When are my braces coming off?
Answer: Most full treatment cases take two years to complete. However, with optimal patient cooperation and careful maintenance of your braces, you may be able to shorten your treatment by a couple of months.
Why do I have to wear elastics?
Answer: Wearing elastics improves your bite. Not only are you here for a beautiful smile, you are also here for a functional bite that will last a lifetime. It is essential to wear your elastics as much as we tell you to in order to get your braces off on time.
Why do I have to wear my retainer? And for how long?
Answer: You have to wear your retainer in order to keep your new smile. Teeth have memory and may want to move back towards their original positions. By wearing your retainer, your teeth will stay in their new positions. When you first get your braces off, your teeth are still mobile. It is very important to wear your retainer 14 hours as they stabilize.
How about the lower fixed retainer?
Answer: The lower fixed retainer stays in your mouth as we continue to monitor your wisdom teeth. We like to keep them in until the wisdom teeth come into your mouth or need to be removed. It does not affect your speech, and you will not even realize it is there. It is important to make sure that this area stays clean and flossed.
Why is it important to keep my teeth clean?
Answer: It is very important to keep your teeth and gums clean throughout treatment. We want you to have healthy teeth along with your beautiful smile. We will rate your hygiene at your visits, and we will discuss techniques to help you improve if needed. Poor hygiene may result in cavities, gingivitis or white spots on your teeth when your braces come off.
Why can’t I chew gum during orthodontic treatment?
Answer: Gum has a tendency to be sticky, getting between the braces and wires. This could break a wire or pull out a wire.
Now, here are a few additional questions that we don’t necessarily hear a lot but are very important to ask:
What can I do to facilitate treatment?
• Maintain a healthy brushing routine.
• Cooperate with elastic wear and other appliances.
• Be careful with the foods you eat in order to minimize breakages.
• If breakages occur, schedule an appointment as soon as possible to rebond the bracket so we can remain on course with your treatment.
• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and dental check-ups.
• Try to keep all your appointments.
Do my parents need to come with me into the treatment area?
If you are here for a regular adjustment and you feel comfortable, we certainly invite you to come in by yourself! Our friendly staff would love to establish a patient relationship bond with you. However, if you are not comfortable coming back to the treatment chair alone, your parents are more than welcome to join.
Why should I take the plunge into orthodontic treatment?
There are many benefits to receiving orthodontic treatment. Whether orthodontic treatment is sought for teeth and bite alignment or for cosmetic reasons, it is never too late to visit us. Treatment boosts self-confidence, and it is a gift that lasts a lifetime.
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