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braces!
omg i just got braces like this morning and they are kind of sore..will anyone give me some advice on what to do and how to floss and all that stuff?? thanksss
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Gah I'm sorry. Braces SUCK! But you'll get used to them after time.
If your mouth is sore, take advil or tylenol or whatever, but don't try to baby your mouth by not eating solids. If you eat solid-ish stuff like bread at first, and then just normal food, your mouth will feel better much quicker.
As for flossing, you have to put the floss behind the section of wire, and then floss between the two teeth. you have to do this with every wire, and it's very annoying and time-consuming, but you only have to do it once a day, thank goodness. Try to brush three times a day, however. Brush at an angle so the bristles get behing the wires, too.
And just for future reference, chewy or sticky food isn't that bad for braces as long as you brush and floss soon after eating it so it doesn't get stuck. Hard food is more dangerous. I'm actually chewing gum as I type. :-)
I've never broken a bracket, and my friends who have have only done so on hard food that gets stuck over it, and then they bite down. So be careful with that.
Good luck with braces, and congrats in advance for your soon-to-be straight teeth!
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What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry that is devoted to bringing the teeth, jawbones, and facial profile into proper alignment. An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed an additional two to three years of graduate education in an ADA approved, university affiliated orthodontic specialty program. They are truly specialists in dentistry.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
What can one expect from orthodontic care?
An attractive smile!!
Teeth that fit together properly which will provide for improved function and long-term health of the teeth and gums.
More efficient chewing which will allow for improved digestion and over-all health
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
Do I need braces?
If you have crooked, irregular or protruding teeth or an incorrect relation between the top and bottom teeth and jaws, you should visit our office for a free consultation. Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner will do a thorough evaluation and determine whether you would benefit from orthodontic treatment.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
Your first few days
There might be some general soreness of the teeth and mouth. Usually this is not enough to interfere with your daily routine, but if tenderness is severe, Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen, is the safest form of pain reliever for children (but please consult Dr. Alizadeh, Dr. Schreiner or your dentist first). Try to avoid harder foods that require chewing while the teeth are tender. Stick to soft, nutritious foods such as pastas, soups, etc. Discomfort is usually worse on the first few days after braces are first placed and then gradually resolves. The teeth may even appear loose which is a normal reaction so "Don't Panic". Teeth must loosen first so they can move but they will firm up again.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
When is the best time to begin treatment?
Dr. Alizadeh and Dr. Schreiner like to see patients at a young age. Between the ages of 5 and 7, the front permanent teeth begin to come in. At this time, potential bite and crowding problems become noticeable to the orthodontist.
This is also an ideal time, when indicated, to begin early treatment to take advantage of the child's growing facial bones to achieve the best treatment results. Because 75% of a child's growth occurs before the age of 10, early treatment expands and directs moldable, growing bones to produce a greatly improved profile and a healthy, properly functioning mouth. However, it is never too late to receive orthodontic treatment. Even adults can benefit from treatment.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint/Muscle Dysfunction)
Many patients experience pain or limitation of movement in their jaw joint (TMJ) at different times of their lives. Clicking or "popping" of the joint, along with pain, when opening or chewing is another common problem. Sometimes pain of the TMJ will mimic ear pain. Headaches can also result from the jaw joint not functioning properly. If you suspect a TMJ problem, you should consult your dentist, Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner immediately.
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
What can Orthodontics do for me?
See images: do4u.gif do4u2.gif
Increase self-esteem by improving appearance
Decrease the likelihood of gum disease and premature loss of teeth by relieving stress on gums and bones which results when teeth do not meet properly
Eliminate speech problems caused by protruding or misaligned teeth
Possibly help reduce and help treat jaw joint difficulties, (see TMJ)
Lower the incidence of decay in crowded, overlapping teeth which can become food trap areas
Make the jawbone develop so there is less need to remove adult teeth
· posted · Friday, April 05, 2002
Adult Orthodontics
Many people think that orthodontics can only be done on children and teenagers. Not true! Orthodontics can be effective at almost any age. Treatment protocols may be somewhat different between adults and children, but many adults are now undergoing orthodontic treatment to improve their health and appearance.
Recent advances in materials and techniques have combined to make it possible to provide treatment that is shorter in duration. Treatment can also be completed with fewer appointments, leaving you more time to do all of the other things in your busy schedule.
Modern braces are far more cosmetically pleasing than they were just a few years ago. Advanced composites make it possible to have clear or neutral colored brackets. Brackets are normally the most visible part of braces, yet they become virtually invisible when these materials are used. Alternative finishes are available on some braces, including gold braces.
