Metal braces, what you should know

Carrying metal brackets has been the most traditional and conservative treatment in orthodontics for many years. Also known as fixed brackets, are the most used but also the least aesthetic. But, do you know everything about metal brackets?

Having the teeth in a correct position is fundamental not only aesthetically, but also functionally. Having crowded or widely spaced teeth makes it difficult to chew and oral hygiene routine. In this sense the metal brackets allow to correct virtually any dental problem related to the position of the teeth, bite and occlusion problems … These are the main complications that can be solved with fixed brackets:

  • Teeth that are widely spaced.
  • Dental crowding
  • Crooked teeth, accidents or birth.
  • Bite problems: bad occlusion and defective bite.

5 keys on metal brackets

The main objective of the brackets, like the other orthodontic treatments, is to move the teeth towards an aesthetic and functional position. That is, get a well-aligned smile.

  • How are the metal brackets?

These devices are made up of different fundamental parts: the arc, the ligatures and the brackets. The arch applies pressure to the teeth with the help of ligatures, which join the brackets to the arch. These ligatures can be metallic and rubber, and in many cases gums are placed to correct the bite problems. Through periodic check-ups, the orthodontist can modify the pressure as the treatment progresses. In this way, the brackets progressively correct the position of the teeth, until it is perfectly aligned.

  • Advantages and disadvantages of metal brackets

The main advantage of these brackets is that it is the most economical option to correct the smile. They are also very resistant devices compared to other orthodontic treatments. On the other hand, the main disadvantage of conventional metal brackets is that they are very visible and alter the aesthetics of the smile. This can be a problem for many patients concerned about their personal image. However, metal brackets are usually the fastest way to correct the smile, which is why it is the most economical and effective treatment. If you are deeply concerned about aesthetics, porcelain brackets are a good alternative to correct the smile while preserving aesthetics.

  • Power with brackets

Both with metal brackets and porcelain braces it is advisable to maintain a series of care with food. These treatments do not prohibit any food, but there are some that it is better to avoid.

The most harmful foods are hard and sticky foods. Nuts, chickpeas, nougat, chewing gum … This type of food is harmful to brackets and can break them. Also, if the food sticks together they favor the accumulation of bacterial plaque, which causes the development of infections.

To avoid these complications, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet. Maintaining a balanced diet is important to maintain good oral health. In the case of patients with brackets, the consumption of fruits is recommended. However, it is recommended to avoid acids such as lemon, as they can erode the enamel. It is also advisable to eat soft fruits such as strawberries, or blueberries. On the other hand, it is preferable not to cut food with your teeth. Some hard foods such as sandwiches or chocolate may damage the appliances when cut.

  • Complications with metal brackets

In most cases the treatment does not present many complications. The main urgencies with these devices are that a bracket falls down, or that the bow takes off. This can cause the gum and cheek to become clogged, causing bleeding or mouth irritation. The most important thing to avoid these complications is to follow the orthodontist’s instructions and maintain a good oral hygiene routine. In a first stage the metal brackets require a period of adaptation. It is usually the first weeks and the patient may feel friction, discomfort and sores in the mucosa of the mouth.

  • Hygiene routine with brackets

Brackets tend to generate areas of oral biofilm retention or bacterial plaque. It is therefore essential to brush your teeth after each meal, with care and gentle movements so as not to damage the appliances. To complement brushing, many dentists recommend oral irrigation. It is one of the most recommended techniques for orthodontic patients, since it eliminates the remains of embedded bacteria by means of pressurized water. Another great ally to eliminate the remains of bacteria is dental floss, although it is advisable to have a good technique to avoid damage to the brackets.

If you have any questions about the treatment of metal brackets, consult with our professionals without obligation. At the Prop Dental clinics we carry out a personalized study to adapt the orthodontic treatment to the needs of your smile.