Activating the braces to move teeth usually will result in some initial discomfort. This usually lasts about 48 to 72 hours, and then the teeth are comfortable again. Each succeeding adjustment will mean some minor discomfort, although our patients report a lessening of pain as the treatment progresses.

Following an orthodontic adjustment, our office would be happy to write a note to your parents suggesting some of your favorite soft foods at dinner time. This is an effective way to pick what you'll be having for dinner. (When Dr. Cusack had braces his personal favorite was mashed potatoes and gravy!)

Even though you are careful, you still may occasionally do some damage to your appliances. If a band comes loose from a tooth, CALL OUR OFFICE AT ONCE. While a tight band actually protects a tooth from decay, a loose band is extremely dangerous and decay under it occurs very rapidly.

If you are out of town: Have an orthodontist or dentist cut the little fine wire and take off the band. Keep all the parts and bring them in when you come back to our office.

If a main archwire breaks (the one that goes all the way around the outside of your braces), call our office for an emergency appointment.

If a small wire breaks, carefully remove it and call our office. If you are unable to take care of a sticking wire, place some wax over the sticker. This wax is provided for you by our office. Any time you need more, just ask us.

Sometimes a sticker can be safely turned down so that it no longer causes you discomfort. Ask someone at home to take a pencil eraser, or some other smooth object, and tuck the offending little wire back in out of the way.

If you are involved in contact sports, a regular mouthguard can be fitted over your braces for added protection.