BRACES
PUTTING ON YOUR BRACES
The procedure for putting braces on is a very easy and painless experience, but one that many new patients often worry about. Be assured that our friendly team will be available to answer any questions you may have beforehand.
- 1 to 2 hours to put on braces
- Installed by an Orthodontist or Appliance Specialist
- Expect some soreness afterwards
- Not unpleasant, like some patients expect
ADJUSTMENTS
The appointments also give the orthodontist an opportunity to evaluate the tooth movement and make the necessary recommendations in treatment. Since the teeth are constantly moving during treatment, every adjustment presents a new set of circumstances for us to evaluate.
- Every 4 to 7 weeks
- 20 to 40 minutes
- Please be on time, or let us know if you'll be late or need to cancel [contact us]
(24 hour cancellation notice is appreciated)
MAINTENANCE
Keeping braces, teeth and gums clean is the most important thing a patient can do. By following your orthodontist’s instructions on oral hygiene you can maintain healthy teeth and a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime!
- Good brushing & oral hygiene are necessary for the success of your treatment
- Protect your braces from hard/chewy foods & ice
- Brush carefully
- Report any breakage immediately [contact us]
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SORENESS
When teeth begin to move, the tissues around them can become inflamed causing soreness. It will always improve within a couple of days for young people and four to five days for adults. Continuing to wear your elastics anyway will actually improve the soreness, but there are other options for managing it as well.
Treat with warm saltwater rinses
Frequent brushing
Sugar-free, stick-free gum
Over-the-Counter pain relievers such as aspirin, Tylenol or Ibuprofen
RUBBER BANDS
Rubber bands, officially called "elastics", are the "engine" that drive your treatment. You won't wear them at first, but after you are well into your treatment, they are necessary to move your teeth to the proper places.
HOW TO WEAR RUBBER BANDS
Class II & Class III PDF
Anterior & Bilateral Boxes PDF
Crossbites PDF
[Order Elastics Online]
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TAKING OFF YOUR BRACES
Getting your braces off usually comes as a surprise to patients. Although the doctor may give them some hints ["We're getting really close"], he won't say for sure until everything is just right. The removal may be done by the orthodontist or the Appliance Technician / General Dentist. |
1st Visit
Braces are removed from the upper anterior six teeth & sometimes, the lower posterior teeth.
Patients wear rubber bands at nights only, and gum is to be chewed as much as possible to "settle in" the bite.
2nd Visit [usually 1-2 weeks later]
Remaining braces & cement are removed.
Impressions are taken for retainers.
3rd Visit [usually 2 weeks later]
Retainers installed.
Optional bleaching.
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It's been a long haul together, but "We just can't wait to see you smile!" |
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