Fixed braces remain the most widely used and clinically reliable form of orthodontic treatment for teenagers — and for good reason. They are highly effective across a wide range of cases, they work continuously without depending on patient compliance, and they allow a level of precision in tooth movement that is difficult to match with any other appliance.
For adolescent patients, fixed braces are often the most straightforward route to a well-aligned, well-functioning bite — and the teenage years, with active jaw growth and a full permanent dentition, are an ideal time to carry out this treatment.
Two types of fixed braces are routinely used for adolescent patients.
Metal braces are made from stainless steel and are the most widely used type of fixed orthodontic appliance. They are robust, reliable, and highly effective. Many teenagers choose metal braces as a matter of course, and they remain the first-line choice for more complex cases.
Ceramic (tooth-coloured) braces use brackets made from a material that closely matches the natural shade of the teeth, making them significantly less visible than metal brackets. They offer similar clinical precision to metal braces and are a popular choice for teenagers who want a more discreet fixed brace option without moving to aligner therapy.
The most suitable option for your teenager will be discussed at the consultation, taking into account the complexity of their case, their lifestyle, and their preferences.
Fixed braces are effective across a wide range of adolescent orthodontic cases, including:
Assessment and planning — a full clinical examination, photographs, radiographs, and digital or physical models are taken. Your teenager’s treatment plan is explained in detail, including the recommended brace type, estimated treatment duration, and the sequence of tooth movements.
Fitting — brackets are bonded to the teeth and an initial wire is placed. The fitting appointment takes approximately one hour. Some mild soreness in the first few days is normal and settles quickly.
Active treatment — regular appointments every six to eight weeks for wire changes and adjustments. At each visit, progress is assessed and forces are modified according to the treatment plan.
Debond — when treatment is complete, brackets are removed and the teeth are cleaned and polished.
Retention — retainers are fitted immediately after debond and must be worn long-term to maintain the result. This is an essential and lifelong part of orthodontic treatment.
Diet — hard, sticky, and chewy foods should be avoided to prevent brackets from breaking. A full list is provided at the start of treatment.
Oral hygiene — thorough cleaning around brackets is essential. Interproximal brushes and fluoride rinses are recommended and will be discussed at the outset.
Sport — a mouthguard is recommended for contact sports. Custom-fit mouthguards compatible with fixed braces are available and strongly advised.
Broken brackets — these are common and are managed at routine or emergency appointments as needed.
To find out whether fixed braces are the right option for your teenager, book a specialist assessment at Lusk Orthodontics.
Book Now
5.0
We highly recommend Dr Erfan Sallom. He transformed our daughter’s teeth, and she’s extremely happy with her beautiful smile! We were looking for an Orthodontist who had a reputable history, gave excellent results, held high standards, was kind and gentle, and that is what we got. She didn’t have to get any teeth removed, which was a bonus. Really appreciated the individual time, updates, never felt rushed, and a personable approach. Thank you, Erfan. – Georgina
5.0
I was very anxious about orthodontic treatment and, as such, delayed it for years. I did not need to be nervous with the expertise and professionalism of Erfan. He was very motivational and ensured I achieved an excellent result. I am now extremely happy with my smile. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone. – Ciara K
5.0
I would really recommend anyone to Dr Erfan Salloum. My experience with Erfan was amazing. I had no issue; he was very knowledgeable about his work and was always happy to explain the next steps with my treatment and concerns, or answer any questions about my treatment plan, etc!
I would recommend Erfan to anyone, there’s no safer hands to be in than Erfan for sure! – Martin R
5.0
I have just finished my two-year orthodontic treatment with Dr Erfan, and I would highly recommend him. He explained everything perfectly about the treatment plan, and I was always treated with great care. You are in good hands! Many thanks. – Julie P
5.0
I would highly recommend Dr Erfan from start to finish. He took the time to make the entire process for our daughter as easy as possible. We are delighted with the results & she has received many compliments on her beautiful smile. – Caroline C
5.0
I’m very happy with my treatment and results. I was delighted with Dr Erfan Salloum’s attention to detail, and so happy he took the time to make sure everything was perfect. Thank you. – Orlaith D
5.0
My daughter has been under the care of Dr Erfan Salloum for the past three years, as she had a lot of work to be done. She has had braces removed, and the result is stunning. We are thrilled about how well everything went. – Elizabeth G
5.0
Absolutely delighted with my results. Thank you to Dr Erfan and his team for taking care of me so well! Treatment lasted 24 months, and it was so worth it. Would recommend it to everyone! – Ang
5.0
Everyone was very nice and professional, and Dr Erfan Salloum did a great job with my braces. – Matthew C
5.0
I am very grateful to Dr Efran Salloum for taking the time to do a free video consultation with me to discuss my issue. He listened attentively to my concerns, offered insight and advised me of a range of clear options to explore for my particular issue (which concerns narrow airways). I very much appreciated his expertise, which he conveyed with kindness and without expectation. I would highly recommend Dr Efran for his expert knowledge and professionalism. – Shelagh S
5.0
My daughter had a great experience, thrilled with the results. She was treated very well at every appointment and now has a gorgeous smile thanks to Erfan and the team. – Auds C
5.0
Incredibly happy with my experience with Dr Erfan. He was a pleasure to deal with throughout the process, explained everything clearly, offered all support needed, and the results have been absolutely perfect. Ultimately, I can’t recommend Dr Erfan highly enough. He and his team are incredibly professional and highly skilled, so you’ll be in safe hands throughout your treatment. – Laurence W
5.0
We highly recommend Dr Erfan Sallom. He transformed our daughter’s teeth, and she’s extremely happy with her beautiful smile! We were looking for an Orthodontist who had a reputable history, gave excellent results, held high standards, was kind and gentle, and that is what we got. She didn’t have to get any teeth removed, which was a bonus. Really appreciated the individual time, updates, never felt rushed, and a personable approach. Thank you, Erfan. – Georgina
5.0
I was very anxious about orthodontic treatment and, as such, delayed it for years. I did not need to be nervous with the expertise and professionalism of Erfan. He was very motivational and ensured I achieved an excellent result. I am now extremely happy with my smile. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone. – Ciara K
5.0
I would really recommend anyone to Dr Erfan Salloum. My experience with Erfan was amazing. I had no issue; he was very knowledgeable about his work and was always happy to explain the next steps with my treatment and concerns, or answer any questions about my treatment plan, etc!
