We are proud to operate a full-service orthodontic practice. Braces, as well as surgical orthodontics, are used where appropriate.
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What Can I Expect?
What Can I Expect at My First Appointment?
At the first appointment an initial or screening examination is performed to determine if you would benefit from braces.
If the answer is 'yes', a decision will be made whether it should be handled by a resident or referred to a faculty member. There is no charge for the initial examination.
What Is a Records Appointment?
If treatment is indicated, an appointment for complete records can be arranged. The records appointment includes:
- Radiographs of the teeth to determine bony support and health of the dentition.
- A film of the skull to see the relationship of the teeth to the jaws and the jaws to one another.
- Photographs of the face to assess the profile and the effect any proposed tooth or jaw movement may have.
- Models of your teeth for both diagnostic purposes and a baseline for evaluating progress.
- A thorough clinical exam to check for cavities and gum disease.
- A review of your medical history and underlying physical problems, medications and supplements that could impact orthodontic therapy.
What Is a Consultation Appointment?
After careful study of the records, a diagnosis and plan of treatment are formed. During the consultation appointment treatment options to correct the malocclusion are discussed. This will include risks and benefits of the proposed treatment(s), the need for cooperation and care of the mouth while the treatment is taking place, and long-term retention of the orthodontic result.
Questions and discussion between the patient, the orthodontist, and the parent (if the patient is a minor) are encouraged. If everyone agrees to the proposed treatment, an appointment to begin the necessary procedures will be arranged.
Orthodontic Care
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups every 6 months with your private dentist should be maintained throughout orthodontic treatment.
Tooth Brushing
Oral hygiene is of utmost importance during orthodontic treatment. Failure to remove plaque from teeth and braces will cause an increased incidence of cavities and permanent white and brown staining on the teeth.
Tooth brushing should be done at least 2 to 3 times per day. It should be done gently around all sides of the teeth and wires, and especially around the gum line. Brushing time should be approximately 5 minutes.
Brushing before bed should be supplemented with a fluoride rinse, which is available without a doctors prescription (Fluoroguard or ACT). This rinse should not be swallowed. Following the rinse, eating or drinking should be avoided until morning.
Common Problems & Solutions
Loose band or bracket
The seal created by the glue used to adhere the band or bracket to the tooth has been broken. Call and schedule an appointment.
Broken archwire or headgear, lost ligature or hook
These problems could cause the teeth to shift in the wrong direction and must be corrected immediately. Call and schedule an appointment.
Loose or excessive wire that is causing irritation
Try to tuck it in using the eraser head of a pencil. If not try using the wax and placing it on the wire where it is irritating you after drying the wire with a napkin.
Soreness
To relieve soreness, rinse your mouth with warm salt water and/or take ibuprofen (Advil) or acetometaphen (Tylenol) as directed.
Problem Foods When Patients Have Braces
Eating proper foods, minimizing sugar intake, and getting enough sleep are essential during orthodontic treatment. Your braces are precise appliances that can be damaged by eating hard foods. Some soft and sticky foods can cause tooth decay and loosen or dislodge your braces.
Forbidden Hard Foods
- Hard candy
- Corn chips
- Popcorn
- Jerky
- Ice
- Nuts
- Pizza crust
- Corn on the cob
- Whole fruits and vegetables
(that are not cut into smaller pieces and cooked)
Forbidden Soft Foods
- Bubble gum
- Gum
- Sticky candy
- Drinks high in sugars