I. Tooth Brushing and Flossing
A. Brush your teeth and gums thoroughly after each meal. Floss at least once a day after brushing.
- Brush your teeth in all directions.
- Use of a fluoridated toothpaste is recommended. (If toothpaste is unavailable, brush without.)
- Use your fluoride mouth rinse each night after brushing prior to bedtime.
II. Eating Habits
A. Nothing sticky, gummy, chewy or hard. Examples:
- No gum, caramels, taffy or whole bagels.
- No popcorn, nuts or ice cubes.
- Cut raw fruits and vegetables into sections.
- Cut corn off the cob.
- Don’t bite into chicken or ribs on the bone.
III. Helpful Hints for Irritation
- Use white wax to cover the appliance.
- Rinse mouth with warm salt water.
- For tooth soreness take a mild analgesic or whatever you would normally take for a headache or similar pain.
IV. Telephone
- Feel free to call if there are any questions.
- Call immediately if a wire breaks or of a band or bracket comes loose. We need to schedule a special appointment to repair.
- Please call 24 hours in advance to cancel an appointment.
V. Important – Do Not Forget!
- If you are wearing a night brace, retainer or functional appliance, always bring it with you to each appointment.
- Broken appointments will prolong treatment.
- Cooperation in wearing elastics, night brace, and all removable appliances is most important to treatment success.
- See your dentist for regular dental check-ups.