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 Will the braces cause discomfort? (top of page)
Initially, the braces feel like they "stick out". This is normal. As
you become accustomed to your braces and tooth alignment improves, this sensation will disappear.
You may find it helpful to use a small piece of beeswax around
any bracket that is causing irritation. If your supply of wax runs out, call our office.
You will probably notice some discomfort and soreness after the braces are
placed, this usually goes away within one week. You may wish to take nonprescription pain remedies to ease the discomfort.
 How do I fit orthodontics into my busy schedule?
(top of page)
We have devoted considerable time and effort into our scheduling system. Here is what we want to do.
1. We want to see you on time for your appointment.
2. We want to have adequate time during each appointment to do the necessary procedures.
3. We want to answer questions and update your treatment progress.
In addition, we will work with you to schedule around your school or work hours as much as possible.
 What if I have an emergency? (top of page)
If a tie wire is irritating your mouth, cover it with beeswax or tuck it under the archwire using a blunt
object like a pencil eraser or a Q-tip.
A loose band or bracket can generally be left in place
until seen in our office. Call the office during normal business hours as soon as you notice a loose band or bracket so that we can schedule an appointment to
reattach the loose appliances.
 What can harm my braces? (learn more)
(top of page)
Braces have been attached to your teeth with an adhesive which normally will withstand the forces of
eating. However, certain foods such as nuts, hard candy, corn chips and even crisp taco shells can harm your braces and should be avoided.  Also, chewing ice cubes can be very destructive. Some foods such
as whole apples, raw carrots or celery must be cut to avoid damaging your braces.
Chewy foods like gum, caramels, and even thick bread crusts can bend and distort wires causing
treatment delays and extra visits for repairs. Popcorn can cause harm in multiple ways and should be avoided.
 When do I brush? (learn more)
(top of page)
Please spend 3 to 5 minutes brushing. If your gums bleed
when you brush, or get puffy and sore, it means that you are not brushing the gums enough. The braces themselves do not irritate the gums, the food and plaque left on your teeth do.
Use prevident rinse prior to bedtime after brushing, swishing well in all hard-to
-clean areas for one minute. Do not eat or drink anything for 30 minutes after using the rinse. We sell the prevident rinse in a gallon size (at our cost) for $30
.00 This is considered a prescription drug.
 Every 6 months, visit your regular dentist for a cleaning and checkup. This is especially important during orthodontic treatment.
 How long are retainers worn? (top of page)
The final observation and retention period of treatment
normally spans approximately two years. During this period, appointments are scheduled with decreasing frequency. Retainers are worn at all times during the
first twelve months after braces are removed, except when brushing, flossing, or during active sports. You
should wear the retainer while eating at school to prevent it being misplaced.
As retention continues, the retainers are generally worn at night. In all cases,
indefinite wear on a part-time basis is recommended to help maintain the desired changes that have been achieved.
 What if a retainer is lost or broken? (top of page)
Phone the office right away for an appointment to replace
or repair your retainer. Although there may be a charge for replacement or repair, it is a relatively inexpensive way to protect the investment you have made in your
orthodontic care.
How does our office handle infection control and sterilization?
(top of page)
Today, safety is on everyone's mind. Safety in the orthodontic office is no
exception. So, we want you to know about our infection control and sterilization procedures. We use Universal Precautions for each patient:
 Barrier Control - which are recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA
), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA). They include the use of masks and protective eye wear, when
indicated, and the use of new gloves for each patient.
Ultrasonic Rinsing - of all the tools and instruments after each patient prior to sterilization.
Steam Sterilization - of all tools and instruments, killing all microorganisms
with heat after each patient appointment.
Disposable Items - are used whenever possible and are always discarded
once used or exposed to the clinical environment.
Disinfectants - are applied to chairs, counter tops and other surface areas in all treatment rooms.
CPR & FBAOC (Foreign Body Airway Obstruction) - Dr. Ingleman and all of
his staff are certified in both of these important procedures.
We are committed to staying current with the latest in infection control and
sterilization guidelines. When you visit our office, you can feel confident that your health - and the health of your family - is protected.
If you have other questions, please feel free to contact us.
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