Metal braces are the most proven orthodontic appliance, using stainless steel brackets bonded to each tooth and connected by an archwire that applies gentle continuous pressure to move teeth into their correct positions. Treatment typically spans 12–24 months depending on case complexity. Dentour partner clinics use the same bracket systems and clinical protocols as practices in Western Europe, delivered by certified orthodontists at a fraction of the cost.
Your orthodontist takes panoramic X-rays, cephalometric radiographs, dental photographs, and digital impressions or study models. A comprehensive treatment plan is created and shared with you before any appliances are placed.
Each tooth is cleaned, conditioned, and individual stainless steel brackets are bonded using dental adhesive. An archwire is threaded through the brackets and secured with elastic ligatures. The appointment takes approximately 90 minutes.
Every 6–10 weeks the archwire is changed or tightened to maintain steady tooth movement. Between visits in Moldova, adjustment appointments can be managed locally or via remote monitoring with progress photos.
Mid-treatment X-rays and photographs assess progress. Your orthodontist may add auxiliaries such as elastic bands, springs, or temporary anchorage devices if needed.
When teeth reach their target positions, brackets and adhesive are removed, and the tooth surfaces are polished. This appointment takes approximately 60 minutes.
Immediately after debonding, impressions or scans are taken for custom retainers. Retainers are fitted at the same visit or within 48 hours to prevent teeth from shifting back.
3
Visits
5
Days stay
12–24 months active treatment; retainer worn long-term after
Healing
Comprehensive orthodontic records, digital impressions, treatment planning appointment, and bracket bonding session. You return home with braces fitted.
Routine archwire adjustments every 6–10 weeks, managed by a local orthodontist at home using your shared treatment plan, or via periodic return visits to Moldova.
Brackets removed, teeth polished, and custom retainers fabricated and fitted. Final clinical photographs and records provided.
Metal braces can correct virtually any degree of crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, or crossbite — even complex cases that clear aligners cannot fully address.
Fixed brackets give orthodontists exact three-dimensional control over every tooth movement, often producing superior results for complex cases.
Because braces are permanently attached during treatment, results do not depend on patient discipline to wear a removable appliance.
Modern stainless steel brackets are robust, rarely break, and resistant to staining, keeping treatment on schedule.
Brackets and wires create areas where food and plaque can accumulate. Thorough brushing after every meal and interdental cleaning are essential to prevent white-spot lesions or cavities.
Teeth may feel sore for 3–5 days after bracket bonding and each adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relief and orthodontic wax for bracket irritation are effective management strategies.
Hard or sticky foods can dislodge brackets or bend wires. Patients travelling from abroad should identify a local orthodontist for emergency repairs between visits.
A small degree of root shortening can occur during any orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist monitors this with periodic X-rays throughout treatment.
Stick to soft foods such as yoghurt, pasta, and mashed vegetables. Use orthodontic wax to protect cheeks and lips from new bracket irritation. Take over-the-counter pain relief as needed.
Brush after every meal with a soft-bristled brush or electric toothbrush, cleaning around each bracket at a 45-degree angle. Use floss threaders or a water flosser to clean between teeth and under the archwire.
Avoid hard foods (nuts, raw carrots, hard bread), sticky foods (caramel, chewing gum), and excessive sugary drinks throughout treatment to protect brackets and prevent tooth decay.
Attend all scheduled adjustment appointments every 6–10 weeks. If you experience persistent pain, a loose bracket, or a protruding wire, contact the clinic promptly for advice.
Wear retainers as instructed — typically full-time for 3–6 months, then nightly long-term. Retainer compliance is crucial to maintaining your orthodontic result.
Schedule a professional dental cleaning every 3–6 months during active treatment to remove plaque and tartar that is difficult to reach around brackets.
Orthodontic treatment with metal braces is well-suited to a dental tourism model. Your initial bonding visit requires 3–5 days in Moldova. Routine adjustment appointments (every 6–10 weeks) can be handled by a local orthodontist at home using your shared treatment plan. A second trip for debonding and retainer fitting at the end of treatment takes 2–3 days. Most patients make 2–3 trips to Moldova over the full treatment duration.