Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my brackets come off?

Should your brackets become dislodged, there's no cause for concern. Simply and cautiously remove the loose bracket from your mouth. Contact our office promptly to schedule a repair appointment. If you experience any discomfort, alleviate it by applying orthodontic wax to the affected area, covering it and reducing irritation.

What should I do if my wire is poking or sticking out?

If you find a wire is poking or sticking out, it's important to avoid attempting any do-it-yourself fixes, such as using nail clippers to trim the wire. In case the wire causes discomfort, you can use orthodontic wax to cover the affected area and minimize irritation. As soon as possible, reach out to our office and schedule an appointment so we can address the issue.

What should I do if my aligner is cracked or damaged?

If you notice that your aligner is cracked or damaged, it is important to discontinue its use right away and contact our office to arrange an appointment for a replacement. Wearing a damaged aligner can potentially cause additional issues and lengthen your treatment duration. In the interim, please continue wearing your previous aligner as instructed.

How do I properly clean my braces?

It's important to brush your teeth and braces after every meal or snack. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. You can also use interdental brushes, floss threaders, and water flossers to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Can I still play sports while wearing braces?

Absolutely! You can participate in sports even if you have braces; however, we highly recommend wearing a custom-fit mouthguard to safeguard both your teeth and braces. These specialized mouthguards are specifically designed for braces and can be obtained at our office.

Can I still eat my favorite foods with braces?

Certain foods should be avoided while wearing braces, such as hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the braces or get stuck in them. However, there are still plenty of options for delicious and healthy foods that won't harm your braces.

How can I deal with discomfort from braces?

It's normal to experience some discomfort after getting braces or after an adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, as well as eating soft foods and avoiding hard or sticky foods for a few days. You may also cover brackets that cause soft tissue irritation with orthodontic wax.

How do I turn my expander (RPE)?