Other options are available for adults who desire a more cosmetic appearance during treatment. Lingual braces attach to the inside of the teeth and are not visible at all.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Oral Hygiene
Now that you have your orthodontic appliances or braces in place, keeping your teeth, gums and appliances clean is most important.
Braces, wires, bands and retainers all can trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or floss away plaque. Plaque is a sticky layer of harmful bacteria, food, saliva and debris which, if allowed to build up, can attack your teeth and gums, causing cavities and gum disease.
Brushing and flossing after every meal and snack is the only way to prevent plaque build up, tooth decay, and gum disease.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR EXCELLENT ORAL HYGIENE
1. Use a fluoride containing toothpaste when you brush.
2. A soft bristled brush is also recommended----change every six months.
3. Continue to use all hygiene aids (such as waterpics, electric toothbrushes, perioaids, proxybrushes, fluoride mouth rinses, etc.) that have been part of your regular routine. Remember, however, these cannot substitute for good brushing and flossing!
4. A fluoride gel may be prescribed if needed to help prevent cavities.
5. Use an egg timer or watch to measure your brushing time. A minimum of two minutes is needed to brush correctly.
6. Use waxed floss to help prevent fraying. A floss threader or Super floss (threader attached) is helpful in flossing under orthodontic wires.
7 Floss, brushes, Super floss, mouth rinses, auxiliary aids, etc. are all available at the local drug store or super market. Keep a supply on hand at home, work, school or when you travel so you may clean your teeth after every meal.
8. Maintain regular three to six month regular checkups with your family dentist throughout your orthodontic treatment.
9. Avoid eating hard foods such as ice, popcorn, nuts, spare ribs or corn chips. If you eat hard fruit, vegetables or french bread, it's a good idea to cut them into bite size pieces first.
10. Avoid sticky foods and foods high in added sugar such as caramel, bubble gum, taffy, gummy bears, now and laters, etc.
11. When ever you have something sweet, brush your teeth and braces immediately afterward. Don't wait!
TIPS FOR BRUSHING WITH BRACES
1. Brush the braces and teeth first. Start brushing the outside surfaces of the teeth with braces in a back and forth motion, try to brush each tooth 10 times. Continue around the outside, then the inside and finally the tops of the teeth.
2. Repeat this sequence, this time concentrating your brushing along the gum line (where the tooth and gum meet.) Brush in a small gentle circular motion, about ten times per tooth. Avoid hard scrubbing which can cause the gums to recede.
3. Don't forget to brush your tongue.
4. Rinse your mouth thoroughly.
TIPS FOR FLOSSING WITH BRACES
1. Use the floss threader, as a needle and thread, and lace the floss under the wire between the teeth. Remove the floss threader, and holding the floss with the fingers of both hands, gently wipe up and down the surface of each tooth a minimum of five times. The tooth will feel "squeaky" when clean. Without removing the floss from between the teeth, move the floss to a clean section and repeat for the other surface of the adjacent tooth. Remove the floss, re-thread, and repeat for each tooth. After practice, you may be able to thread the floss without the help of the floss threader.
2. Floss all teeth at least once a day. Remember, flossing is the best way to prevent plaque build-up between the teeth and gums. Without daily plaque removal from between your teeth, your gums will bleed, a first sign of gum infection, gingivitis or periodontal (gum) disease.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Home Care for Temporomandibular Joint/Muscle Dysfunction (TMJ)
The following instructions will aid in the healing of a sore jaw joint.
1) Do NOT chew gum.
2) During the initial phase of treatment, particularly if symptoms are acute, stay on a definite soft diet (baby food, soups, milkshakes, eggs, hamburger, etc.)
3) For the next few months, be sure to cut all foods into small, bite sized pieces and try to avoid opening your mouth any wider than the thickness of your thumb. (1-2 inch).
4) Do not eat hard crusts of bread, rough meat, raw vegetables, or any other food that will require prolonged chewing.
5) Do not chew peanuts, ice cubes, or any other substance that is repeatedly milled between your back teeth.
6) Do not chew gum, bite your lips, clench your teeth or habitually chew the insides of your cheeks.
7) Do not thrust your lower jaw forward, as when biting off a piece of thread, applying lipstick, smoking, or through force of habit.
8) Do not bite any food with your front teeth.
9) If you must yawn, limit the distance your mouth opens by pulling your lower lip up over the edges of your lower teeth.
10) Make every effort not to strain your jaw joints unnecessarily by such activities as talking excessively, deliberately popping your jaw joint as one would pop the knuckles of his hand, leaning on the palm of your hand while reading or watching TV, etc.
