die Zahnspange
braces
An orthodontic device made of metal or plastic that is used to correct misaligned teeth and jaws.
EXAMPLE
Viele Jugendliche müssen für einige Jahre eine Zahnspange tragen.
Many teenagers have to wear braces for several years.
die Zahnspange
braces
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is made up of 'Zahn' (tooth) and 'Spange' (clip/brace). A 'Spange' is a clasp, clip, or holder. So a 'Zahnspange' is literally a 'clip for the teeth'.
EXAMPLE
Meine kleine Schwester bekommt bald eine Zahnspange.
My little sister is getting braces soon.
Typical verbs
In connection with braces, the verbs 'tragen' (to wear), 'bekommen' (to get), and 'einsetzen' (to put in/fit) are often used. The verb 'tragen' describes the state of having braces.
EXAMPLE
Ich musste als Teenager zwei Jahre lang eine Zahnspange tragen.
As a teenager, I had to wear braces for two years.
Use with time expressions
The length of time someone wears them is often given with the preposition 'für' (for). Typical sentences describe how long someone has to, or had to, wear braces.
EXAMPLE
Der Arzt sagt, sie muss die Zahnspange für etwa ein Jahr tragen.
The doctor says she has to wear the braces for about a year.
In real life
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