What holds the braces on?
Generally, the brackets are attached directly to your teeth using a special glue. The glue is completely edible and will not hurt you. • Should I do anything special during my first week in braces? Your mouth will hurt for your first week in braces. You should be careful about what you eat. You need to only eat softer foods and to be very careful with your mouth. spokesmanManufacturers are working to find ways to reduce the pain during your first week in braces but we have not found anything yet. However, try to remember that the pain will be gone in a few days. • Is there any chance that the sharp ends of the braces will hurt the insides of my cheeks. professor Hatt Hmm. This is a hard question. In the beginning part of orthodontic treatment, your teeth will move a lot. Sometimes the end of the wire will stick out past the end of the tube, and create a sharp edge.
Generally, the brackets are bonded directly to your child’s teeth using a special FDA registered adhesive. • My son/daughter does not want to get braces because they are afraid that the braces will prevent them from participating in sports. Any suggestions? Years ago people who wore braces were advised to avoid sports. However, in 1981 people started using orthodontic mouthguards. The mouthguards have allowed patients to continue to participate in sports while they have braces. Therefore, there is nothing for your child to fear. • My child plays the trumpet. Will his ability to play be affected by orthodontic treatment? Be sure to mention your child’s musical abilities to the orthodontist. The orthodontist will install something called “lip protector” which will make it possible for your child to still play musical instruments. We have had reports of entire bands having orthodontia with no problems. • Can my child still chew gum with braces? Gum is usually not recommended. The gum can
