MINOR DISCOMFORT
It’s not uncommon to experience soreness while wearing braces, especially after the braces are first placed, or after an adjustment. This soreness usually lasts from 1 to 4 days. As a general rule, the same medications that you would take for a headache are also effective for this type of discomfort. Motrin, aspirin, and Tylenol are the typical suggestions. If the patient is under 12, please take care to follow the appropriate instructions for reduced dosage on the label.
The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this. We will show you how! Salt water rinses are also helpful. Stir 1 teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of warm water.
CARE OF APPLIANCES
To successfully complete your treatment plan, you must work together as a team with Dr. Danielle and the staff. The teeth and jaws can only move toward their corrected positions if prescribed appliances such as rubber bands, headgear or other appliances are consistently worn. Damaged and unworn appliances lengthen the treatment time.
BRUSHING
It is more important than ever to brush and floss regularly when you have braces so the teeth and gums are healthy after orthodontic treatment. Patients who do not keep their teeth clean may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning.
