ABOUT OUR PRACTICE
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about...
Food
The appliance or bands you are wearing are not indestructible. The list of "foods to avoid" includes: Fritos, Doritos, or any chip snacks, gum, taffy, hard rolls, pizza crust, hard pretzels, sticky, chewy, and hard foods. Avoid chewing on ice, eating licorice, hard toast, biting into apples and raw carrots (slice them) and peanut brittle. Candied apples (on a stick), biting into hard ice cream pops, popsicles, caramels, and any other chewy candies are also on the "foods to avoid list". Also do not chew on pens, pencils, or other hard objects.
Basically, nothing chewy, sticky or hard. Let common sense prevail!
Decay/Decalcification
Your teeth may decay underneath orthodontic bands if the bands are loose. At each appointment we make certain that your bands are tight. However, if you notice a loose band or bracket, call us as soon as possible so that we can set up a repair appointment. A more frequent problem, but one that you can easily prevent, is decalcification or staining of the teeth. This may occur on areas of a tooth adjacent to the band if you do not brush your teeth thoroughly after each meal. Orthopedic appliances DO NOT cause decay/decalcification; not maintaining good oral hygiene can. So you see, preventing this problem is pretty simple, and it is up to you!
Soreness
Your teeth will usually feel sore for three to five days after most orthodontic appointments. It helps to avoid hard foods or vigorous chewing until the soreness disappears. If you feel very uncomfortable, take whatever you normally do for discomfort (Advil, Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc.) If the discomfort persists beyond several days, please call us.
Heat and Cold
During orthodontic treatment, you may find that your teeth may be sensitive to heat and cold. This is caused by the movement of your teeth; it is seldom due to decay.
Sports Mouthguards
All of our patients are strongly urged and expected to wear mouthguards during sports participation. Mouthguards must fit properly, as too tight a fit might prohibit tooth movement or cause breakage of appliances.
Musical Instruments
Generally, playing a wind instrument won't interfere with your orthodontic treatment unless you practice many hours a day. At first the appliance may irritate your lips. If this becomes a problem, please let us know.
Other Dentistry
The fees for orthodontic treatment do not include any treatment in other dental offices such as cleaning, examinations, x-rays, restorations, or the removal of teeth. Our patients are strongly urged and expected to visit their family dentist at least every 6 months for their routine check-ups. Adult patients may wish to visit their dentist more frequently. We advise every 3 to 4 months.
Emergencies
If you have an emergency on a weekend or on a day that the office is closed, please call the office phone number. The message will direct you to a person that is capable of handling your emergency. If you are unable to contact us, contact your family dentist or an alternative emergency facility. View our emergencies page.
[ Back to Top]
