CONVENTIONAL METAL BRACES

Metal braces are known to all and has been there in practice since ages. They are  the oldest and most conventional form of braces that we all must have seen in at least one mouth we have come across. Metal braces are attached to the front surfaces of teeth and are most effective. The brackets and wire are both made of metal. They basically work by bringing desired movement of teeth in upper and lower jaws.

What advantage do metal braces have?

• Affordable
• Effective but can take time to bring the desired tooth movements.
• Can be used in major and complicated cases as well.

What are the disadvantages?

• Easily visible
• Need ligature (rubber) rings for attachment of wires.
• Difficult to control oral hygiene and with these rubber bands, treatment takes a longer time.

Frequently Asked Questions On Braces

Frequently Asked Questions On Braces

1. What is the correct age to get braces done?
Ideally the first orthodontic check up should be done by a braces specialist at 7 years of age. Although, there is no maximum age to get braces done. Braces can correct teeth alignment irrespective of the age or gender, what is important is to have a proper oral hygiene and healthy teeth and gums.

2. Will the braces hurt?
Braces nowadays are a painless treatment procedure. You might feel little pressure when you get your wires changed but that only lasts for a couple of hours and is absolutely tolerable.
Furthermore there are options of painless braces and clear braces too. Visit the orthodontist to know about them.

3. How many times do I have to brush my teeth after I get braces?
With braces treatment, maintaining  proper oral hygiene is a necessity.
You should brush 20 minutes after having your meal and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.

4. Can I use a regular toothbrush to brush my teeth while having braces?
No. You need to use ortho brush or braces specific brush for brushing while having braces treatment. The regular toothbrush would not be able to clean the teeth effectively and also the bristles might interfere with the buttons/braces.
Enquire from your braces doctor about the best toothbrush for braces.

5.  How long will the braces treatment take usually?
It depends on the status of your teeth and severity of crooked teeth. 
Usually the treatment takes 6 months to 1.5 years . You will get to know once you come and visit the braces specialist more appropriately about the treatment plan and duration.

6. How frequently do I have to visit the doctor during my braces treatment?
Once you start with your braces treatment you will be expected to visit every 21 days for a follow up and to change the wires if needed.
Also the doctor might add some e chain or other elements depending on status of the teeth.

7. I don’t want wires and braces to show? Do I have an esthetic option too?
Yes. With the latest advancements there is no need for wires and braces. The most esthetic option which is virtually invisible and much trending is clear aligners / Invisalign.
Invisalign are like customized removable trays which can be worn and removed easily by the patients themselves, even kids and they aid in teeth alignment. 

8. How much do the braces treatment cost?
It depends on severity of the case. But usually the braces treatment cost varies from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 1,40,000 

9. What precautions do I have to take with braces?

• Maintain your oral hygiene
• Avoid having hard and sticky food eg gummies, cheese pizzas (bite size can be taken) , chicken legs, caramel chocolates.

10. What to do if my wire breaks or any brace becomes loose?
Inform your braces doctor and take an appointment as soon as possible. Apply ortho wax if the wire is poking and avoid eating from that area.