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Why Do Braces Need Adjustments?

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Although usually teens get braces, more and more adults are deciding to correct crooked or misaligned teeth by getting braces. If you recently got braces, you may wonder why you must return to the orthodontist for adjustments. After all, don’t braces straighten your teeth automatically? The truth is that braces need regular adjustments to ensure that they’re working effectively and that you’re on track to achieve the desired results. This article will explore why braces need adjustments and what you can expect during your appointments.

Why Adjustments?

Your teeth are not static objects. Instead, they shift and move in response to pressure. Braces apply gentle, constant pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. That’s why the orthodontist must regularly adjust the braces to ensure that the pressure is applied correctly and that your teeth are moving in the right direction.

Additionally, as your teeth move, the wires and brackets of the braces can loosen or be damaged. Adjustments allow your orthodontist to tighten or replace these components, ensuring your braces function correctly.

What Happens During an Adjustment Appointment?

During an adjustment appointment, your orthodontist will examine your braces and teeth to determine what changes must be made. In addition, they may take x-rays or other images to see how your teeth are moving.

Once they clearly understand your progress, your orthodontist will make the necessary adjustments to your braces. This may involve tightening or loosening wires, replacing brackets, or making other changes to the appliance.

While adjustments can be uncomfortable, the discomfort typically lasts only a short time. Your orthodontist will work quickly to make the necessary changes and then check to make sure everything is functioning correctly before you leave.

How Often Do You Need Adjustments?

The frequency of your adjustment appointments will depend on your treatment plan. However, most patients visit their orthodontist for adjustments every 4-8 weeks. However, it’s important to note that every case is unique, and your orthodontist will determine the best schedule for your needs. In addition, they will determine the frequency of your appointments based on how quickly your teeth are moving and how much correction is needed.

What Happens If You Don’t Get Adjustments?

If you don’t get regular adjustments for your braces, your treatment may take longer to complete or may not be as effective as it could be. Additionally, if your braces become damaged or broken and you don’t get them fixed, it could lead to other dental problems.

It’s important to follow your orthodontist’s recommended treatment plan and attend all of your scheduled appointments to ensure the best possible outcome for your orthodontic treatment.

Blue Ridge Orthodontics

Do you want to correct your crooked teeth? Blue Ridge Orthodontics can help. Our team will evaluate your teeth and develop a correction plan to improve your smile. Contact our office today at 828-585-6045 to make an appointment.

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When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

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If left untreated, orthodontic issues can progress, so they should be addressed as soon as possible. By the age of seven, children have developed enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to determine if there will be an issue with their teeth or alignment. However, if an issue is evaluated by the age of seven, a child can be seen to ensure their jaw and teeth are correctly aligned. By bringing your child in for an orthodontic evaluation, you may be able to address any orthodontic uncertainty before it becomes a more significant issue. 

What should I expect from my child’s first orthodontic evaluation?

When you and your child arrive at our orthodontic office, you will need to fill out some new patient paperwork, provide your insurance information, and provide your child’s medical and dental history so that we can treat your child with the most personalized care. The orthodontist will look at your child’s jaws and mouth to note the alignment, position, and spacing. 

 

The orthodontist will also need to get a good look below the surface of the gums. The orthodontist will take x-rays of your child’s mouth to do this. While your child may have had x-rays at their dentist’s office, the x-rays at the orthodontist’s office will examine the teeth and the jaws to help determine what action needs to be taken, if any. 

 

If treatment is deemed necessary, the orthodontist may take impressions of the child’s bite. These impressions help the orthodontist develop a treatment plan and support the orthodontist in customizing the treatment options for the child’s mouth.

 

After the orthodontist has completed the examination, they will review their findings with you and share their thoughts on what treatment options are available. 

Questions your child’s first orthodontist examination should answer:

  • Does my child have any orthodontic issues?
  • Will my child need orthodontic treatment?
  • What treatment options does my child have?
  • How long would orthodontic treatment take?

If you have any questions about how to be prepared for your child’s first appointment, call us at 828.585.6045. Fill out our free consultation form to set up your child’s first examination

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Invisalign for Teens

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Many people associate Invisalign Treatment with an adult age group because of its discreet nature. Contrary to popular belief, Invisalign has become increasingly popular among all ages. Offering fewer appointments, a sleek and concealed design, and minimal food restrictions, it has become attractive for teens with hectic schedules and a desire for an unnoticeable treatment option.

