FAQ
Does it hurt?Most people say they feel pressure or tightness after getting braces and sometimes after adjustment appointments. Minor discomfort is normal for the first few days after you get your braces and after your adjustment appointments. Advil, Tylenol or ibuprofen should be taken (unless allergic to these medications) around the clock as prescribed on the bottle for 3-4 days after these appointments to greatly relieve any discomfort. Also, soft foods like pastas, eggs, bananas, yogurt and ice cream may help.
Some people say their teeth feel loose a couple of days after their visits. This also is normal. As your teeth move to their correct positions, they will feel loose. Don’t worry-this is only temporary! The teeth will stop feeling loose once they are in their correct position.
What do I do about the sores on the inside of my mouth?
Expect, from time to time, that your cheeks and lips may become irritated. You will eventually build-up a callous. If an ulcer forms, use the wax that we gave you and place it over the braces that seem to be causing the problem. The wax will stay in place even while eating if you make sure that the area is dry before putting the wax in place. Pull off a small piece, roll it up in a little ball and stick it over the braces. Orabase-B can also help with discomfort if applied over the area. Ulcers generally take 7-10 days to heal. Warm salt water rinses can also aid in healing. Call us if a lesion lasts more than 2 weeks.
Do I still have to see my dentist for cleanings and check-ups?
YES, YES, YES. Please continue to see your dentist for regularly scheduled cleanings. We would like to see you go at least every 6 months to stay on top of things. This is very important. Your dentist may ask that your wires be removed before the cleaning appointment. This makes the hygienist’s job quite a bit easier. If you schedule a cleaning appointment, please let us know in advance (at least 4 weeks) so that we can coordinate appointments with both offices.
What do I do if…?
If a bracket or band comes loose, or if you have any problems with your braces, please refer to the Emergency section of this website for potential solutions.
