment or young patients, treatment may be shorter, while complex cases need more time for optimal results.
During treatment, staying positive, eating properly and keeping your teeth clean help shorten treatment time and limit unwanted complications. Braces are a long journey, but the final result will be worth your patience.
The braces process at Lac Viet Intech Dental has 5 steps: examination and consultation; hearing the treatment plan; signing a commitment contract; orthodontic treatment; removing the brackets and wearing a retainer.
The braces process
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Proper oral hygiene
With elastic-tie brackets, food sticks easily to the elastics and brackets. So you should brush after every meal, combined with interdental brushes, dental floss and mouthwash for thorough cleaning, limiting the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis.
Watch your diet
Limit hard, chewy and sticky foods such as taffy, hard candy, bones and nuts… as they can easily knock brackets off or break the elastics. Also avoid dark drinks such as tea and coffee to limit staining of the elastics. Instead, choose soft, easy-to-chew and nutritious foods.
Attend regular check-ups
With elastic-tie braces, you need a check-up every 3–4 weeks for the doctor to change the elastics and adjust the pulling force. If you miss appointments, orthodontic progress may slow down or unwanted misalignment may occur.
Relieve pain and soreness properly
In the first days after the brackets are attached or after tightening, you may feel sore. Use painkillers as prescribed by the doctor, or apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce discomfort.
Wear supporting appliances as instructed
In some cases, the doctor may prescribe inter-arch elastics or supporting appliances. You need to wear them for the right amount of time for optimal orthodontic results.
According to Dr. Ha Linh, choosing conventional metal brackets is the ideal choice for those who want high effectiveness at a reasonable cost. However, to get good results, the wearer needs a clear understanding of the process, side effects and proper care. The doctor also advises that choosing a reputable medical facility with a good professional team will minimize risks, shorten treatment time and improve orthodontic results.
During treatment, do not remove, change or abandon treatment on your own without the doctor's instructions. Close, honest cooperation in tracking the progress of your teeth will help the doctor make suitable adjustments, minimize risks and maximize the chance of success. Also, care for and clean your teeth properly, maintain a healthy lifestyle and limit things that harm the teeth such as tobacco, alcohol or very hot or cold food.
Conventional metal brackets are one of the most popular orthodontic methods, optimal in cost, effectiveness and durability. Although they have certain limitations such as discomfort and a long treatment time, with the support of reputable doctors, this type of bracket is still an excellent solution for anyone who wants to improve their teeth. As long as you follow the process, care for your teeth properly and keep the faith, you will certainly achieve the even, natural-looking teeth you want.
If you are considering braces, you should visit a clinic in person, listen to the advice and compare to find the most suitable option for you.
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