Metal Braces in Denton & Krum, TX

Q: What is the average duration of treatment with metal braces?

A: The treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of the case, typically ranging from 18 months to 3 years.

Q: How long is the recovery period after jaw surgery?

A: Braces can cause some discomfort, particularly when they are first fitted and after adjustment appointments. However, it’s important to note that the level of pain or discomfort varies from person to person. The brackets and wires can sometimes cause irritation to the inside of your mouth, especially the cheeks and lips. This irritation usually lessens as the mouth becomes accustomed to the presence of the braces. 

The pain associated with braces is usually mild and can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Applying orthodontic wax to the brackets can help alleviate irritation to the cheeks and lips.

Q: Are there any foods I should avoid?

A: Yes, there are certain foods that you should avoid while wearing braces to prevent damaging them and to ensure the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment. Here’s a list of foods typically recommended to avoid:

1. Hard Foods: Foods like nuts, hard candies, and ice can break or damage the wires and brackets of your braces.

2. Sticky Foods: Chewy candies, gum, caramel, and taffy can get stuck in braces and are difficult to remove, potentially leading to tooth decay.

3. Crunchy Foods: Snacks like popcorn, chips, and hard pretzels can also break or dislodge your braces.

4. Chewy Foods: Bagels, licorice, and tough meats can be hard to bite into and may bend or break the braces.

5. Corn on the Cob: Eating corn directly off the cob can damage your braces. It’s better to cut the corn off the cob before eating.

6. Whole Fruits and Vegetables: Hard fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots should be cut into small pieces or cooked to soften them before eating.

7. Highly Pigmented Foods and Beverages: Beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and foods with strong colors can stain teeth, particularly around the brackets.

It’s important to follow a braces-friendly diet not only to maintain the integrity of the braces but also to ensure good oral hygiene and the success of your orthodontic treatment. If you’re ever unsure about whether a certain food is safe to eat with braces, it’s a good practice to err on the side of caution or consult with your Denton orthodontist, Dr. Cramer.

Q: Are there activities I should avoid?

A: While wearing braces, most everyday activities can be continued without any issues. However, there are certain activities and habits that should be approached with caution or avoided to protect your braces and ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment. Here are some key activities to consider:

1. Contact Sports: If you’re involved in contact sports, it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your braces and your mouth. Sports like football, basketball, soccer, hockey, and martial arts can pose a risk of injury to your mouth. A mouthguard will help cushion your lips, teeth, and braces if you get hit in the face.

2. Chewing on Hard Objects: Habits such as chewing on pens, pencils, ice, or fingernails can damage your braces. These hard objects can bend wires, break brackets, and prolong orthodontic treatment.

3. Playing Wind Instruments: If you play a wind instrument, you might need some time to adjust to playing it with braces. It’s possible, but initially, it might feel uncomfortable, and you might need to use orthodontic wax to prevent discomfort.

4. Roughhousing or Play Fighting: Any activity that has a risk of a blow to the face should be avoided or approached with caution, as it can damage your braces or injure your mouth.

5. Extreme Sports: Activities that have a high risk of impact to the face, like BMX biking, skateboarding, or mountain biking, should be approached with caution. Wearing protective gear, including a mouthguard, is highly recommended.

6. Using Teeth as Tools: Avoid using your teeth to open bottles, rip tape, cut thread, or do anything that applies excessive force to your teeth. This can damage both your teeth and your braces.

For most patients, braces don’t significantly limit their daily activities. However, taking these precautions can help ensure a smoother, more efficient orthodontic treatment process.

Q: How do I care for my teeth?

A: Caring for your teeth and braces is crucial for the success of your orthodontic treatment and for maintaining good oral hygiene. Here are some essential tips for taking care of your teeth and braces:

1. Brushing: Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. With braces, it’s advisable to brush after every meal to remove food particles that can get trapped in the braces. Use a toothbrush with a small head to reach all areas of your teeth and braces easily.

2. Flossing: Flossing with braces can be challenging, but it’s vital for removing plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the wires. Use waxed floss, a floss threader, or an orthodontic flosser designed for cleaning around braces.

3. Interdental Brushing: An interdental brush can be a helpful tool for cleaning around brackets and wires. It helps remove food particles and plaque in areas that are difficult to reach with a regular toothbrush.

4. Rinsing: Using an antiseptic dental rinse can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritated gums, and decrease the risk of infections.

Q: What alternatives are available to me?

A: Many patients who are self-conscious or would prefer a less invasive route to straighter teeth often ask about an alternative to metal braces. Luckily with modern orthodontic care, there are many options! These include clear aligners like Invisalign, lingual braces and ceramic braces.