At Wildflower Orthodontics, there’s no such thing as a silly question. So, if we didn’t answer a question you have below, call us or email us. We’d love to help in any way we can.
An orthodontist is a specialist within the field of dentistry. They attend 2 to 3 years of advanced training after dental school, focusing on tooth movement and facial development.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age 7. Many orthodontic problems can be solved more easily at a younger age, before jaw growth slows, to avoid the need for more complicated procedures. That being said, treatment can be sought out at any age, and there are many attractive treatment options available to adults today that ensure an efficient, aesthetic, and comfortable orthodontic experience.
It may take a little getting used to, but you can definitely play sports or an instrument while wearing braces. We highly recommend a mouthguard to protect your teeth and appliance while participating in activities.
Sore teeth during orthodontic treatment are normal and result from the forces placed on the teeth to move them. There may be some discomfort and soreness for a few weeks after getting your braces on and for several days after an adjustment. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be taken to help reduce the soreness. Areas of your mouth like your lips, cheeks, and tongue may become irritated as they adjust to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this discomfort.
If a bonded appliance (i.e. Herbst, Carriere, etc.) comes loose, it can cause irritation and soreness. A loose orthodontic appliance will not move teeth to their proper positions. This can result in a delay in treatment progress. It is important to call us to inquire about scheduling an appointment to repair the loose appliance.
In most cases, a loose bracket will remain attached to the wire and is not cause for an emergency visit. Sometimes the brace may move or slide back and forth on the wire. Tweezers can be used to reposition the brace if it flips around the wire. If tissue irritation occurs, cover the loose brace with orthodontic wax to help the sore area heal.
If a wire causes irritation, push the wire away from the area using the eraser end of a pencil or a cotton swab. If the wire cannot be tucked away, cover the end of the wire with a small piece of wax, a cotton ball, or a piece of sugarless gum, until you can see us for an adjustment.
If a wire is poking you, place a piece of wax over the area and call our office to schedule an adjustment appointment. If the wire is poking you and wax does not help, the wire can be cut with a small wire cutter or nail clipper close to the back of the last brace. This is a last resort until you can see us for an adjustment.
