Children and Early Treatments The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children should see an orthodontist no later than age seven. Children are constantly growing, so catching problems with jaw growth and tooth development early allows us to capitalize on natural growth and jaw development and normalize many growth issues as they occur to create a straight and healthy smile. Problems such as oversized or undersized jaws, crowding, thumb and finger sucking, and crossbites may be corrected early and prevent future issues as the teeth and jaw relationships develop.

Adolescents and Teens

When the permanent teeth erupt, each patient should be monitored for orthodontic treatment. Issues with tooth alignment, crowding, spacing, jaw positions, and occlusion (bite), which can cause dental problems in the future, are often more easily treated while adolescents are still growing. In fact, missing out on this important phase of growth may mean that surgery or tooth extractions are more likely later on.

Adult Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. For adults, the appearance of braces may be a concern. Dr. Jones is happy to offer esthetic alternatives to conventional metal braces.

Adult orthodontic treatment is similar to treatment in adolescents, but there are some differences. Adults may have experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone that supports the teeth and may require gum and dental treatment in conjunction with orthodontics. Also, more frequent cleanings at the dentist's office are often required to maintain healthy gums and teeth. During your orthodontic consultation, Dr. Jones will explain the best procedures and cleaning schedules to follow in order to make your treatment comfortable and healthy.

Your comfort during orthodontic treatment is very important to us! We hope that your experience with braces will be positive. Some soreness is to be expected, especially during the first few days with your new braces. True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, and most issues can be resolved at home. If you are experiencing severe pain or have a problem you aren't able to resolve at home, call the office so that we can help you resolve your problem or schedule an appointment to correct it. When you call, it is important to describe the problem and which part of your braces is causing it so we can adequately alleviate the issue. Here are some common issues and some ways to help relieve braces discomfort:

Pokey Wires

As teeth shift, the wires may also shift. Most wires have either a dimple or some markings between the front two teeth. If the wire shifts, the dimples or markings will appear off center. By sliding the wire back on-center the pokey wire may feel better. Use your fingers or a tweezers to help slide the wire on-center. If the poking persists, you may use some wax to cover the end of the wire poking you. Wax is safe and effective; don't be afraid to cover any and all irritating areas with it. Wax sticks better when teeth and braces are dry, so try swallowing and keeping the area as dry as possible before applying the wax. As a last resort, a pair of nail clippers can be used to clip small poking wires.

If a wire that is wrapped around a bracket becomes pokey, use an eraser or the dull end of a spoon to tuck the poking wire close to the tooth to relieve the problem.

If a wire comes out of one of the brackets, try using tweezers to re-place the wire into the bracket.

Loose brackets or bands

Most loose brackets or bands are a result of eating foods on the do not eat list we'll give you at your first appointment. That being said, loose brackets do happen sometimes and are not an emergency in most cases. If the bracket or band that is loose comes off of the wire, save it and use wax or cotton to cover any poking wires until we can see you. If the loose bracket stays on the wire, leave it there and use wax to keep it from becoming irritating. Please call our office and let us know when a band or bracket becomes loose.

Headgear or rubber bands are sore

Headgear and rubber bands take several days to get used to at first. Wear them as your orthodontist instructs. They need to be worn as much as prescribed in order for the soreness to go away. If headgear or elastics (rubber bands) are still causing soreness after a week, they may need to be adjusted, call our office for instructions.

Sore teeth, lips, and cheeks

Soreness is normal for the first few days after braces are placed or adjusted. Lips and cheeks will become tougher over time, so take heart Initially, you may need to take some pain-killers (whichever you use for a headache works well for braces pain). Warm salt-water rinses (one teaspoon in a cup of warm water) help soothe sore areas. Ease your way into eating. Soft foods chewed slowly will help you get used to eating and reduce pain. Keep your cheeks and mouth hydrated, drink plenty of water and use lip balm to prevent cheek and lip irritation. Most importantly, use wax! Wax will be your best friend as you get used to your braces.

It is not unusual for teeth to get loose when they are moved. This looseness is a normal part of the process and the teeth will firm back up when the orthodontic movement stops.