It is very important that these instructions are followed carefully, to obtain the best possible orthodontic results. Your COMPLETE COOPERATION will help increase the speed and improve the Outcome of your treatment.
Your teeth and appliances MUST be kept clean. It is best to brush after EVERY meal and be sure to gently massage your gums. The bands should remain bright and shiny and your gums should stay pink and firm. Failure to maintain good oral hygiene can lead to permanent white spots on your teeth, decay, and/or gum disease. In extreme cases it may force us to discontinue treatment before an ideal result is achieved.
You need to be consistent with the wear of elastics if you are asked to wear them during your treatment. Inconsistent elastic wear will absolutely lengthen your treatment time and may influence the quality of bite correction.
You must be careful with the types of food you eat!
Please avoid ALL HARD AND STICKY FOODS, such as: Hard candy, ice cubes, gum, whole nuts, popcorn, chewy caramels, whole apples, raw carrots, corn-on-the-cob.
Hard and sticky foods will damage the appliances and may cause a delay in your treatment time. If you notice any breakage of the wires or if any bands or brackets come loose, call our office for an appointment. Some breakages may be unavoidable, but limiting them will speed up treatment time. Each loose bracket will usually lengthen treatment time by at least a month.
Please do not tamper with your braces. lf a wire is causing gum or cheek irritation, place wax over the offending area and call our office if irritation continues. Chapstick may be used for your lips until they get used to your braces.
It is very important that scheduled appointments are kept. If a conflict arises, please notify our office as soon as possible so your time may be filled in by others needing treatment. After school appointments are in great demand so we will do our best to give you a convenient appointment time.
Even though you see us once a month, you still need to see your regular dentist for exams and cleanings.
Sore Teeth
After braces are placed in the mouth it is normal for the teeth to be sore for about 2 to 3 days. Tylenol or Advil/ Motrin will help relieve this discomfort. Some irritation to the cheeks and tongue is normal, but please call our office if you feel anything sharp is poking you.