What are metal braces?
Metal braces are the traditional type of fixed brace. Small metal brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth and act as handles. A wire runs through them and puts gentle pressure on your teeth. Over time, this moves them into place.
Elastic or metal ties hold the wire. Small springs can open or close spaces between teeth. Metal braces treat crowded, crooked and gapped teeth, and bite problems. Treatment at our Lewisham practice is led by Richard Sardinha, whose clinical focus is orthodontics.
Why choose metal braces?
- They’re a reliable way to move teeth, with a long track record.
- They can treat complex cases and bite problems.
- They usually cost less than ceramic braces or clear aligners.
- Modern brackets are smaller and more comfortable than older designs.
- They stay on all the time, so there’s nothing to remember to put in.
Want your brace to be less visible? Ceramic braces work the same way with clear or tooth-coloured brackets. Or compare Invisalign clear aligners.
How treatment works
Free consultation and assessment
We study your teeth and bite carefully before we plan anything. Success isn’t just where your teeth end up. It’s whether they stay there. Book a free orthodontic consultation.
Your plan
You get a written treatment plan with the full cost before you start.
Fitting and adjustments
We bond the brackets to your teeth and fit the wire. We tighten your braces about every 4 weeks. You may feel some sensitivity for a day or so afterwards.
Living with braces
Brush carefully around the brackets after every meal. Avoid chewy or hard sweets and fizzy drinks. If you play a contact sport, wear a gum shield.
Retainers and follow-up
When your braces come off, a retainer helps hold your teeth in place. We keep seeing you after treatment to check your teeth stay in position.
Metal braces at SmileUp
- Treatment led by Richard Sardinha, whose clinical focus is orthodontics
- Free orthodontic consultation
- Metal braces, ceramic braces and clear aligners under one roof, so you can compare options honestly
- Open six days · Mon, Tue until 7:30pm
Watch: braces and aligners at SmileUp
How much does it cost?
Your dentist confirms the exact cost in a written plan before any treatment starts.
| Fixed braces (metal or ceramic)Quoted after assessment | Price on request |
Representative example: cash price £1,595, amount of credit £1,595, first payment of £33.36 taken upfront then 59 monthly payments of £33.21, total cost of credit £397.75, total amount payable £1,992.75 over 60 months, rate of interest 9.9% p.a. fixed. Representative 9.9% APR. SmileUp Limited is a credit broker, not a lender (FRN 727371). Finance provided by Tabeo Finance Limited (FRN 777539). Credit subject to status, UK residents 18+.
