Do braces hurt to put on?
One of the great benefits of the modern orthodontic appliance is that putting on braces is now completely painless. However, your teeth will become sore later or the next day. Any over-the-counter pain reliever you would normally use for a headache and softer foods should be sufficient during these first few days.
How long does soreness normally last?
Of course everyone’s perception is a little different but most patients report that the initial soreness lasts from a few days up to about one week. Once your braces have been on for a while the soreness from adjustments only lasts a day or two.
How often do we need to come in for appointments?
Our typical routine is to see patients every 6 to 8 weeks. Naturally, we may modify that schedule for your individual treatment plan. Some patients need to come for adjustments every few weeks, others get to take a three month break.
Do I need to be careful about what I eat?
No chewy, sticky or hard foods. Cut pizza, fruits and vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Refer to the list provided for you at the time your braces are placed.
What do I do if something breaks or becomes loose?
Don’t worry if you notice any loose bands, brackets or broken appliances.
This is not an emergency, however, you should give our office a call to schedule
a longer appointment for the repair.
What if I have a broken or poking wire?
Your braces starter kit will include a container with soft wax. Apply a small piece of this wax to the area causing the discomfort. Call us at your convenience to make an appointment. If your wire has come loose and is bothering you feel free to clip it with a nail clipper or small wire cutter before you can get in to see us.
Will braces interfere with playing sports or a musical instrument?
There may be a period of adjustment at first, however, we provide mouthguards for our athletes and lip bumpers to our musicians to protect their smiles and prevent discomfort.
How long is a permanent (lower) retainer needed?
The purpose of a permanent retainer is to give your teeth the best chance of staying in correct alignment. Adolescent patients will need the permanent retainer until we see what your wisdom teeth are going to do. Even adult patients will have their lower permanent retainer for many years.
How do I clean my removable upper or lower retainers?
Brush your retainer whenever you brush your teeth. You may soak your retainer once a week or so in a denture cleaner solution. DO NOT boil, microwave or put your retainer in the dishwasher as this will melt and distort your custom-made appliance.
Lost or Broken Retainers
You will need to make two appointments to replace your retainer. The first
appointment will be for an impression. The second will be scheduled 8-10
days later for the delivery of your new appliance.
Do we do cleanings and fillings too?
Your general dentist is the best person to see for cleanings, cavities and
other restorative dental work. He or she is an expert in providing these
important services. Dr. Kattner specializes in only orthodontics and dentofacial
orthopedics. Please continue to see your dentist every 6 months for cleanings,
fillings and any other dental work that is necessary.
Do we whiten or bleach teeth?
No. This sort of care is best handled, if needed, by your general dentist and will need to wait until your braces have been removed. Do not use any over-the-counter whitening treatments during orthodontic treatment!
What is an orthodontic emergency?
It is our office policy that if you are in pain you will be seen that day. If you have had trauma to the mouth due to a fall or accident, call our office so we can work you into our schedule to evaluate the injury. If it is after business hours, Dr. Kattner’s pager number is available on the office voicemail.
Office Hours
Our regularly scheduled office hours are Monday (9-5), Tuesday (9-5), Thursday
(8 a.m. - 5 p.m.) and Friday (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.). We also work one Thursday evening (2 p.m. - 7 p.m.) each month and one Saturday morning (8 a.m. - 11 a.m.) each month. Dr. Kattner does not have a second office location and Dr. Kattner does not have a partner so you will see him at all appointments assuring excellent continuity of care. Emergency coverage is available at all times.
As always, we are happy to assist you with any concerns. Please contact us anytime.
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