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Answers
to Commonly-Asked Questions
Food
The appliance or bands you are wearing are not indestructible.
We ask that you avoid chewy, sticky, or hard foods-Please
use common sense. The list of "foods to avoid" include:
- Sticky,
chewy candies (i.e. caramels, licorice, gum, taffy,)
- Hard
breads (i.e. hard rolls and toast, pizza crust), hard
candy, and ice
- Chip
snacks including Fritos, Doritos, hard pretzels
Decay/Decalcification
Your teeth may decay underneath orthodontic bands if the
bands are loose. At each appointment we make certain that
your bands are tight. However, if you notice a loose band
or bracket, call us as soon as possible so that we can set
up a repair appointment. A more frequent problem, but one
that you can easily prevent, is decalcification or staining
of the teeth. This may occur on areas of a tooth adjacent
to the band if you do not brush your teeth thoroughly after
each meal. Braces DO NOT cause decay/calcification - not
maintaining good oral hygiene does. Preventing this problem
is simple - it's up to you.
Soreness
Your teeth will usually feel sore for three to five days
after most orthodontic appointments. It helps to avoid hard
foods or vigorous chewing until the soreness disappears.
If you feel uncomfortable, take whatever you normally take
for discomfort (i.e. Advil, Tylenol, Aspirin). If the discomfort
persists beyond several days, please call us.
Hot
and Cold
During orthodontic treatment, you may find that your teeth
are sensitive to hot and cold. This is caused by the movement
of your teeth and is normal. It's rarely due to decay.
Sports
Mouthguards
All of our patients are strongly urged and expected to wear
mouthguards during sports participation. We will provide
free mouthguards during treatment and will be happy to fit
the mouthguard to your new appliances. Mouthguards must
fit properly, as too tight a fit might prohibit tooth movement
or cause breakage of appliances.
Musical
Instruments
Generally, playing a wind instrument won't interfere with
your orthodontic treatment unless you practice many hours
a day. At first, the appliance may irritate your lips. If
this becomes a problem, please call us.
Other
Dentistry
The fees for orthodontic treatment do not include any treatment
in other dental offices such as cleaning, examinations,
x-rays, restorations, the removal of teeth, gum surgery
or jaw surgery. Our patients are strongly urged and expected
to visit their family dentist at least every 6 months for
their routine checkups. Adult patients may wish to visit
their dentist more frequently: we advise every 3 to 4 months.
Emergencies
If you have an emergency on a weekend or on a day that the
office is closed, please call the office phone number. The
message will direct you to a person that is capable of handling
your emergency. If you are unable to contact us, contact
your family dentist or call Dr. Cordray at home.
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Food
