WHAT TO EXPECT (BRACES)
For those (children, teenagers, or adults alike) that are looking for a more traditional treatment option for straightening their teeth, Walt Orthodontics is pleased to offer LightForce custom ceramic (clear) as well as metal braces. We use the most innovative and groundbreaking technology to provide our patients with the most up to date and relevant treatment methods.
LIFE WITH BRACES
SEE WHAT BRACES WILL ENTAIL DURING YOUR TREATMENT PLAN.
Here’s everything you need to know and what to expect when you embark on your bespoke braces smile journey.
YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT
At Walt Orthodontics we do our best to make your first braces appointment quick, and easy. The procedure itself is painless and lasts for about one hour. There are no needles or freezing done. Feel free to bring some music to help pass the time and don’t forget to brush and floss before you come. If you don’t have a chance we will make sure your teeth are nice and clean before we begin.
We will then insert some cheek stretchers to keep your mouth open and dry, as well as your tongue in place. We will dry your teeth and apply a gel to make the tooth surface ideal for bonding.
Next, the braces will be placed on your teeth using a special orthodontic adhesive. A curing light will be used to harden the adhesive and set the bond. Finally, we will run the wire through the brackets and clip or tie it in place. Kids love to pick colours to decorate their braces and we have lots of colours to choose from. We will go over all the instructions on how to care for your braces and what foods to avoid.
APPOINTMENTS
For 24-48 hours after getting your braces or adjustments, colder foods will be soothing, and softer foods will be easier to eat. Foods such as soups, pasta, yogurt, and smoothies should be eaten, especially if your teeth feel sore.
Feel free to take pain medication (such as Tylenol or Advil) for any discomfort you feel, following the dosing instructions on the bottle. Rest assured this will dissipate as treatment goes on.
ORAL HYGIENE
Brushing teeth should be 3 times per day for 3 minutes each time. Try to brush your teeth after every meal, but if it is not possible then at the very least, you should rinse your mouth with water. It is imperative to brush your teeth very well and floss at least once per day with special floss threaders as any food particles stuck on your teeth and in your braces and wires could cause decay and cavities.
We offer instructions as well as special brushes and flossing tools to reach under the wires. You will be given a full set at your first appointment.
Using a daily rinse such as Listerine® Total Care Zero can also reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Please brush before each appointment at home or at our brushing station in our office.
It is also important to have regular dental cleanings and check-ups at your regular dental office every 3-6 months.
TYPICAL TREATMENT TIMELINE
Treatment varies from patient to patient but for limited braces treatment, the length would be 12 to 15 months and for full comprehensive treatment needs you can expect the timeline to be 18 to 24 months.
ORTHODONTIC EMERGENCIES
We are here to help you if you experience any problems with your braces. In the event that you are experiencing a true orthodontic emergency, meaning you are in significant pain, bleeding or swelling due to your braces and it is outside of office hours, if you cannot wait, you should visit your nearest dental emergency clinic.
For more minor orthodontic problems (broken brackets, poking wires or loose appliances), please text our office at 289.205.4999 or email us at info@waltortho.com along with a picture of the problem, and we will schedule you accordingly.
If a minor orthodontic emergency occurs when the office is closed, the wax we provided you with at your initial bonding (in your braces kit) should be used. Make sure you always have some at home, and let us know if you run out, we would be glad to give you more.
See our full Additional Care page for more information on other common issues.
ADDITIONAL CARE INFORMATION
Please see our Additional Care Information page for more in depth information on care and combating common issues.
FIRST DAYS WITH BRACES
EATING WITH BRACES
BRUSHING TEETH WITH BRACES
ORAL HYGIENE AND BRACES
FLOSSING WITH BRACES
COMMON PROBLEMS
ORTHODONTIC EMERGENCIES
TYPES OF BRACES
You have options. we’ll break down what may be best for you bepsoke smile during your free initial consultation.
