Patient Resources

For teens, we focus on straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment if necessary. We focus on using appliances that provide a comfortable yet effective experience and fit into the teen’s lifestyle. For adults and teens, we offer aesthetic treatment options for straightening teeth such as Invisalign clear aligners, champagne-colored braces, and ceramic braces.These are popular amongst teens and adults alike.

According to American Association of Orthodontists, today one in three orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. Orthodontic treatment in adult patients is on the rise. More and more adult patients are pursuing orthodontic treatment because they want to feel better and more confident about their smile and they understand the importance of their dental health. The underlying physiological process of moving teeth is the same for youngsters and adults. It is important to note that healthy teeth can be moved effectively at any age. However, there are key differences between children and adults:

• Younger patients are still undergoing growth and development. In adults, the jawbones are set and the growth is complete. Thus, orthognathic jaw surgery in conjunction with orthodontic treatment may be a consideration for some adults since growth and development of the jaws can no longer be guided or modified.
• Adults are more likely than children to develop gum disease and are at higher risk for developing dental recession, gingivitis and periodontitis.
• Adult patients are more likely to have wear of their permanent teeth and missing teeth are also more common in older patients. Frequently, a multidisciplinary treatment plan with your general dentist may be indicated.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment – At any Age

• A beautiful smile with straight, properly aligned teeth builds confidence and boosts self esteem
• Straight teeth are easier to floss and brush thoroughly, and thus less prone to gum disease and tooth decay
• A functional bite minimizes abnormal wear of tooth enamel and enables you to chew food more comfortably

Foods to Avoid When Wearing Braces:

• Popcorn
• Nuts
• Hard taco shells
• Sticky and hard candy
• Gum
• Ice
• Corn chips
• Pretzels
• Hard cookies or crackers
• Toasted bagels
• Carrots or apples (unless cut into thin slices)
• Sticky or hard chocolate
• Corn on the cob

Also, for the health of your teeth, please try to limit the consumption of sweets (candy, cakes, cookies and ice cream) and acidic drinks (soda, soft drinks). Make sure that you brush after eating a sweet treat or drinking soda with a fluoridated toothpaste when possible.

Additionally, finger-nail biting and chewing on pens, pencils can damage or break your orthodontic appliances. It is important to discontinue these habits prior to the onset of your orthodontic treatment.

Loose Band or Bracket
If the bracket or band is still connected to the wire, leave it alone. If the band or bracket is causing you any discomfort, apply some orthodontic wax on it to provide you with relief. You can also try to remove the elastic holding a broken bracket using sterile tweezers to detach the loose brace from the archwire. If any part of your appliance is detached or broken please bring it into your next orthodontic appointment with you. Make sure that you disinfect any equipment you use using rubbing alcohol.

Loose or Poking Archwire
In the event of a loose wire, first, try to push it back into position using sterile tweezers. If this does not work, cut the archwire with sterile fingernail clippers or cuticle clippers behind the last brace that is secure and still attached to your teeth. If the loose wire is irritating the inside of your mouth, you can also apply orthodontic wax to the offending part. Make sure that you disinfect any equipment you use using rubbing alcohol.

Poking Wire Ligature or Wire Hook
Sometimes wire hooks are placed over braces for the purpose of wearing rubber bands. Wire ligatures can be placed over specific braces to hold the wire in place of the brace. If the small wire extension begins to poke or bother you, it may help applying orthodontic wax on the archwire at the point where it is poking you. Frequently, adding a small ball of wax to the portion of the appliance causing the irritation will offer relief. You can also use a pencil eraser or a Q-tip to gently push the ligature hook or end of the wire closer to the tooth if it is bent out for comfort. If the wire hook or wire ligature is loose and moving around the brace, try to remove it with sterile tweezers. Make sure that you disinfect any equipment you use using rubbing alcohol.

Soreness
During the days immediately following an adjustment or placement of an appliance, you may experience a certain level of discomfort or soreness. You can decrease the level of discomfort by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water or taking an over the counter pain reliever such as Tylenol.

Loose or Broken Ligature
Tiny colored rubber bands known as elastomeric ligatures hold the archwire in place of the bracket. If elastomeric ligature comes off, you may be able to put it back over the brace with sterile tweezers. An elastic rubber tie that is partially on or off altogether should not lead to discomfort. Make sure that you disinfect any equipment you use using rubbing alcohol.

Mouth Sores
Some individuals are susceptible to mouth sores known as canker sores. While orthodontic appliances or braces do not cause canker sores, the irritation from braces may exacerbate them. This may be quite uncomfortable for the patient. Orthodontic wax may help cushion any metal areas that are leading to discomfort or irritation. Also, you can apply a small amount of over the counter topical anesthetic such as Orabase or Orajel to the canker sore or ulcerated area with a Q-tip for relief. If you have any questions or concerns about your appliances as you adjust, or at any subsequent time, please call our office so that we can advise you accordingly and schedule an appointment to be evaluated as needed.