Types of brackets
Brackets may be metal, ceramic, self-ligating, lingual, or part of a clear aligner system, and selection depends on the tooth movement required.
The short answer
The main bracket choices are conventional metal, tooth-coloured ceramic, self-ligating, and lingual brackets, while clear aligners use removable trays instead of fixed brackets.
What does an orthodontic bracket do on a tooth?
A bracket is a small attachment bonded to a tooth that holds an archwire. Metal and ceramic brackets sit on the front surface; lingual brackets are custom placed behind the teeth. Self-ligating brackets use a built-in clip rather than a separate elastic to retain the wire.
How is the right orthodontic appliance chosen?
An orthodontist examines the bite, tooth positions, roots, jaw relationship, hygiene, and treatment goals before choosing an appliance. Discuss appearance, speech, cleaning, repair needs, and whether removable trays or fixed brackets can deliver the planned movements.
When should you arrange an orthodontic assessment?
Book an orthodontic assessment if teeth are crowded, spaced, rotated, or causing an uncomfortable bite. Seek prompt care for a sharp broken bracket, wire injury, facial swelling, or severe pain.
What should you ask about your bracket options?
Ask which movements your bite requires, why one appliance suits them, how attachments are bonded and adjusted, and how you will clean around them. Ask what happens if a bracket loosens or a wire irritates the cheek.
Frequently asked questions
What is an orthodontic bracket designed to hold?
A bracket is a small attachment bonded to a tooth that holds an archwire.
What happens before an orthodontic appliance is chosen?
An orthodontist examines the bite, tooth positions, roots, jaw relationship, hygiene, and treatment goals before choosing an appliance.
Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.