FAQs
Invisalign FAQs
Braces FAQs
When your braces are placed, some aspects of your life will change. You will be on your way to getting a brand new smile and that’s exciting! However, you will also have to make some important changes to accommodate your new appliances.
Upkeep
To get the best results from your treatment, your appliance needs to remain in working order. To maintain your appliance free of damage, avoid foods that can damage the wires and brackets. If you participate in any sports, ask us about a custom mouth guard to protect your teeth and braces. It is also very important that you brush your teeth and braces after every meal.Loose Teeth
You may notice that your teeth feel loose after you have your braces placed. Don’t let this bother you, it is completely normal and expected. As your teeth loosen up, the surrounding bone remodels and allows the teeth to move to their new positions. Once your treatment is completed, you will be prescribed a retainer to allow you’re bone to grow and harden around the teeth’ new position.Loose Wires and Bands
It is relatively common for the wires and bands to become loose. If you notice this, call our office so we can evaluate the status of your appliance and make repairs if needed. If any part of your braces comes off, place it in a plastic bag and bring it with you to your appointment.If a wire is poking you, we recommend pushing it back gently into place using a spoon. You also might be able to alleviate the discomfort by clipping it carefully. Be sure to call us to schedule an appointment so that we can offer you a permanent solution.
To find out more about what you can expect from a life with braces, schedule a consultation to learn more.
Foods to avoid with braces:
- Chewy foods - bagels, gummy candies
- Crunchy foods - hard pretzels, chips, ice
- Sticky foods - Skittles, bubble gum
- Hard foods - nuts, hard candies
- Foods that require biting into - corn on the cob, apples, carrots
- Dairy - soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks
- Breads - soft tortillas, waffles, muffins without nuts
- Grains - pasta, rice
- Meats/poultry - chicken, meatloaf, lunch meats
- Seafood - tuna, salmon, crab cakes
- Vegetables - mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, beans
- Fruits - applesauce, bananas, fruit juice
- Treats - ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, soft cake
After Hours Care FAQs
First, If your situation is in fact a real emergency, head to the nearest ER If your teeth, mouth, gums, or jaw have been injured or suffered direct trauma, go directly to the ER. Once there, you can call our practice for additional support and/or follow-up treatment.