GENERAL SORENESS

It is normal to be uncomfortable following your braces being placed or being adjusted.  Eating softer foods and taking whatever medication you take for a headache will help you get through this time.  Placing wax to cover any areas that may irritate the lips, cheeks, or tongue will also help.  Also to be expected is mobility in the teeth.  This is normal progress in your orthodontic treatment.

LOOSE WIRE OR BAND

Occasionally a wire, band, or bracket will become loose, don’t be alarmed.  If it is a wire, use a pencil eraser to gently tuck the protruding wire out of the way.  If irritation continues, place wax on the area.  Telephone our office immediately, EVEN IF YOU ALREADY HAVE AN APPOINTMENT, so we can adjust the amount of time needed to make the repair.

APPOINTMENT TIMES

Please come on time and at your scheduled appointment time.  If you cannot keep your scheduled appointment time, please call so we may reschedule.  This will help us to see all of our patients in a timely manner.

DO NOT EAT:

STICKY – gum, caramel, fruit roll ups, lollipops
CHEWY – Snickers, gummi bears, jelly beans, Skittles
HARD – popcorn, nuts, large pretzels, ice cubes, hard candy

CHANGE HOW YOU EAT

  • Pizza crust, bagels, fruits and vegetables can be cut into small pieces and eaten on back teeth only.
  • Cut corn off the cob.
  • Ribs, chicken, pork need to be cut off the bone.

ORAL HYGIENE

Brushing and flossing are extremely important, especially during your orthodontic treatment. When plaque builds up around braces and is not properly cleaned, the enamel will decalcify and cause permanent white marks. We recommend frequent replacement of interproximal (proxy) brushes, floss threaders and soft toothbrushes, all of which can be purchased at your local grocery store or drug store.  If at any time during your treatment you need a review of oral hygiene technique, we would be happy to go over it with you.

ATHLETICS

DO NOT USE HEAT AND MOLD MOUTHGUARDS.  Please purchase a mouth guard for orthodontic use.  In case of an accident involving the face, check your mouth for any broken wires and/or brackets and call the office.  (SEE LOOSE WIRE OR BAND)

COOPERATION

Success of treatment depends on cooperation between you and Dr. Ellen and our staff.  Wear headgear and elastics as instructed, avoid the foods that can be damaging, and handle emergencies promptly.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO HELPING YOU ACHIEVE YOUR GOAL.