Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.

Absolutely! Patients receiving orthodontic treatment are advised to see their dentist regularly. With braces, this becomes imperative because food can get caught in places within the braces that the regular toothbrush cannot reach. This can cause bacteria to build up and cause cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease…not fun. Luckily, your dentist will work closely with your orthodontics to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy during the course of wearing your braces.

With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn’t able to reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.

Braces do not often hurt; however, you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth gets used to your new braces.

The amount of time spent in braces varies depending on the individual patient because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months; however, most standard treatments take about 22 months.

Braces are used by your orthodontist to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:

• Damon Clear braces
• Damon braces
• Insignia braces
• Invisible braces
• Invisalign

• ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
• Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
• If you take out your retainer to eat, brush your teeth or floss,  remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.
• Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
• During your orthodontic treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities).
• Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes) or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc).
• Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.