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Emergency
What should be done during a true orthodontic emergency?
If a true orthodontic emergency arises (ex., something cutting or preventing mouth closure), please call our office at (508) 539-0355 immediately. If it is a true orthodontic emergency requiring immediate assistance, instructions for contacting Dr. Nick will be provided. If an emergency is life-threatening, please call 911 or immediately visit the nearest emergency room.
What should I do with a poking wire?
It is normal to experience poking wire as teeth move and excess wire slides at the back of your teeth. However, please do not do any DIY fixes you find online such as pushing with an eraser or cutting with nail clippers. If it irritates your cheeks, roll a ball of orthodontic wax and place it over the extended wire irritating your cheek.
What should I do when a bracket pops off?
If the bracket is still attached to the wire, you may roll a small piece of orthodontic wax, place it over the bracket, and press it onto the tooth to keep it in place. If the bracket pops out of the mouth completely, wash it carefully, keep it in a clean, small container, and bring it to your next appointment with Dr. Nick.
Orthodontic Terms
What are the types of braces?
What are the types of braces?
Metal braces: Brackets are made of stainless steel, and the wire is held in place by colorful rubber elastics.
Ceramic braces: Components are similar to metal braces, except that the brackets are tooth-colored or translucent for a more aesthetic option.
Self-ligating braces: There are no rubber elastics. The brackets have a door mechanism that keeps the wire in place.
Ceramic braces: Components are similar to metal braces, except that the brackets are tooth-colored or translucent for a more aesthetic option.
Self-ligating braces: There are no rubber elastics. The brackets have a door mechanism that keeps the wire in place.
What is tongue thrusting?
Tongue thrusting is a motion wherein the tongue habitually moves forward and out of the mouth. When this happens, the tongue may push the back of the teeth and make your or your child's front teeth move forward. It can create gaps between teeth or open bite, leading to long-term damage to speech.
What is a palatal expander for?
A palatal expander is an orthodontic appliance used to expand the jaw to gain space during excessive dental crowding. It is usually used in children and teens to prevent tooth extraction in the future.
Brushing and Flossing
How often should I brush and floss my teeth during orthodontic treatment?
When you have braces, it is very important to brush and floss 2-3 times a day or after every meal to keep tooth decay and gum disease at bay during your orthodontic treatment. With metal components of your braces, there is an additional area where food and plaque can accumulate. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy will prevent interrupting your orthodontic treatment.
How can I floss easily while I have braces?
To easily and efficiently clean areas between your teeth, you may use water flossers, interdental brushes, or floss threaders. Our team will be glad to teach you how to use these oral hygiene tools effectively.
Invisalign® Care
How to clean my Invisalign trays?
Remember to remove your clear aligners before eating or drinking. Brush your teeth before putting back your aligners to prevent food from adhering to your trays. You may clean your aligners with running water or soak them with cleansing tablets for a few minutes. Never soak them in hot water, as it can cause breakage or deformity.
What if I lose or break an aligner. What should I do?
Contact our office immediately. Try if the previous set of aligners still fits. If they do, wear them until your appointment with Dr. Nick or replacement trays have been given.
Braces Care
What color of elastics can I choose from?
We have collected every rainbow color; you can choose whichever you like! Patients with clear braces can choose to have clear ties on their braces or have colors too! We want our patients to enjoy their treatment with us, and we do what we can to make it fun.
My teeth feel loose. Is it normal?
During the first few days after we place your braces and a few days after every adjustment appointment, you'll feel slight discomfort, like your teeth are loose or tender. It is normal and is a good sign that your teeth are moving to their ideal positions.
Retainers Care
How long should I wear my retainers?
How long you need to wear your retainers varies per individual, duration of orthodontic treatment, and age. Dr. Nick will guide you and let you know how long you should wear your retainers.
If I lose or break my retainers, will you provide a complementary replacement?
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