3 Reasons Invisalign is Becoming More Popular Among Teens

Comfort and Convenience

Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces. With its removable technology, teens can take them out as needed. Playing sports or eating their favorite foods? No problem, just have your teen remove the aligners when they need to! With no metal and wires in their mouth, there is also a reduced chance of needing to come in for orthodontic emergencies. 

Customized Treatment

Your teen’s Invisalign treatment is tailored specifically for them. Their treatment starts with an assessment and the advanced technology of the iTero Scanner. With the iTero Scanner, the guesswork is taken out of their treatment plan. This tool, utilized by our board-certified orthodontists, is used to map out the path to your teen’s new smile. The iTero scanner allows doctors to simulate the course of the patient’s treatment through a 3D simulator. Our doctors precisely predict and plan for even the tiniest shift in your teen’s teeth.

Lasting Results

Once your teen’s smile is transformed, they can continue to maintain their new smile in a discreet fashion. Maintaining their smile is one of the most critical aspects of the whole process. The great news is the maintenance required to ensure their smile lasts a lifetime is just as comfortable, clear, and discreet as their Invisalign treatment!

Invisalign for Teens at Blue Ridge Orthodontics

You may still have some questions regarding whether Invisalign is the right choice for your teen. Luckily, Blue Ridge Orthodontics is among the top 1% of providers in North America. BRO has treated many patients in Western NC and offers a free consultation to help you understand the details of treatment options.

Schedule a free consultation to see if Invisalign is the right option for your teen, or give us a call!

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Tips for Cleaning Your Retainers

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With the accumulation of tartar, plaque, and other bacteria, it is important to clean your retainer just as you clean your teeth. If you don’t consistently clean your retainer, which sits against your teeth daily, the presence of germs in your mouth can lead to dental issues. There are several different types of retainers, which means there are various ways to clean them. The different types of retainers we offer at BRO include:

  • Fixed Retainers: These are bonded to the back of your teeth with metal wire to prevent any shifting. These retainers are non-removable and need special care. 
  • Hawley Retainers: This is a removable type of retainer made of an acrylic plate and metal wiring. It is molded to your mouth and helps retain your smile as long as it is worn and cared for properly.
  • Clear Plastic Retainers/ Aligners: This type of retainer is transparent, thin plastic to give you an almost unnoticeable retainer option. However, if not cared for properly, these retainers can become discolored and lead to foul odor. 

How to Clean Your Retainers

Clear Plastic & Hawley Retainers

  1. Remove the retainer from your mouth and start the cleaning process before the germs or debris harden.
  2. At night, clear the debris from your retainer with a soft toothbrush and warm water.
  3. Mix hydrogen peroxide with warm water and gently scrub the retainers to clean them deeply. Be sure not to scrub vigorously, as this could scratch the retainer.
  4. If necessary, ask your orthodontist about the option of soaking your retainers in a retainer cleaning solution. If they recommend doing so, follow the packing instructions.

Fixed Retainers

  1. Using a floss threader and a 6-inch piece of floss, begin by threading the floss between your front two lower teeth.
  2. By holding one end of the floss with the threader and the other end with your fingers, slip the floss under your retainer wire.
  3. Gently move the floss up and down, sliding between the teeth, and carefully under the gum line. Repeat this process through each tooth. 
  4. To ensure cleanliness, never miss a regularly scheduled cleaning with your dentist, and be sure to brush your teeth at least twice daily.

Extra Tips for Cleaning Your Retainers:

    • Replace your retainers as needed. They are subject to normal wear and tear. Consult with your orthodontist about the condition of your retainers. 
    • Just as your retainers can gather bacteria, so do retainer cases. Keep these clean too. You can also gently scrub these with dish soap and warm water to deter bacterial growth.
    • Don’t warp your retainers. An extended soak can warp your retainers. Only soak the retainers for the recommended time. Also, do not leave your retainers in high heat. This includes leaving them in a hot car, boiling water, microwaves, washer, and dryers, etc. 

