The frequency of appointments depends on each patient, and what type of appliance he or she may have. Patients with braces will require an adjustment appointment every 5-8 weeks, on average. Some types of retainers only require appointments every few months. There are certain types of appointments that may only be offered at specific times of the day, but we will do our best to work with you in scheduling.

The appointment where we put braces on your teeth does not hurt. There is no need to numb your tissue or use shots or anything uncomfortable. Our experienced team will make sure you have the best experience possible! Afterwards, you may feel tenderness or soreness when your teeth begin to move. This will be minimal discomfort and will subside within a few days or even hours of your appointment.

The objective of a retainer is to keep your child’s teeth in perfect alignment after braces are removed. Usually, when braces are first removed, your teeth will all be in perfect alignment, but your gums, bones, etc. will not have completely shifted into their new positions. The retainer holds your teeth in position until your gums, bones etc. settle in to their new positions. Also, in the case of a child, they are still growing after the braces are removed. Sometimes, your child’s mouth will grow unevenly. If so a retainer can be used to make sure the child’s teeth stay in perfect alignment as your child grows.

Small brackets are bonded to each tooth with an orthodontic adhesive. The brackets are then connected by an arch wire and held in place by small elastics (which are available in many different colors). The archwire provide a gentle pressure that slowly moves each tooth into their correct positions.

Braces can vary in a variety of matieral and apperance. For example, here at Braces Wyoming we carry braces that are either metal, or ceramic (which are clear in appearance). We also carry Invisalign, a replacement for traditional braces that consists of clear retainers that conforms to the shape of your teeth. Braces are an example of fixed appliances. There are also a number of less permanent solutions. These removable appliances consist of retainers, which are often used to hold teeth in place after braces are removed, Invisalign, as well as springs, elastics, and rubber bands which can be used in conjunction with braces.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is key. Brush regularly as directed by the dentist and floss daily. Scheduling dental visits can also help keep teeth healthy. Patients should also maintain a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks. You may want to avoid certain foods that could interfere with braces or accidentally bend the wires. These foods may include nuts, popcorn, hard candy, ice and sticky foods like chewing gum, caramel or other chewy candy.

For the most part, no. You’ll want give up extremely hard and sticky foods and consume more soft foods. You’ll have to spend a few extra minutes cleaning your braces after meals. If you play sports, using a protective mouth guard is highly recommended. If you play wind or brass instruments, you should still be able to play them with some slight adjustment.

The amount of time patients are in braces varies from person to person, depending on the problem as well as the treatment plan. An average time frame would be 18-24 months.