Download Braces After Care - Reedyford Dental Centre

Instructions For Your Braces (Orthodontic
Appliances)
Our aim is for your treatment to be completed as quickly as possible
to a high standard. For this to succeed it is important that you follow
these instructions.
Diet
A normal diet is recommended, but generally cut food up smaller to reduce
the chewing required. Never bite hard against the appliance. Sticky or hard
sweets and chewing gum are completely banned for the duration of the
treatment. Fizzy drinks such as Coca Cola should be avoided.
Oral Hygiene
Food will tend to stick around the teeth more than normal. This may cause
decay, or gum infection unless extra care is taken with tooth brushing. Use
a small soft toothbrush with the fluoride toothpaste of your choice, or the
toothpaste prescribed by us, for cleaning the appliance, teeth and gums.
Brush for two or three minutes after every meal and last thing at night. Pay
special attention to each individual tooth and the gum margins. We advise
you to buy a brace care pack available at reception.
Removable Appliances
Some of your treatment may include the use of a removable brace. It is
important you wear this exactly as instructed. This includes wearing the
appliance at all times except for the brushing of your teeth.
If you fail to keep your teeth and brace clean we will have to abandon
the treatment to avoid permanent damage being done.
Possible Problems
Loose bands or brackets may occur. If detected please contact the
practice. Please do NOT attempt to remove them yourself. The teeth may
be a little tender for a few days when a new wire is fitted. Your usual
painkiller may help. Sharp edges or wires may occasionally irritate the lip
or cheek. You can buy some soft wax from us to apply as a temporary
measure.
The Use of Elastics
We sometimes use small elastic bands "elastics" to apply a force on the
teeth. When elastics are given, they form an essential part of treatment.
They must be worn exactly as instructed. Do ask for extra elastics if you
run out.
Appointments
It is essential that you attend all booked appointments. Failure to attend, or
cancellations on the day of your appointment, may result in us having to
stop your treatment.