Braces 101 in Denver, CO

When you get new braces at Dietmeier Orthodontics, it is very important to learn how to properly take care of them so that they can last. It is important to know that damaged appliances will cause a greater treatment time for the patient. If the wires and bands loosen, or a piece of the appliance comes off, it is crucial that your orthodontist is contacted immediately so the issue can be resolved.  Gently pushing a loose wire into place with the eraser end of a pencil can temporary fix the problem until your orthodontist can be seen. It is also important to hold onto any piece of the appliance if it happens to break off.

There are quite a few foods that need to be avoided when wearing braces. Examples of these foods are sticky or chewy foods, foods that are hard and crunchy, and food that requires patients to bite hard into them.  Gregory W. Dietmeier, DDS, MS, PC will have a complete list of the foods that can be eaten while wearing braces

Tenderness or soreness is very common when a patient is beginning treatment. This inconvenient pain will not last throughout the course of the treatment and can be relieved with over the counter pain medication like ibuprofen. However, as with all medications, it is very important to follow all directions while taking non-prescription medications.

Another common issue with braces is the feeling of loose teeth. This is normal among patients receiving orthodontic treatment. In order for the braces to straighten and reposition the teeth, they must first loosen them, so the teeth can be moved to the correct position.

If you have any questions or concerns about your braces, Gregory W. Dietmeier, DDS, MS, PC and the staff at Dietmeier Orthodontics are here to answer any questions.