Cleaning Your Retainers In Review

Regularly cleaning your retainers is essential to maintaining the health and cleanliness of your mouth and teeth. Without following proper routine cleaning steps, the build-up of bacteria and debris on your retainers can encourage harmful bacteria in your mouth and compromise your retainer’s structure. For more specific care and instructions, speak with your orthodontist.

To learn more about braces and retainer care, schedule a call or request a consultation.

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Expectations for Getting Your Braces Removed

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Congratulations, you made it! Your teeth are finally going to be free of braces. As exciting as this time is, there are still a couple of important things to remember in order to set the right expectations for getting your braces removed. 

Braces Removal Process

After Braces Keep Your Expectations Realistic

As you have likely been waiting for this moment for a long time, it is very important to stay realistic. Of course, when you have braces, teeth shift in between appointments. It is possible that even though you set the appointment to have your braces removed, your teeth could still need a little bit more time to adjust. The worst thing would be if you got your braces removed and your teeth weren’t ready. You could have to get braces again in the future or maybe even not keep that straight smile you worked so hard for! So, don’t be discouraged if you go in and the doctor says you need a little more time. 

Budget at Least an Hour for Your Appointment

Removing braces is not a quick process. You should budget for approximately an hour long appointment. During this appointment, your orthodontist will use a special device to loosen each bracket on your teeth. After your orthodontist pops off your brackets, wires, and molar bands, your teeth will need to be thoroughly cleaned. Then, you will be taken to get x-rays and potentially to have a bite impression done to make sure your braces have done their job. To prevent your teeth from shifting, your orthodontist will fit you for a retainer and instruct you of proper use. Needless to say, this process can take some time!

Expect new sensations

Throughout the removal process, you will likely experience some new feelings that you have never experienced before. With the squeezing of brackets there could be some pressure, popping, or cracking. After your brackets are removed the orthodontist will need to remove the dental glue or cement from your teeth. This will be a scraping sensation. While these sensations may be slightly uncomfortable, they are completely normal. Generally the process of having your braces removed is relatively painless and will all be worth it once you get to see your wonderful, braces-free smile!

Time to Celebrate (And Maintain)

Once your braces are off, you will need to make sure you take the proper steps of cleaning your teeth and wearing your retainer to maintain your gorgeous smile. You will want to allow some time to rest and take it easy as your teeth may be a little sore. Be sure to choose what you eat carefully considering your teeth may be a bit sensitive. Of course, don’t forget to celebrate your hard-earned smile!

Now, how do you whiten your teeth after getting your braces removed?

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How do I Floss with Braces?

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Keeping your braces clean and free from debris is extremely important to the integrity and health of your smile. 

With all of the hardware that comes with braces (brackets, wires, etc.), there are many opportunities for food to hide and get stuck. While of course, you should continue brushing your teeth, there are many things that a toothbrush can leave behind. Flossing in between your teeth and braces brackets to remove the debris that gets stuck in hard-to-reach areas and helps prevent cavities, staining, along tooth decay and gum disease. 

How to Floss Using a Threader

Expect flossing with a threader to take 10-15 minutes.

Step 1: Cut a 15 to 18-inch piece of waxed floss

Step 2: Fit the piece of floss through the threader loop about 4-inches

Step 3: For easy use, you can tie the floss to the threader loop to keep the floss from slipping

Step 4: With the threader pointing down away from the gums, push the threader under the braces wire

Step 5: Gently floss in between teeth and into the gum area

Step 6: Repeat the process through each tooth

 

How to Floss with Using Interdental Brush

Expect flossing with an interdental brush to take approximately 5-10 minutes.

Step 1: While in front of a mirror, position the brush in your hand just like you hold a pencil

Step 2: Gently slide the brush between each tooth approximately 12-15 times

Step 3: Slide the brush along each tooth surface 2-3 times 

Step 4: Wash your brush in cold running water and store it in a clean place

 

Flossing with a Water Flosser

Expect flossing with a water flosser to take approximately 2 minutes.

