Removable Appliances
A fixed brace can be used to straighten crooked teeth like these.
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Removable Appliance
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Now that you have a fixed brace you may have some questions you would like answered.
Will it be painful?
It is likely to be sore for about 3-5 days each time the brace is adjusted. If necessary,
painkillers such as the ones you would normally take for a headache, may help (please
read the instructions on the packet). If there is an obvious area of soreness as
a result of the brace, ring for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible.
If possible, do not stop wearing the brace or else you will have to go through the
3-5 days of discomfort all over again when you start wearing it once more.
How else might it affect me?
Your speech will be different. Practice speaking with the brace in place e.g. read
out aloud at home on your own, and in this way your speech will return to normal
within a couple of days.
You may also find yourself swallowing a lot to begin with. This is quite normal
and will quickly pass.
Can I eat normally?
Yes you should be able to eat normally. However, for your orthodontic treatment
to work well and in the shortest possible time it is important you take care of
your teeth and brace. In order to prevent damage to both, you should:
Avoid eating toffees, boiled sweets, sugared chewing gum, chocolate bars, etc.
Avoid drinking tizzy drinks (including diet drinks) and excessive amounts of fruit
juice.
Take care eating hard foods which might damage the brace such as crunchy apples,
crusty bread, etc. Cut them up first.
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A removable brace
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What about toothbrushing?
It is important you brush your teeth well, three times per day and use a fluoride
toothpaste. If possible carry a brush with you for use after lunch. Pay particular
attention to brush where the gums meet the teeth. Brushing may take a little longer
when you have a fixed brace. A daily fluoride mouth rinse should also be used last
thing at night, after toothbrushing, to further protect the teeth. Failure to keep
your teeth and brace clean will lead to permanent scarring of your teeth as shown
in the previous picture.
Can I remove the brace?
Yes but you should only remove it for cleaning. Do not repeatedly click the brace
in and out with your tongue as this will break the wires and increase the length
of time the treatment will take.
How Long will treatment take?
It usually takes 6 - 24 months but will vary according to how severe your case is.
Failed and cancelled appointments, or repeated breakages of the brace will increase
the length of time the treatment will take.
How often will I need appointment?
You will need regular appointments during treatment for the brace to be adjusted.
Do I still need to see my regular dentist?
Yes. It will be important you still have checkups with your regular dentist throughout
orthodontic treatment so that your teeth can be checked for decay.
What if I play contact sports?
You should wear a gum shield instead of your removable appliance when you play contact
sports. This will also be the case if you enjoy riding a bicycle, roller-skating
or skateboarding. You will be advised about this. When not in your mouth the brace
should be in a protective box.
Fixed Appliances
Retainers
Removal Appliances
Functional Appliances
Headgear
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