Congratulations!
You are now on your way to a gorgeous smile!
You’re on the path to an incredible smile that will open up a world of possibilities and opportunities. Get ready to smile with confidence!
Playing Sports with Braces
Good news for all you athletes out there – you can continue your sports activities during your orthodontic treatment! However, we recommend wearing a mouth guard for the protection of your teeth and appliance. If you need help choosing the right mouth guard, just ask us. If you have a sports-related incident, check for any damage to your mouth and appliance. If you find loose teeth or damage to your appliance, please contact our office immediately. You can alleviate discomfort temporarily with wax or warm saltwater rinses.
Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Elastics or rubber bands help enhance the fit of your upper and lower teeth (your bite). Follow the instructions on when and how to wear them, and remember, they work more effectively when worn as directed.
Retainers
Retainers, which can be either removable or fixed, maintain the new, correct positions of your teeth after they have been straightened. Your orthodontist will guide you on the care and duration of your retainer wear. Follow the instructions to avoid regression of your treatment.
Palatal Expander
The palatal expander gently widens your upper jaw by applying pressure on your molars with each adjustment. Your orthodontist will guide you on the adjustment process. For achieving the desired expansion and to prevent regression, you must wear the appliance for several months.
Turbos
Also known as speed bumps or bite blocks, turbos, in combination with your diligent rubber band wear, can accelerate your treatment. They also prevent damage to lower braces by limiting how much you can bite down. Initially, it might be challenging to eat with turbos, but remember, they are temporary and help move your teeth more easily and quickly.
Positioners
Positioners make the final adjustments in your orthodontic treatment. With your full cooperation, you’ll only need to wear the positioner for four to eight weeks.
Separators or Spacers
Separators, or little rubber doughnuts, may be placed between your teeth to create space for orthodontic bands during your next appointment. Avoid sticky foods, toothpicks, or floss while wearing them as they can dislodge the separators.
Open Coil Springs
These compressed springs help create space for erupting or blocked out teeth. Initially, they may cause slight irritation to your lips.
Cinches
When you first get your braces the wire is a starting wire that is very flexible. You’ll notice the wire curled and tucked away from your cheek to prevent the wire from flexing out of the back bracket.
Colors
Colors are your reward for excellent brushing! Our state-of-the-art brackets don’t require colored ties, but if you want a bit of fun, we can add colored ties around the upper braces for decoration!