Frequently Asked Questions

It is normal to have discomfort for three to five days after braces or retainers are adjusted. Although temporary, it can make eating uncomfortable. Encourage soft foods and have the patient rinse the mouth with warm salt water. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may be effective.

Extra time is needed with toothbrushing to make sure all areas around the braces are cleaned properly. Specialized brush tips help get in between brackets and under wires. Floss-threaders are helpful for passing floss beneath archwires. The goal is to remove plaque from around teeth and gums. Brush at least twice daily until spotlessly clean to prevent inflamed gum tissue, decalcification, bad breath, and tooth decay.

Avoid hard or sticky items such as ice, nuts, popcorn kernels, hard candy, caramel, jerky, whole apples and carrots (cut them into bite-size pieces instead), and chewing on pens, pencils, or fingernails. Regular gum should be avoided; sugarless gum is acceptable in moderation. Minimize sugary drinks and snacks.

If any portion of the appliance breaks, contact the office so we can schedule a repair. Save any broken pieces and bring them to your appointment. For urgent problems, like an archwire poking, refer to the Emergencies page for simple at-home measures and when to call the office.

Yes. Wearing a protective mouth guard is advised for biking, skating, or any contact sports. Avoid mouth guards that require boiling. The office can supply a comfortable mouth guard.

Wind or brass instruments may require some adaptation, but with practice braces typically do not interfere with playing. Your teacher or our staff can offer tips to make the transition easier.

Patient cooperation means following instructions such as wearing elastics as prescribed, keeping appointments, maintaining good oral hygiene, and wearing retainers. Cooperation is critical to efficient, successful treatment and to finishing in the estimated time.

Treatment length varies by case complexity, how well appliances and instructions are followed, biological response, and growth factors. Occasional delays happen for missed appointments, breakages, or poor cooperation. We provide personalized timelines and explain scheduling expectations at your first visit.

Retainers keep teeth in their new positions after braces. Wearing retainers as instructed is key to maintaining treatment results and avoiding relapse.

Early consultation is often recommended when issues are suspected because growth can be used to advantage in some cases. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation around age seven. Timing for treatment depends on individual growth and the type of problem being addressed.

For emergencies and immediate troubleshooting, such as an archwire poking or a loose bracket, refer to the Emergencies page for at-home steps and guidance on when to call us. For scheduling and cancellations, note that patients are seen by appointment only; please notify us 24 hours in advance when possible. Certain procedures are scheduled at specific times and our appointments page explains policies in detail.