11) Try to sleep on your back. Avoid sleeping on the side of your face or on your fist.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Eating and Braces
Protect your braces by avoiding the foods mentioned below. Loose braces or bands are not only uncomfortable but also delay treatment. Examples of Things You Cannot Eat or Chew...
Ice. . . A thousand times NO! It will totally destroy your braces.
Pizza Crust . . .The hard crust bends wires.
Hard Pretzels . . . Bends wires, loosens bands, knocks off brackets.
Doritos, Tacos, Tostitos, Cheetos, Fritos and the like . . . Will form a hard ball and break your braces.
Caramel, Candy, Bubble Gum . . . Sticky goo which pulls off wires and feeds the bacteria in your mouth.
Hard Rolls, Bagels, Bones . . . Bends the wire and knocks off brackets.
Beef Jerky . . . Tough as nails.
Suckers . . . You might weaken and bite.
Nuts . . . No nuts of any kind.
Ribs . . . Knocks off brackets.
Pens and Pencils . . . Favorite exam time food, breaks everything.
Popcorn . . . The little shells get between the gum and band - hurts like crazy.
Raw Carrots . . . Hard as rocks.
Eating these foods will loosen the braces, but you may not discover the problem until hours or days later...Surprise! loose bands, broken wires, and detached brackets cause a longer treatment time.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Surgical Orthodontics
Jaw growth is a slow and gradual process. Sometimes abnormal growth may occur, causing one or both jaws to grow too much or too little. The resulting abnormal jaw relationship may cause an improper bite and possible speaking and chewing problems. An improper bite can also cause long term health problems for the gums, teeth and possibly the jaw joint (TMJ). Appearance can also be affected, with one jaw sticking too far out or back or even too much gums showing when smiling.
When the jaw relationships are so severely malposed that tooth movement alone cannot accomplish the desired changes, surgical intervention (called orthognathic surgery), may be necessary. Braces are placed first to align the teeth within the bone. An oral surgeon then does corrective jaw surgery. The surgery involves moving all or part of the upper and/or lower jaw into a more favorable position. The goal of surgical treatment is to restore proper function and facial balance. With recent advances in surgery the jaws rarely have to be wired shut after surgery, allowing the patient to open and close their jaws sooner. After surgery the orthodontic treatment is completed, usually in 6 to 9 months, to establish a proper bite.
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
Emergencies
Before calling your orthodontist with a problem, ask yourself: Is this an emergency? True emergencies are rare. Spend a few moments learning more about your appliance and how to solve small problems. This will help you handle minor concerns on your own without first calling Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner.
What You Can Do:
Keep orthodontic wax and pencil eraser handy. Here are some tips for handling minor problems:
Poking wire or bracket: Roll a piece of wax into a ball and press it onto the part that's poking you. Try to keep the wax dry prior to placing it. The wax will come off frequently, so keep a supply with you.
Broken Wire: Press the wire toward your teeth with a pencil eraser. If you are unable to push the wire out of the way, try cutting the part that is sticking out with wire cutters or a large finger nail clipper.
Small cut: To help the cut heal, rinse your mouth with a mixture of 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 cup of warm water. Peroxyl, which you can buy over the counter, is also an excellent rinse to clean the cut and promote healing.
Call your orthodontist's office during regular business hours if:
An appliance breaks
A piece of the appliance is lose
An appliance gets lost
An appliance does not fit properly
Call Your Orthodontist Right Away If:
A broken appliance prevents the mouth from opening or closing.
Pain from an appliance is still felt even after taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
Call 911 or your emergency number first, then call your orthodontist, if:
A serious face or mouth injury occurs.
A piece of the appliance is inhaled or gets in the way of breathing. This is extremely rare
Know Your Appliance
Try to learn as much about your orthodontic appliance as you can. This will help you talk to us about any problems you might have. The more accurately you describe any problem, the better we are able to help you solve it. See the above picture to help you become familiar with the different parts of your appliance.
Tips to Prevent Problems
Always follow your orthodontist's instructions about proper wear and care. But here are some general tips that will help prevent problems.
Don't play rough while wearing headgear or any other removable appliance.
If you wear braces, don't eat foods that are hard, sticky, crunchy, or chewy. Avoid candy, gum, nuts, and corn on the cob. Cut raw carrots or apples into small pieces.
Don't pick at or pull on braces even if it makes your teeth feel better.
Don't flick your retainer around with your tongue, it will break!
Remove headgear and wear an orthodontic mouthguard when playing sports.
REMEMBER--Broken appliances will slow down your treatment!
· posted · Thursday, April 14, 2005
What can I expect from my first visit?
