Why have I been referred to the orthodontist?
Your dentist has referred you to the orthodontist as they feel you may benefit from orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist is a special type of dentist who is skilled in moving your teeth to change the way they look.
My brace hurts, what should I do?
Whatever sort of brace you have (whether it is fixed, removable or functional) it is likely that it will be sore for 3-5 days after each adjustment. If necessary ordinary painkillers, such as the ones you would take for a headache, may help (be sure to read the instructions on the package with regard to dosage etc.) If there is an obviously sore area, please contact us for an appointment.
My brace is affecting my speech, what can I do?
It is not unusual for your brace to affect your speech. The best thing to do is practice speaking with the brace in. Try reading out loud to yourself at home and within a couple of days your speech should be back to normal.
Can I eat normally with my brace?
It is possible to eat normally with a brace, whether it is fixed or removable. If the brace is removable, it is important that you eat with it in (unless otherwise instructed by the orthodontist). Eating with the brace in will become easier over time. It is also important that the brace is removed, rinsed thoroughly, and then replaced after each meal. It is important to avoid some types of food and drink. These include:
- sweets, chocolates and other foods with lots of sugar;
- fizzy drinks, even diet ones;
- hard foods that may break the brace (i.e. apples, crusty bread etc.)
What about cleaning my teeth?
It is very important that you brush your teeth thoroughly three times a day - preferably after meals - and that a good fluoride toothpaste is used. When cleaning your teeth, the brace should be taken out (unless it's a fixed appliance). The brace should be gently brushed, taking care not to damage it. It is also a good idea to use a daily fluoride mouthwash after cleaning your teeth. If you do not keep your teeth and brace clean then permanent discolouration of your teeth may occur.
I play sports, should I wear my brace whilst playing?
Your brace can be taken out (if not fixed) during sports activities (this includes riding a bike, skateboarding, roller-skating etc), but a gumshield should be worn instead. Make sure your brace is safe in its protective box.
My brace is broken, what should I do?
If your brace has broken it is important that you ring up for an appointment as soon as possible. Please do not wait for your next routine appointment as the progress made so far may be undone.
Can I take my brace out?
If your brace is either a functional or removable brace, you must keep it in unless otherwise instructed. It should, however, be removed after eating to clean it.
How long will my treatment take?
Typically treatment usually takes 6 to 24 months, depending on how severe your case is. The length of treatment will be increased if you cancel too many appointments, or you fail to turn up to appointments. Breaking the brace will also increase the treatment time.