Frequently Asked Questions
Dental Hygiene
How can I keep my teeth clean while wearing braces?
Oral hygiene is more important when you have additional appliances like braces attached to your teeth. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day or after meals to remove any plaque build-up and stuck food particles. Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove any food stuck between your teeth and the metal components of braces.
How Many Times a Day Should You Brush with Braces?
You should brush your teeth at least twice daily to remove any plaque buildup. When you have braces, it should be even more frequent to remove any debris stuck between your teeth and the metal components of braces.
Can I Floss with Braces?
Absolutely! Flossing with braces is done the same way as you would without braces, except that the floss must be threaded under the archwire and between the teeth using a floss threader. You may also use water flossers to remove plaque and food particles effectively.
Do I still need to see my general dentist for a routine check-up and clean?
Routine check-ups and dental cleaning are essential, especially when wearing braces. It will help keep tooth decay and gum problems at bay, making your orthodontic treatment work effectively. If an infection develops during orthodontic treatment, we have no choice but to stop treatment until the infection clears.
Retainers
Are retainers included in my orthodontic fee?
Yes! Your orthodontic treatment fee includes all appliances, braces, and all office visits required to complete your planned treatment.
What are the types of retainers?
Retainers can be fixed or removable. Fixed retainers are typically bonded at the back of the teeth. Removable retainers are made of either a transparent plastic tray or wires and clasps. There is no single type for everyone, and we will recommend what we believe is best for your situation.
How long should I wear my retainers?
The exact length of time will vary by patient. Some patients may only need to wear a retainer full-time for several weeks, while others may need many months.
What should I do if I’ve lost or broke my retainer?
Definitely let our office know, so we can see you as soon as possible to make new retainers.
Braces Care
What foods are not okay to eat with braces?
Avoid the following:
Sticky foods: caramels, candy bars, candies like starbursts
Hard foods: nuts, hard candy, beef jerky, popcorn
Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apple, carrots
Can I still play sports with braces?
Absolutely! Although we recommend that you wear a mouthguard for all contact sports.
What do “rubber bands” do?
Rubber bands or orthodontic elastics are used to help braces in moving teeth to their positions. Make sure you wear them according to the directions prescribed for you by Dr. Pinsak or Dr. Sayania. Otherwise, the treatment can slow down considerably.
Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not hurt. However, it can make you feel uncomfortable and sore during the first few days of certain visits. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort.
Emergency Care with Braces
What to do with a poking wire?
If the end of an orthodontic archwire is poking at the back of the mouth, attempt to put wax over the area to protect the cheek. If you are uncomfortable, call us to schedule an appointment and have that clipped.
What to do with a broken bracket?
If your bracket has become loose, you may try to put orthodontic wax around the area and reattach it with wax to minimize the movement. Then call our office immediately to schedule an appointment to reattach the bracket to the tooth.
What should I do with lip and cheek irritations?
If you experience any irritation or mouth sores due to a poking wire or bracket, place orthodontic wax on the culprit. Dry the tooth with cotton or tissue, break off a piece of wax, roll it into a ball, and roll it over the bracket and wire until it sticks in position.
Why do my teeth feel loose?
Orthodontic treatment involves moving your teeth to their ideal position, which may make them sore and wobbly. For the first 2 to 3 days after braces have been adjusted, it is normal for your teeth to feel slightly loose.