FAQ - Information Sheets

Information Sheets
Brushing | Elastic Instructions | Foods | Headgear | Removable Appliances | Repairs | Retainer Instructions | Separators

FAQ

  1. When should I bring in my child for an orthodontic assessment?
  2. Does my dentist need to make a referral if I want to have an orthodontic assessment?
  3. Are children being treated at a younger age than in the past?
  4. When is the ideal time to start treatement?
  5. Can adults straighten their teeth?
  6. How long will it take to straighten my teeth?
  7. How often do I have to come in for appointments?
  8. Will I need to wear retainers when my treatment is finished?
  9. How much does orthodontics cost?

FAQ

  1. When should I bring in my child for an orthodontic assessment?

    The American and Canadian Association of Orthodontists suggest that the ideal time for an orthodontic consultation for your child is when the permanent front teeth and first molars erupt into the mouth (usually by age 7).

    For some children, an early screening indicates a need for immediate treatment, since some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early. For other children, whose treatment may be months or years away, a screening will help the patient/family establish a relationship with our office. As well, an early examination provides the orthodontist with a baseline of the bite and jaw position for future comparison. Alternatively, an early screening may suggest that no treatment is needed, putting the parents’ and patients’ minds at ease.

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  2. Does my dentist need to make a referral if I want to have an orthodontic assessment?

    Your family dentist does not need to make a specific referral for you to come to our office. In fact, we welcome referrals from our patients. We are always pleased to meet with you for an orthodontic consultation to discuss your concerns and make recommendations.

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  3. Are children being treated at a younger age than in the past?

    No. Although some orthodontic problems have been shown to be treated effectively at an early age, most orthodontic patients are still treated once all of the primary teeth have fallen out.

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  4. When is the ideal time to start treatment?

    Every case is unique and not all orthodontic problems are treated in the same manner. It is therefore difficult to suggest an ideal time that would apply to all patients. Orthodontic treatment is most commonly initiated during adolescence when most, if not all, of the permanent teeth have erupted into the mouth.

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  5. Can adults straighten their teeth?

    It is never too late to undergo orthodontic treatment, since healthy teeth can be moved at any age. In fact, adult orthodontic treatment has never been more popular. Nearly one million adults are wearing braces today- twice as many as 10 years ago. Many adults who may not have had the opportunity to receive orthodontic treatment as children are deciding to correct that bothersome smile, or those crowded and difficult-to-clean teeth.

    People should expect to keep their teeth for a lifetime and orthodontics can play a key role in reaching this goal. Today, with the significant technological advances in the field of orthodontics, treatment can progress more easily and comfortably for patients and in less time than in the past. There are “braces to suit all faces”, coming in silver, clear, and even invisible braces. As a team, together with your dentist, we can achieve beautiful and healthy smiles that last a lifetime.

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  6. How long will it take to straighten my teeth?

    It is difficult to suggest a standard length of treatment since every case is different. In general, the treatment time is determined by the complexity of the initial problem or malocclusion, as well as the goals of the treatment. An average orthodontic treatment will generally last 24-30 months. Simpler orthodontic problems could be treated in approximately a year, while more complex cases could extend to three years. At your initial consultation appointment, YOUR estimated treatment time will be explained. One must keep in mind that patient cooperation is an important factor in ensuring that treatment is completed on schedule.

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  7. How often do I have to come in for appointments?

    Generally we see our patients for routine adjustments every six to eight weeks. Depending on the nature of the treatment, this may vary. Typical appointments are approximately 20-30 minutes in length. We recognize that our patients’ time is valuable and we work very hard to see everyone on schedule.

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  8. Will I need to wear retainers when my treatment is finished?

    Yes. During the retention period the teeth will settle into their new positions. There is always some of this settling of the teeth and bite during and after the retention period. Throughout life, the position of a person’s teeth is constantly changing. This is true with all individuals regardless of whether they have had orthodontic treatment or not. In addition, teeth have a memory and tend to shift back towards their original position. Therefore, you MUST wear your retainers as instructed in order to minimize any post-treatment relapse or crowding.

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  9. How much does orthodontics cost?

    The cost of orthodontics relates to the complexity of the treatment that is required. Since every person’s bite and smile is unique, the cost of providing the appropriate treatment will vary. The cost of orthodontic treatment is however, more affordable than you might think. Our staff will work with you to set up a flexible payment arrangement that will extend over your treatment time. Please feel free to talk to us about how we can set up a manageable payment plan that suits your needs. We will also provide you with an insurance predetermination/estimate for you to send to your insurance carrier.

