Congratulations on getting your braces! You’re on the path to a great smile, and we’re here to help. We want you to achieve the very best outcome. We ask that you be on time for appointments, choose wisely what you eat, keep your teeth clean, and follow our treatment recommendations. Ask us questions and SMILE!
Keeping Appointments
Keeping and scheduling your recommended visits is essential to successful treatment. Your timely visits allows us to track your progress, adjust your appliances, and monitor your oral hygiene. Any delays in your office visits could delay your treatment, so we ask that you are careful not to miss your scheduled appointments.
Eating with Braces
Patients and their parents are always concerned about what they can and can't eat during their orthodontic treatment. Since braces are put on with the intention of coming off someday, avoiding things that are hard and crunchy will help the brackets stay in place until we're done. Don’t worry; you’ll be back to chewing gum and eating crunchy chips in no time!
You can eat fresh fruit and raw vegetables if you cut them into manageably sized pieces rather than tyring to eat them whole. By being aware that braces are temporary and choosing to prepare foods properly, you will have a great experience, good health, and a beautiful smile.
Caring For Your Braces at Home
We recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, to clear off the harmful bacteria and acids that build up around the brackets. You’ll also need to use a fluoridated toothpaste, as Missoula’s public water does not have fluoride in it. Using a power toothbrush can make this process much easier and effective. You should also floss or use a water-flosser consistently to ensure that the areas between your teeth stay healthy.
It is also vital to maintain your regular dental cleanings every six months or more frequently depending on your dentist's recommendations. When your treatment is complete, we want your investment in your smile to lead to a healthy, long-lasting smile without damage to your teeth or gums. See your dentist!
Dealing with Discomfort
As your braces start to work, your teeth will be sore until your body adjusts to the movement of your teeth. The discomfort will go away. You may notice discomfort from the wires and brackets themselves, which is where orthodontic wax comes in handy. You can cover any areas of irritation, whether it’s a bracket or a poking wire, with wax until your next appointment.
If you are experiencing discomfort, and need guidance, call our office and select option 4 from the main menu. If a bracket comes off, don’t panic, it can usually wait until your next visit but call our office just to be sure. If needed, we will get you scheduled as needed. If you have the bracket, bring it with you to your appointment.
The Granite Peak Difference
When you choose Granite Peak Orthodontics for your orthodontic treatment, you can rest assured that you are in the best possible hands. Choosing Granite Peak Orthodontics is the fastest way to get the results you want.
Dr. McDonough is also one of the most experienced providers of Invisalign® clear aligners in the state. Having treated hundreds of cases of all types and ages, Dr. McDonough can give you the best result you can get with Invisalign.
Whether you are a patient or a parent, we want you to understand each step of the process so you know exactly what to expect. We welcome parents and families at every visit and will always answer questions and help throughout your treatment. We believe well-informed patients and parents wlill help create the very best results.
To learn more about all the treatments offered at Granite Peak Orthodontics, call us at 406-542-7572 to schedule your consultation today.