What You Need to Know!

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At Kurti Orthodontics, we take pride in educating our patients about their orthodontic treatment options. We understand that orthodontic care is an investment in your lifelong oral health, and we want you to feel confident and secure in your decision to partner with us. We have compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to help you understand what to expect during your orthodontic treatment. Additionally, we invite you to explore our smile gallery to see real-life examples of how our treatments can transform your smile.

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Frequently Asked Questions About:

Damon Braces

Q: What types of foods should I avoid while wearing braces?

A: It is important to avoid sticky and chewy foods such as gum, caramel, and taffy, as they can damage the brackets and wires. Additionally, hard and crunchy foods like nuts, ice, and hard candies should be avoided to prevent any potential breakages.

Q: How often should I brush my teeth while wearing braces?

A: It is important to brush your teeth after every meal and snack, or at least three times a day. Brushing thoroughly will help remove any food particles that may have become trapped in your braces and ensure good oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment.

Q: Is it normal to experience discomfort or soreness after getting braces?

A: It is common to experience some discomfort or soreness after getting braces or having adjustments made. This is because your teeth are gradually being moved into their new positions. Over-the-counter pain relievers and applying wax to the brackets can help alleviate any discomfort. If the pain persists or becomes severe, contact our office for further guidance.

Q: How long will I need to wear braces?

A: The duration of your orthodontic treatment can vary depending on the complexity of your case. On average, braces are worn for about 1-3 years. Dr. Kurti will be able to provide a more accurate estimate after evaluating your specific situation during your initial consultation.

Q: Can I still participate in sports or play musical instruments while wearing braces?

A: Yes, you can still participate in sports and play musical instruments while wearing braces. However, it is recommended to wear a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your braces and mouth. For playing musical instruments, there may be an adjustment period, but you should be able to continue playing with slight modifications if necessary.

Clear Aligners

Q: What are clear aligners?

A: Clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment option that uses a series of clear plastic trays to gently move teeth into proper alignment. They are designed to be virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.

Q: How do clear aligners compare to traditional metal braces?

A: Clear aligners offer a more discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. Unlike metal braces, clear aligners are made from clear plastic, are barely noticeable, and do not require metal wires or brackets. Clear aligners can also be removed for cleaning and eating.

Q: How long does the clear aligner treatment process take?

A: The length of treatment with clear aligners can vary depending on the degree of misalignment, but it typically lasts between 6 to 18 months. Dr. Kurti will be able to provide an estimate during your initial consultation.

Q: Are at-home clear aligner treatments safe and effective?

A: At-home clear aligner treatments may not be as effective as in-office treatments that involve an orthodontist’s professional care and supervision. Straightening teeth requires careful monitoring of the process to ensure that the teeth are moving safely and effectively. In-office clear aligner treatments provide a higher level of safety and effectiveness than at-home treatments.

Q: How do I care for my clear aligners?

A: To keep your clear aligners clean and odor-free, it’s important to clean them regularly using a toothbrush and a cleaning solution made for retainers. Always store your aligners in the case when not wearing them, and follow any additional instructions provided by Dr. Kurti for the best care of your aligners.

Retainers

Q: How do I clean my removable retainer?

A: You can clean your removable retainer by brushing it with toothpaste and a toothbrush daily. Additionally, you can use a denture soak or refresher to soak your retainer throughout the day. Make sure to always keep your retainer in the provided case when not in use.

Q: How do I care for my permanent bonded retainer wire?

A: You can clean your permanent retainer by using a floss threader to pull floss behind the wire, sliding it across the back of the wire and between the teeth in order to remove food and plaque. You can also use the bristles of your toothbrush or a proxabrush. If your bonded wire comes loose, contact your orthodontist for assistance. Be careful with sticky foods and avoid chewing ice.

Q: Should I avoid sports or athletics while wearing retainers?

A: No, sports or athletics can still be participated in while wearing retainers. It is recommended to use an athletic mouthguard whenever engaging in contact sports to protect your lips, mouth, and braces from injury. Alternatively, Kurti Orthodontics can take an impression for a custom-fitted mouth guard which can be replaced at least once during your orthodontic treatment.

Q: How long do I need to wear my retainer?

A: The duration of retainer wear varies from patient to patient and is determined by Dr. Kurti based on your individual case. Typically, it is recommended to wear your retainer full-time for the first few months after completing orthodontic treatment, then gradually transition to wearing it only at night for a specified period. Following instructions is crucial to maintain the results achieved by your braces or aligners.

Q: What should I do if my retainer becomes loose or feels uncomfortable?

A: If your retainer feels loose or uncomfortable, it is important to contact Kurti Ortho as soon as possible for evaluation and potential adjustment. Do not attempt to adjust or repair the retainer yourself, as this may cause further complications. It is essential to address any issues promptly to prevent the risk of the retainer not properly aligning your teeth and potentially undoing the progress made during orthodontic treatment.

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