I would recommend Erfan to anyone, there’s no safer hands to be in than Erfan for sure! – Martin R
5.0
I have just finished my two-year orthodontic treatment with Dr Erfan, and I would highly recommend him. He explained everything perfectly about the treatment plan, and I was always treated with great care. You are in good hands! Many thanks. – Julie P
5.0
I would highly recommend Dr Erfan from start to finish. He took the time to make the entire process for our daughter as easy as possible. We are delighted with the results & she has received many compliments on her beautiful smile. – Caroline C
5.0
I’m very happy with my treatment and results. I was delighted with Dr Erfan Salloum’s attention to detail, and so happy he took the time to make sure everything was perfect. Thank you. – Orlaith D
5.0
My daughter has been under the care of Dr Erfan Salloum for the past three years, as she had a lot of work to be done. She has had braces removed, and the result is stunning. We are thrilled about how well everything went. – Elizabeth G
5.0
Absolutely delighted with my results. Thank you to Dr Erfan and his team for taking care of me so well! Treatment lasted 24 months, and it was so worth it. Would recommend it to everyone! – Ang
5.0
Everyone was very nice and professional, and Dr Erfan Salloum did a great job with my braces. – Matthew C
5.0
I am very grateful to Dr Efran Salloum for taking the time to do a free video consultation with me to discuss my issue. He listened attentively to my concerns, offered insight and advised me of a range of clear options to explore for my particular issue (which concerns narrow airways). I very much appreciated his expertise, which he conveyed with kindness and without expectation. I would highly recommend Dr Efran for his expert knowledge and professionalism. – Shelagh S
5.0
My daughter had a great experience, thrilled with the results. She was treated very well at every appointment and now has a gorgeous smile thanks to Erfan and the team. – Auds C
5.0
Incredibly happy with my experience with Dr Erfan. He was a pleasure to deal with throughout the process, explained everything clearly, offered all support needed, and the results have been absolutely perfect. Ultimately, I can’t recommend Dr Erfan highly enough. He and his team are incredibly professional and highly skilled, so you’ll be in safe hands throughout your treatment. – Laurence W
Dr Erfan Salloum is the founder and lead orthodontist at Lusk Orthodontics. Widely recognised as one of the most highly qualified orthodontists in Ireland, he specialises in complex orthodontic care, clear aligners,…
Read MORE
“We highly recommend Dr Erfan Sallom. He transformed our daughter’s teeth, and she’s extremely happy with her beautiful smile! We were looking for an Orthodontist...”
“I was very anxious about orthodontic treatment and, as such, delayed it for years. I did not need to be nervous with the expertise and...”
“I would really recommend anyone to Dr Erfan Salloum. My experience with Erfan was amazing. I had no issue; he was very knowledgeable about his...”
“I have just finished my two-year orthodontic treatment with Dr Erfan, and I would highly recommend him. He explained everything perfectly about the treatment plan,...”
Soreness after fitting and following adjustments is normal and typically settles within two to three days. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient. The braces themselves do not cause pain between appointments.
Most adolescent fixed brace treatments are completed within 18 to 24 months, though simpler cases may be shorter and more complex cases longer. An estimate is provided at the consultation.
Wind instrument players may experience a short adjustment period, but the vast majority adapt within a few weeks. This is discussed as part of the treatment planning conversation if relevant.
Contact the practice and an appointment will be arranged. Loose or broken brackets should not be left unattended as they can affect treatment progress.
Book a consultation today and let our friendly team guide you towards a healthier, more confident smile with personalised advice, modern treatments, and genuine care every step of the way.
Book a Consultation BACK TO AdolescentsAt Lusk Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer one of the most comprehensive ranges of orthodontic treatments in Dublin and across Ireland — all delivered to the highest clinical standards.
Practice
Treatments
Terms
Discover behind-the-scenes care and amazing results on our Instagram. From patient transformations to everyday moments at our clinic, our feed is filled with smiles, stories, and inspiration.
Copyright
