Common Problems
There are few true Orthodontics emergencies. Most issues can be taken care of at home. If you find that you are unable to resolve an issue, call us and we will fit you in for a repair appointment.
*Your teeth may become sore after some of your visits. This is completely normal and to be expected. If you find that your teeth are sore you may take non-asprin pain relievers.
*From time to time you may experience a "pokey wire" this is when a wire has slipped out of the very last bracket. If it has slipped out you can use tweezers to help guide it back into the bracket tube. If you are unable to do this youself and it is the weekend you can put wax on the wire to help prevent it from poking your cheek.
*As your teeth move closer together the wire may end up sticking out the back of the brackets. This can be uncomfortable and cause mouth sores. You may use wax to cover that part of the wire to stop any discomfort. We will clip the wire at your next appointment. If the wire has left sores or cuts, call us and we will set up an emergency appointment for you.
* If you have a bracket that has come off of the tooth, that is called a broken bracket. This needs to replaced as soon as we can fit you in please, call the office as soon as you can so that we can make time for this type of appointment.
Call us if you have any issues and we will be happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why use an Orthodontist?
A. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training. Teeth and sometimes facial structures are permanently changed by Orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed.
Q. Will my teeth get straighter as I grow?
A. No they will not. In fact they may get worst.
Q. How long will I be in braces?
A. Treatment time is different for everyone. The average time is around 18-20 months.
Q. Will having braces hurt?
A. After certain visits your may feel some soreness for a couple of days. Non-asprin pain relievers can be take to alleviate that discomfort.
Q. Are there foods that I can not eat while in braces?
A. Yes. Once you have your braces on, we will go over all things you can no longer eat and the things you should eat differently. Following these rules will help to minimize excessive broken brackets and wire repairs.
Q. Can I have braces even though I have missing teeth and crowns?
A. Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like any other tooth. With missing teeth, the Doctor can straighten the remaining teeth.
Q. Can my child play sports while wearing braces?
A. Yes. But wearing a protective mouth guard is advised while riding a bike, skating, or playing any contact sports, whether organized sports or a neighborhood game.
Q. Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
A. Playing wind or brass instruments, such as the trumpet, will clearly require some adaptation to braces. With practice and a period of adjustment, braces typically do not interfere with the playing of musical instruments.
Q. Why does orthodontic treatment time sometimes last longer than anticipated?
A. Estimates of treatment time can only be that - estimates. Patients grow at different rates and will respond in their own ways to orthodontic treatment. The orthodontist has specific treatment goals in mind, and will usually continue treatment until these goals are achieved. Patient cooperation, however, is the single best predictor of staying on time with treatment. Patients who cooperate by wearing rubber bands, headgear or other needed appliances as directed, while taking care not to damage appliances, will most often lead to on-time and excellent treatment results.
