AFTERCARE
Do You Know How To Care For Your Braces?
Greystone Orthodontics
will help educate you on the proper ways to care for your braces. We understand you may experience minor problems during your time wearing braces. We give you simple solutions you can fix at home before your next regularly scheduled appointment in our office. If you feel you are unable to handle a problem on your own, please call Greystone Orthodontics as soon as possible. If you notice broken wires, loose bands, or detached brackets, contact us to schedule a check-up.
Simple, At-Home Solutions
Loose Band or Bracket
If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place. If uncomfortable, place wax on it. If it comes out completely, just throw the brace or bracket away.
Loose Wire
Try to place the wire back in place with tweezers. If that is not possible, clip wire with fingernail clippers behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If any discomfort, place wax on it.
Poking Wire
Try to push sticking wire down with a spoon or eraser. If not possible, place wax on it.
Lost Tiewire or Elastic Tie
Notify us at the next appointment.
Soreness
Use warm salt water rinse and/or Tylenol.
Headgear Does Not Fit
Sometimes caused by not wearing as prescribed.
Loose Appliance
If the appliance is sticking or poking, place wax on it.
Warning: Stay Away From These Foods
Greystone Orthodontics recommends not eating any hard or sticky foods. We suggest using your best judgment before choosing to eat something as not all potentially damaging foods may be listed below. Hard or sticky foods loosen braces and bend wires meant to guide your teeth in proper alignment. We ask that you limit excessive biting and chewing on non-food items such as pens, pencils, nails, and other hard items.
- Apples
- Bagels
- Beef Jerky / Slim Jims
- Caramel Candies
- Chips
- Gum
- Hard Bread / Rolls
- Hard Candy
- Hard Taco Shells
- Ice
- Nuts
- Pizza Crust
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Raw Carrots
- Ribs
- Suckers