Metal Braces in Cincinnati, Ohio

What Are Orthodontic Metal Braces?

Metal braces are comprised of metal brackets that are adhered to the surface of each of your teeth. They’re held together with a thin metal wire that runs through the brackets and gently applies pressure, slowly moving them into the desired position over time. Because they’re glued to your teeth, they cannot be removed until your treatment process is over (usually between eighteen months and two years, depending on the condition of your teeth).

Metal braces can resolve many oral health problems, including:

• Overcrowding
• Gapped teeth
• Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• Crooked teeth
• Uneven teeth
• Misaligned jaw

A good bracer candidate is someone who would like to improve the appearance, function, and health of their smile and also practices good oral hygiene habits.

What Are the Benefits of Getting Metal Braces?

Straight teeth don’t only look beautiful; they can also make it easier to maintain good oral health for a lifetime. If your uneven, crooked, or overcrowded teeth are negatively impacting your life, metal braces may be able to help. Here are some of the many benefits that metal braces can provide:

• Enhancing the natural beauty of your smile
• Improving the normal function of your teeth, including chewing 
• Boosting self-esteem
• Improving overall oral health
• Making it easier to clean your teeth properly

Care and Maintenance of Metal Braces

While it’s always important to care for your teeth and gums by practicing good oral health habits daily, it’s particularly important while undergoing orthodontic treatment. The metal brackets and wires of your braces make it easier for food particles and bacteria to get stuck, which can be a breeding ground for dental problems, including cavities and gum disease. For this reason, you must take the time to keep your teeth clean while wearing braces. Here are some tips to keep your teeth healthy while wearing orthodontic metal braces:

• Brush in the morning and at night
• Floss and use mouthwash daily
• Drink water during and after meals to wash away food debris
• Visit the dentist twice a year for routine dental exams and professional cleanings

Along with protecting your teeth, it’s important to protect your braces from damage while wearing them. This may require certain lifestyle changes, including avoiding some foods that could cause your braces to break and lead to longer treatment times. Keep these tips in mind to keep your metal braces in tip-top shape:

• Avoid foods that are particularly hard, chewy, or sticky, including raw vegetables, dense pieces of bread, and chewy candy
• Wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports
• Don’t chew on hard objects, such as ice, fingernails, and pencils
• Use brace wax when needed to prevent your brackets from irritating the inside of your mouth