Helpful Hints

Solutions Download the following PDF Files for your personal reference: Elastics Information Financial Arrangements Herbst Appliance Oral Hygiene Quad and Bi-Hilex Appliance Info. Retainers Separators Treatment Reminders Patient Compliance Download a free copy of Acrobat Reader. Orthodontic Diet and Solutions An orthodontic patient who is careful can eat most foods without causing damage to braces or appliances. There are many foods, however, that may cause trouble. Ask if you are in doubt, as eating the wrong foods may cause damage and prolong treatment. Absolutely No: Hard Foods Popcorn, Chips, Whole Apples, Nuts, Corn-on-the-Cob, Crisp Tacos, Ice, Pretzels, Peanut Brittle Sticky Foods Caramel, Starbursts, Gummi Bears, Taffy, Licorice, Tootsie Rolls, Jolly Ranchers, Gum Lemons They can weaken the enamel on your teeth. Sometimes: Carrot Sticks, Apple Wedges, Hard French Bread. Please cut into small bites & chew with your back teeth. Problems and Home Solutions: If you can't handle a problem on your own, or if your problem is not listed below, call our office for instructions or an extra appointment at 683-6518. Soreness/Tenderness Rinse with warm salt water and/or take Advil or Ibuprofen. Loose Band or Bracket If the band or bracket is still attached to wire, leave it in place. If it is uncomfortable, place wax on it. If it comes out completely, wrap the band or bracket in tissue and bring it to your appointment. Please call our office and let us know that something is broken so we can reserve more time for your appointment or make an extra appointment for you to get the broken items fixed. Loose Wire Try to place the wire back in with tweezers. If that is not possible, clip the wire with fingernail clippers behind last tooth to which it is securely attached. If there is any discomfort, place wax on it. Poking Wire Try to push the wire down with a spoon or eraser. If that is not possible, place wax on it. Lost Tiewire or Elastic Notify us at your next appointment. Loose Appliance If the appliance is sticking out or poking, place wax on it and notify us at you next appointment. If the appliance is out or broken, call and make an extra appointment so that we can replace it. Headgear does not fit If the facebow is bent, call our office immediately.