We usually allow 60 minutes for the first visit. During this appointment a thorough medical and dental history will be taken and a comprehensive examination of the teeth, jaws and muscles of the face will be done. If indicated, computer generated video images of the face and teeth will also be taken. During this examination either Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner will determine:
1) whether orthodontic treatment is necessary
2) if so, when is the best time to start
3) the estimated length and cost of treatment
There is no charge for this examination.
If Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner has determined that orthodontic treatment is necessary, impressions of the teeth and x-rays of the teeth, jaws and skull will be required to enable the Doctors to study the problems and determine the ideal treatment to correct them.
Financial arrangements will be made at this time. We will be happy to accept assignment of insurance benefits if so desired. If necessary, or if desired, at the next appointment, Dr. Alizadeh or Dr. Schreiner will present the planned treatment or any changes to the original treatment plan since the initial visit. Questions are encouraged at any time because it is important to understand why, what and when things occur.
i got this from some site, lol.
but it looks helpful!
thanks for letting me help you
if you have any specific questions ask, because i had braces!!
always there-
Kelsa:)
please leave feedback!!
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I've had braces for a year and its not all that bad. I can't really explain how to floss and all that stuff but you can ask your ortho and they would deffinately tell you. And if it hurts when you get them tightened then just take some tylenol or something right after. You'll get loose to things after a while, trust me!
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Well, take some motrin to dull the pain. Drink soup, eat yogurt, and stuff like that. To floss you have to buy those thread things. They are plastic and they look like an oversized needle. You thread the floss through it like a needle and then put the threader under your wire and take it from there. YOU can buy em at the super market. Even easier...ask your orthodontist for other ways.
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its pretty much the same process, just work from the rear of the tooth forward when flossing. brushing is the same, but don't try chewing gum for a few days. they'll stop being sore after a day or so
-hitler
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it will take your mouth a while to get used to the braces... but with the flossing all you need to do is the same thing but you need to put the floss between you braces to get to the teeth... its quite frustraiting if you ask me lol.
h.i.h.
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Ugh.. I had braces but they are off now. Anyway's they might be sore for a while and may be sore everytime you get the wires adjusted... If your in pain, I suggest taking medicine. Stay away from hard foods especially popcorn and gum. Sugarless gum is ok if you ask your orthodontist. Good luck!
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if you were given wax by your ortodontist then rub the wax on the braces so it doesn't hurt your cheek and it will come off when you eat so take it off when you are going to eat you could floss very gently not that hard.
i am getting braces soon 2.
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if you were given wax by your orthodontist, smush in onto the brackets for a few days or weeks, until your lips are used to the protrusion. you may get sores inside your mouth for a while, but after a while they should callous up and it won't happen anymore. i know when i first got my braces my mouth would bleed. flossing braces is hard, which is why i don't do it, but if you must, use the small blue tennis racket looking things that help you thread the floss through your braces. use floss that isn't fuzzy, otherwise it will snag on your braces and get stuck, leaving a bit of fuzz.
that's all i can think to tell you right now.
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I have braces and belive me they don't stop herting. Prey you don't get bands! They stink. Anyway it's really hard to tell anyone how to floss but what you do it get the little floss holder thing ( I forget what it is called) and slip the floss threw. Then take the floss thing and on the narrow end slip it threw the place imbatween the braket. pull it up and then floss just like you always do. Sorry if this is a little weird to understand. Ask your ortho to show you how to do it, It will make it a lot easier.
Daisyswim
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diesnt your dentist tell you all that bull shit
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advil, use the stuff the ppl give u to floss good luck
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ahh braces suck! i have them and your teeth will be sore for a couple weeks. what you do to floss your teeth is you put the floss in between the 2 brackets and move the floss in between your teeth. it`s the same as how you would usually floss without braces. you shouldn`t really eat any sticky food like gum, carmel, and peanut butter or popcorn because the kernels get stuck in between your teeth but it`s ok every once in a while ♥
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Oh, don't worry. It goes away in a few days. Just take tylenol, it helps temporarely. Well, it helps me anyway. And don't eat anything hard, like chips. It just makes it hurt more..
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Your teeth will be sore for the next few weeks, and it will be worse for the first few appointments because your wires will be tightened by your orthodontist, making your teeth sore and such. Flossing with having braces on is just like flossing normally but it will be harder to get the floss between each tooth. Just pull the floss back and forth until you get the floss to go in and that's pretty much it. As for the pain, take a pain reliever such as Alieve, Advil, or one of those over the counter medicines that you put on your teeth to soothe the soreness.
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When you floss you just simply get the floss and run it back and forth until it goes through the gap in your teeth and pull it back out. Very simple :)
Congrats!
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