Embarking on orthodontic treatment is a transformative journey towards achieving a healthy, confident smile. Throughout this process, it’s natural to encounter common challenges, but rest assured, there are effective solutions for each. At Durham Orthodontic Centre, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction, offering personalized care to address your unique needs. Whether it’s adjusting to new appliances or maintaining oral hygiene, our team is dedicated to guiding you every step of the way.
Below you will find a list of common problems that can occur during your orthodontic treatment and ways to manage them:
| Problem | Description | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Discomfort or Pain | Braces can cause soreness, especially after adjustments. | Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Rinse with warm salt water. Apply wax to brackets or wires causing irritation. |
| Irritation of Soft Tissues | Brackets or wires may rub against cheeks, lips, or tongue, causing irritation. | Apply orthodontic wax to smooth rough edges. |
| Loose Brackets or Wires | Brackets or wires can loosen or break, especially from eating sticky or hard foods. | Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods. Contact our office to book an appointment. |
| Poking Wires | Wires may shift or protrude, causing discomfort or poking. | Gently push the wire back into place using a pencil eraser or cotton swab. If unsuccessful, contact our office to book an appointment. |
| Difficulty Cleaning Teeth | Braces make thorough cleaning challenging, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and decay. | Use special orthodontic toothbrushes, floss threaders, or water flossers. Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings. |
| Bad Breath | Food particles and bacteria trapped around braces can cause bad breath. | Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash regularly. |
| Allergic Reactions | Some may have allergies to components like nickel in braces. | Inform our office of any allergies. Alternative materials, such as titanium or ceramic brackets, may be available. |
| Length of Treatment | Braces require a long-term commitment for effective results. | Follow the treatment plan diligently, wear elastics or appliances as prescribed, and attend all adjustment appointments. |
| Speech Changes | Temporary changes in speech, like lisping, may occur due to braces. | Practice speaking slowly and clearly. Speech typically normalizes over time as the mouth adjusts. |
| Breakage from Trauma | Braces may break or dislodge due to accidents or trauma. | Contact our office for evaluation and repair. Seek medical attention for significant trauma first. |
By adhering to your orthodontist’s recommendations and maintaining regular communication, you can address and prevent many common issues associated with braces.