Metal Braces in Seoul
Fixed metal brackets and wires for precise control of tooth movement, from simple crowding to complex bite correction, planned and adjusted by our orthodontic department in Gangnam.
- Since 2002
- 13 dentists
- In-house lab
- EN · 中文 · 日本語
What are metal braces and how long do they take?
Metal braces are stainless steel brackets bonded to the teeth and linked by a wire that is adjusted every 4 to 8 weeks to guide tooth movement. They suit crowding, gaps, rotations and bite problems, including complex cases. At Gangnam One Day Dental Clinic, Dr. Kim Do-hoon leads treatment, which typically lasts 18 to 30 months.
Reviewed by Dr. Kim Do-hoon , Chief Director, Orthodontics · Updated October 5, 2026
Why metal braces are still widely used
Fixed metal braces give the orthodontist continuous, three-dimensional control of each tooth. They work all day without relying on the patient to wear anything, which makes results predictable in complex cases.
They treat crowding, spacing, rotated teeth, overbite, underbite and crossbite. Many overbite and extraction cases are planned with fixed braces for this reason.
Conventional vs self-ligating brackets
Conventional brackets hold the wire with small elastic ties that are replaced at each visit. Self-ligating brackets use a built-in clip instead. We offer both; read about Clippy-C self-ligating braces to compare.
If appearance is the main concern, lingual braces behind the teeth or clear aligners may be an alternative, depending on your bite.
Not sure if this is right for you? Send a photo or X-ray — a dentist replies on WhatsApp in English, Chinese or Japanese.
Get a free opinionCaring for teeth with braces
Food and plaque collect around brackets. Brush after meals, use interdental brushes and attend cleanings. Poor hygiene during braces can leave permanent white marks on the enamel.
- Avoid hard foods (nuts, ice, hard candy) and sticky foods (caramel, gum)
- Cut firm foods such as apples into small pieces
- Use orthodontic wax if a bracket rubs your cheek
- Message the clinic on WhatsApp if a bracket comes loose
| Metal braces | Self-ligating | Clear aligners | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control in complex cases | High | High | Moderate |
| Visibility | Visible | Visible | Nearly invisible |
| Elastic ties | Yes | No (built-in clip) | None |
| Patient compliance | Low | Low | High |
| Typical duration | 18–30 months | 18–30 months | 6–24 months |
How it works at Oneday Dental
- Visit 1
Examination
X-rays, photos and scan; diagnosis by the orthodontist.
- Visit 2
Bonding
Brackets bonded and first wire placed, usually in 1–2 hours.
- Every 4–8 weeks
Adjustments
Wires changed or bent to continue tooth movement.
- Final months
Detailing
Fine adjustments to perfect the bite and alignment.
- Debond
Removal and retainers
Brackets removed, teeth polished and retainers fitted.
Things to know before you decide
- Tenderness for a few days after bonding and after each adjustment.
- White spots or decay if brushing around brackets is poor.
- Brackets can break with hard food, requiring a repair visit.
- Mild root shortening is a known effect of orthodontic movement.
- Regular visits every 4–8 weeks make braces hard for patients living abroad.
Experience you can check
- 2002Founded in Gangnam — 24 years
- 13Dentists in 5 departments
- 3Clinic buildings, 1,570 m²
- 0.01 mmT-Scan bite-force detail
Leads the orthodontics department (Building 3): braces, lingual, Invisalign & surgical orthodontics
Metal Braces: common questions
How much do metal braces cost in Seoul?
Do metal braces work faster than aligners?
Can adults get metal braces?
What should I do if a bracket comes off?
Will I need to wear a retainer after braces?
You may also want to read
Orthodontics in Seoul
Orthodontics in Seoul led by Dr. Kim Do-hoon: braces, Invisalign, clear aligners and protrusion correction…
Learn more →Clippy-C Braces
Clippy-C self-ligating braces in Seoul: built-in clip brackets with no elastic ties, easier cleaning and fewer parts.
Learn more →Braces Cost Guide
Affordable braces in Seoul: what drives orthodontic cost, which option is usually cheapest, and hidden extras to…
Learn more →Overbite Treatment
Overbite treatment in Seoul: deep bite causes, braces vs aligners, when surgery is needed and typical time frames.
Learn more →Clear Aligners
Clear aligners in Seoul for residents: how removable trays straighten teeth, who suits them and how they compare…
Learn more →Browse: Dental Implants · Cosmetic Dentistry · Orthodontics · Gum Care · General Dentistry · International Patients · Home
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Send your question, photos or X-ray. We reply with a plan, timeline and estimate in English, Chinese, Japanese or Korean.
