Q:
What do I do if there is something irritating my cheeks or gums?
A:
Place some wax (as provided) over the braces that are irritating. Use warm salt water mouth rinses four times daily to encourage the irritated tissue to heal. Let us know at your next visit so that we can see if there are any adjustments we can make to help. If you need to be seen sooner, please call us for an appointment.
Q:
What do I do if a band or bracket comes loose?
A:
Call us for an appointment as soon as possible. If you are away from the area, have an orthodontist or dentist remove the band or bracket and bring it with you to your next appointment. Advise us so that we can schedule adequate time for you for the reattachment of the band or bracket. Stop wearing any rubber bands (and your headgear, if the loose band or bracket is on the top teeth) until your next appointment.
Q:
What do I do if an archwire breaks?
A:
Call us immediately for a repair appointment. Stop wearing any rubber bands (and your headgear, if the broken wire is on the top teeth) until that appointment.
Q:
What do I do if I need to be seen immediately?
A:
Call our office first. If the orthodontist is in the office, we will see you. If the orthodontist is not in, the receptionist will be able to direct you where you can obtain help. After hours, please leave a message so the receptionist will be able to call you back after she has checked the messages. If necessary, call Dr. Maplethorp at home or the emergency department at the hospital (where there is a dentist on call 24 hours a day.)
Q:
What type of tooth brush should I use?
A:
One with soft, round ended polished nylon bristles cleans effectively and also protects the gums. There should be two or three rows of bristles. Some recommended makes are: Oral B, Butler Gum, Reach or Colgate. Electric tooth brushes are helpful in some areas but they often do not get into the area behind the arch wire, so check with our office regarding the type you have. We will also provide a small tuft brush to get into small areas.
Q:
Should I use dental floss?
A:
Definitely. Use either a floss threader or Superfloss to help with flossing. Flossing thoroughly every night is ideal, but any time of day is good. The teflon type ‘glide’ dental floss which frays less on the edges of the bands is preferable.
Q:
What toothpaste should I use?
A:
One approved by The Canadian Dental Association, such as Crest, and Colgate. These contain fluoride.
Q:
What about using a Water Pik? (Oral irrigating device)
A:
These are not a substitute for brushing or flossing since they DO NOT remove dental plaque. They are useful for removing food bits, but could be harmful to the gum tissue if used under high pressure.
Q:
How often should I buy a new tooth brush?
A:
When the bristles curl or bend over at the ends the brush becomes less effective and potentially harmful to the gum tissues. You will find that your tooth brush will need to be replaced more frequently when the braces are placed.
Q:
Should I use a fluoride rinse?
A:
Absolutely. These have been shown to reduce decay when used as directed. We recommend rinsing twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Remember that the rinse should be done after brushing and is not to be swallowed. Some recommended brands are: Fluorinse (Oral B daily rinse in the ice-mint flavour), Oronaf, Fluoriguard and now you can buy some mouthwashes (Listerine or Scope) that has added fluoride.
Q:
Are there any foods that MUST be avoided?
A:
Yes, there are four kinds:
- VERY HARD FOODS - can do damage by distorting the wires, shearing off the brackets or loosening or breaking the tubes or attachments on the bands. Chewing ice cubes and bones such as spare ribs is not allowed. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be eaten if cut into wedges, thin strips or curls.
- STICKY FOODS - such as chewing gum, bubble gum, toffee and liquorice wrap around the braces and tend to pull them loose and are hard to clean up. Also constant chewing forces may interfere with the action of certain headgears, appliances and elastics.
- SUGARY FOODS AND DRINKS - should be avoided where possible since they contribute to tooth decay. Clean your teeth immediately after sugary foods and rinse your teeth with water after sugary drinks.
- POP, JUICES & SPORTS DRINKS - carbonated beverages, slurpees, sports drinks (even diet drinks) should be consumed in limited amounts as the high acid levels in these drinks will cause erosion of the enamel of the teeth. This can occur in a very short period of time and can quickly lead to a significant cosmetic problem and can contribute to rapid decay. It is better to drink these with a straw, avoid swishing them around your mouth and then rinse with water after.
Q:
What will it be like when the braces are first placed?
A:
The braces will feel rough to the inside of your cheeks and lips for the first couple of weeks. After the initial adjustment you won't notice the braces as much. You may notice more saliva in your mouth for the first few days while you get used to the braces.
May I play sports while wearing braces?
Yes. But wear a protective mouth guard.
Q:
Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
A:
With practice and a period of adjustment, braces typically do not interfere with the playing of wind or brass instruments. We have some aids that can help protect your lips especially if you are in a marching band. Ask us.
Q:
My teeth have been crooked for many years - why should I have orthodontic treatment now?
A:
It’s never too late! Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Orthodontic treatment can restore good function. And teeth that work better usually look better, too. A healthy, beautiful smile can improve self-esteem, no matter the age.
Q:
Can I afford orthodontic treatment?
A:
We provide a convenient payment plan. Many dental insurance plans now include orthodontic benefits.
Q:
I am pregnant and want to begin orthodontic treatment. Is this OK?
A:
Pregnancy brings on bodily changes that may affect the mouth. Soft tissues such as gums become much more susceptible to infection. Discuss this question with your medical practitioner/physician and dentist before you consider orthodontic treatment.
Q:
Do teeth with braces need special care?
A:
Yes. Patients with braces must be careful to avoid hard, sticky, chewy and crunchy foods, or hard objects, such as pens, pencils or fingernails. Keeping the teeth and braces clean requires more precision and time, and must be done every day if the teeth and gums are to be healthy during and after orthodontic treatment. Clean, healthy teeth move more quickly
Q:
I see ads for perfect teeth in only one or two visits to the dentist. Will that give me straight teeth?
A:
Quick-fix veneers temporarily cover crooked teeth and often have to be replaced or repaired at regular intervals. Teeth straightened by an orthodontist lok more natural are good for life.
Q:
I don’t want braces that show. What are my options?
A:
Clear braces are less visible. Some of today’s wires are made of "space age" materials that exert a steady, gentle pressure on the teeth, so that the tooth-moving process may be faster and more comfortable for patients. A type of clear orthodontic wire is currently in an experimental stage. Another option may be the use of a series of plastic tray aligners instead of traditional braces to correct some problems. In some cases, brackets may be bonded behind the teeth (lingual braces).
Q:
I have a stud in my tongue. Will this interfere with orthodontic treatment?
A:
Exercise caution. Tongue-piercing jewelry may contribute to breakage of appliances and to tooth and gum damage from contact with the stud.
Q:
How may I distinguish an orthodontist from a dentist?
A:
Visit Find An Orthodontist
https://cao-aco.org/ . Orthodontists included in this search are members of the Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO) . CAO membership is the best way to confirm a doctor's status as an orthodontist because the CAO only accepts orthodontists for membership.