    When one considers that the psychological and physical benefits of orthodontics last a lifetime, treatment is not only affordable but also a wonderful investment.

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Information Sheets

Brushing

It is absolutely essential that you keep your teeth, gums, and braces spotlessly clean. If brushing is not adequate, permanent staining (eg. brown or white spots) and cavities could develop. Keeping your braces clean is accomplished by brushing a minimum of 3 times per day for 3 minutes and flossing once a day. Our office strongly encourages this to avoid the risk of developing unhealthy gums. If any of the following symptoms occur (redness, bleeding and swelling), please feel free to ask the clinical staff to review brushing techniques with you. When bleeding occurs while brushing, this is usually due to a plaque build up or improper brushing techniques. It is essential to continue brushing in a gentle circular motion along the gum line. Although we check your brushing at each appointment, it is still necessary to continue your regular 6-month check up with your family dentist.

*If there is anything you are not sure of, do not hesitate to call our office. If you will give us your continuous co-operation during the months ahead, when the time comes to remove your braces, we will have a result of which we will all be proud.*

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Elastic Instructions

Today is the beginning of an important new phase in your orthodontic treatment. Elastics (small rubber bands) will be needed and they will help reposition your teeth and jaws if worn as directed!

HERE’S WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO…

  1. Wear the elastics all the time - night and day - unless we tell you otherwise.
  2. Carry some elastics with you at all times. If one breaks in your mouth, replace it right away.
  3. You may remove them when you eat. Brush your teeth carefully after every meal and put elastics on immediately. REMEMBER... Change them at least once a day.
  4. If you run out of elastics, call us and tell us what size you need. We’ll get a new supply to you.

The elastics may make your teeth tender for the first 2 or 3 days; but, if you continue to wear them, they will become comfortable in a short time.

A FINAL WORD OF IMPORTANCE…..

Teeth have never failed to move when elastics are worn consistently as directed.

BUT… when they are worn one day and left off the next, your treatment slows and may even stop. Why? Because the teeth “jiggle” back and forth and actually sets up a resistance that prevents movement. Your cooperation is important. If you wear elastics as recommended, you’ll be surprised at how quickly your treatment will progress, and possibly your overall time in braces may be less then expected.

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Foods

Now that you have started your orthodontic treatment, please avoid the following foods:

HARD FOODS may do damage by bending wires or breaking off the brackets.

STICKY FOODS damage appliances by bending wires or loosening appliances.

FOODS HIGH IN SUGAR CONTENT should be avoided whenever possible. If you do eat sweets, brush your teeth immediately.

DON’T EAT (not even if you’re careful)

  • Popcorn
  • Nuts
  • Pretzels
  • Ice cubes
  • Chewy candy bars
  • Peanut brittle
  • Doritos
  • Corn chips
  • Ringolos
  • Hard or sticky candies
  • Gum
  • Jujubes
  • Caramels
  • Skittles
  • Licorice
  • Gushers
  • Gummy bears
  • Fruit by the foot
  • Wine gums
  • Fruitella

MAYBE (if you cut into small pieces or wedges)

  • Apples
  • Raw broccoli or cauliflower
  • Carrots
  • Pizza crust
  • Crusty bread
  • Bagels
  • Pitted fruit
  • Ribs and Chicken-cut the meat off the bone

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Headgear

This appliance is used in cases where the upper teeth or jaw are too far forward. The headgear slows the upper jaw in its forward growth and allows the lower jaw to catch up.

Now your part...

  1. Wear the headgear a minimum of 14 hours per day.
  2. Some temporary discomfort is normal during the first 2-3 nights. It may be necessary to gradually increase wear during the first week until you reach 12-14 hours. At first, molar teeth may become tender and even feel a little loose.
  3. Once you start headgear treatment, you must keep it up continuously. Wear the headgear every evening and all night. The more you wear it, the faster you will be done.

If you wear your headgear as instructed, you will be surprised at how quickly your treatment progresses...

