Looking after your metal braces 

May 1, 2017 | Advanced Dental Treatments

Traditional metal braces have evolved over the years, going from a heavy-duty design to a lighter more comfortable design. The first metal brace designs originate from around 1819 and are still a basis upon which other models are created.

Metal braces can be used to treat a variety of age ranges and orthodontic issues. Children have the option of tooth-coloured wires which we find often gives them more of an incentive for treatment if they are particularly anxious or adverse to this!

 

Teeth with dental braces. Orthodontic Treatment. Dental care Concept.

What can metal braces be used to treat? 

Metal braces are versatile and can be used to treat various orthodontic issues such has the following;

  • Overlapping teeth/very close together/spacing/gaps between teeth.
  • Overbite – overlap between the top and bottom front teeth.
  • Underbite – lower teeth overlap top teeth.
  • Cross bite – your bite does not line up.
  • Openbite – inadequate vertical overlap of teeth.
  • Misplaced midline – centre lines of upper and lower teeth do not align.

 

Ceramic braces 

Ceramic braces are traditional metal braces with a cosmetic advantage. The brackets are clear-coloured and wires are tooth-coloured which gives them a discreet look. Ceramic braces are popular with older patients who do not want their appearance to change at work.

 

  • Avoid chewy foods like caramel and toffee as well as hard and crunchy foods that can become lodged between the brackets of your brace. As you cannot remove your brace, it is difficult to clean your teeth, so try to keep these foods to a minimum.
  • Maintain a solid brushing and flossing routine – Again, as metal braces are not removable you need to brush and floss regularly and apply method, covering all tooth surfaces. Many patients fail to apply a healthy dental hygiene routine and develop higher levels of plaque and tartar than if they were not wearing braces. If you are unsure about how to keep your teeth clean during treatment, please do not hesitate to ask your dentist here at Shields. Removable brace options are also available if you feel it may be a challenge to put the extra necessary time into your dental hygiene during the fixed braces treatment period.

 

If you would like to talk to us about possible orthodontic treatment, please do not hesitate to contact us and we can arrange a consultation for you.

 

Recent Articles

Similar Articles