*Please remember to bring your headgear with you to each appointment so that your orthodontist may make any necessary adjustments.*

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Removable Appliance Instructions

Your new appliance is a removable plastic and wire plate which has been carefully designed to move your teeth into better positions. It is important that it be worn according to the following instructions:

  1. Wear the retainer all the time other then at meals and when brushing your teeth, swimming, or when playing contact sports.
  2. The plastic taste to the appliance will disappear soon, and in two or three days your speech will be completely normal with the appliance in place.
  3. Your new retainer may make your teeth sore for a day or two. After an adjustment you may experience soreness. If you have a sore spot after 3-4 days, call the office so that an adjustment can be made.
  4. Clean retainer by brushing with toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner or mouthwash, if you wish. If you are wearing a lower fixed retainer, be careful to brush the wire and the inside of the lower teeth.
  5. Always bring your retainer to each appointment.
  6. Avoid flipping the retainer with your tongue. This can cause damage to your teeth, as well as weaken, bend or break the wires.
  7. Never wrap retainer in a paper napkin or tissue and leave it on the table. Someone may throw it away. Don’t put it in your pocket when playing or you may break it or lose it.
  8. If your retainer is not in your mouth it should be in your case. If not in your case, then in your mouth.
  9. If you have a dog or cat, keep it away from them. It smells like a bone to dogs, and they’ll love to chew it.
  10. There will be a minimum charge of $175.00 for a replacement appliance if lost, broken or does not fit due to inconsistent wear.

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Repairs

If anything ever feels wrong or you are ever in any discomfort, please, call our office immediately and we will schedule an appointment to first aid the problem.

However, in the meantime until you can be seen try the following:

  • Tenderness or difficulty chewing-soft diet, analgesics such as Tylenol or Advil (not A.S.A.)
  • Wire poking-place wax on it or try to bend wire with the back of a spoon.
  • Ulcerations on cheeks or lips-wax
  • Bracket off/loose-place wax over bracket or wire, if in discomfort and call our office for an appointment to have bracket re-bonded. Do not wait until your next scheduled appointment.

REMEMBER...the more breakages and wires broken the longer your treatment. So please treat your braces with TLC.

WAX:

Wax may be necessary if anything is sharp or if you have any sore spots in your mouth that the brackets are irritating. Place a small band of wax over the brackets or sharp area that is bothering you. Remove the wax to eat or brush and replace with a new piece afterwards if needed.

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Retainer Instructions

Your retainer is a removable appliance carefully designed to maintain your teeth in their correct position. It is important to wear it according to the following instructions:

  1. Wear the retainer all the time other than at meals and when brushing your teeth, swimming, or when playing contact sports.
  2. The plastic taste to the appliance will disappear soon, and in two or three days your speech will be completely normal.
  3. Your new retainer may make your teeth sore for a day or two. After an adjustment you may experience soreness. If you have a sore spot after 3-4 days, call the office so that it can be fixed.
  4. Clean your retainer by brushing with toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture/retainer cleaner or mouthwash, if you wish. If you are wearing a fixed retainer, be extra careful to brush the wire and the inside of the teeth.
  5. Always bring your retainer to each appointment.
  6. Avoid flipping the retainer with your tongue. This can cause damage to your teeth, as well as weaken, bend or break the wires.
  7. Never wrap your retainer in a paper napkin or tissue, or leave it on the table, where it will be thrown away. Don't put it in your pocket or you may break or lose it. If your retainer is not in your mouth it should be in your case. If it is not in your case, then it is in your mouth!
  8. If you have a dog or cat, keep it away from them. It smells like a bone to dogs, and they'll love to chew it up.
  9. There will be a minimum charge of $100-$175 for a replacement retainer if lost, broken or does not fit due to inconsistent wear.

*We will let you know when you can reduce retainer wear to part time. You must wear your retainers as long as you would like to keep your teeth straight.*

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Separators/Spacers

The purpose of the separators is to make the space required for the placement of the orthodontic bands. This usually requires about one week.

You can expect some soreness during this time, and mild pain medication such as Tylenol or Advil may be helpful. Rinsing with warm salt water may also reduce tenderness. It will be necessary to brush thoroughly around the separators as they collect food. Do not floss in the areas where the spacers are located. You may continue to follow your regular diet during this time. Please avoid chewing on gum and any sticky foods while your spacers are in.

The separators will loosen as the teeth begin to move. The spacers may even come out over time if they have had enough time to do their job and the spaces have opened.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call our office.

Looking forward to seeing you at your next appointment.

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