Step 1: Fill the water reservoir with warm water

Step 2: Lean over the sink and place the water flosser in your mouth

Step 3: If there are different settings, start your water flosser on the lowest setting

Step 4: Aim the tip of the water flosser at the gum line and let water flow in between your teeth

Step 5: Once finished, be sure to turn off the water flosser before removing it from your mouth

Note: Be sure to keep your lips closed enough to prevent water from splashing out while using the device

 

You can also reduce the food that gets stuck in your braces by knowing the right foods to eat or avoid.

Blue Ridge Orthodontics is committed to helping you achieve a gorgeous lifelong smile and you can help by making flossing part of your regular routine! If you have further questions about how to floss with braces, our team is here to help. 

If you are local to western NC and are considering orthodontic treatment, Blue Ridge Orthodontics offers free consultations. 

You can also contact us at 828.585.6045 . 

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Long-term Benefits of Straight Teeth

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If you don’t like your smile, you’re not alone: plenty of people don’t like their smile. In fact, 57 percent of Americans cover their mouths while laughing because they’re insecure about how their teeth look. You might think straightening your teeth is a complex process that costs a lot of money, but we make it easy and cost-effective.

If you’ve had crooked teeth, an underbite, or an overbite, your whole life, you might still think it’s fine to live that way. After all, the saying is, “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.” But having straight teeth will improve your quality of life in the future, and we want what’s best for you.

Not having your teeth aligned is detrimental, and you’re probably unaware of the benefits of aligned teeth. You’ll learn why you should straighten your teeth here!

Come into Blue Ridge Orthodontics if you’re considering braces or other means of straightening your teeth. Request an appointment here!

Straight Teeth are Easy to Clean

Everyone brushes their teeth twice a day and flosses to prevent plaque build-up. But it takes more work for people with crooked teeth, underbites, or overbites. Crooked teeth can create pockets of hard-to-reach places; if they’re hard to reach, they’ll be hard to brush.

Unbrushed areas lead to plaque build-up. After a certain amount of time, plaque hardens and becomes tartar which is harder to clean and discolors the teeth. Plaque can also cause cavities that permanently damage the tooth by developing holes. An untreated cavity leads to a broken tooth.

Plaque can also cause gum disease, or gingivitis, which leads to tooth loss if untreated. You get the point. Plaque is terrible, and straight teeth allow you to hit all necessary nooks and crannies easily! Imagine not having to concentrate on brushing crooked teeth. Straight teeth help you give all teeth equal care.

Straight Teeth Help with Life Longevity

Straight teeth can improve your quality of life by making eating easier and decreasing the chances of diseases. A study in 2016 has shown that infected teeth are connected to coronary disease. Coronary disease causes chest pain, lightheadedness, and more dangerous symptoms. If untreated, you could have a heart attack or develop an arrhythmia.

Eating Will Be More Comfortable with Straight Teeth

Eating can be hard when your teeth are out of alignment due to an underbite or overbite. The average person uses 70 lbs per square inch of bite force when chewing food. You know it isn’t comfortable if you’ve ever bit down on your teeth while trying to eat food. In fact, it probably hurt so bad that it ruined your appetite. One of the benefits of straight teeth is you don’t even have to worry about biting another tooth.

Straight Teeth Improve Confidence

Nothing is more welcoming than a smile, but 7 in 10 people feel insecure about their smile. Instead of feeling insecure about it, book an appointment. Our doctors and staff have resurrected confidence by straightening teeth with braces for years. We help adults straighten their teeth, and we help teens get braces or Invisalign as well. Blue Ridge Orthodontics office has everything you need for a beautiful smile, from whitening to oral surgery!

Blue Ridge Orthodontics

We are committed to helping you achieve a gorgeous lifelong smile with many options! If you have further questions about other benefits of straightened teeth, our team is here to help.

If you are local to western NC and are considering orthodontic treatment, Blue Ridge Orthodontics offers free consultations. Contact us at 828-537-5363.

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BRO’s Top 20 Local Businesses

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Being a local business in the western, NC region, we know just how important it is to support local. Western NC is full of unique culture and experiences which are reflected in our local shops. We spoke with our staff and put together a list of our favorite local businesses across the Asheville, Hendersonville, and Brevard area. Check out our top 20 favorite businesses in Western, NC (in no particular order)!

 

1. Gift Baskets by Melissa

This locally owned, small business takes giving gifts to a whole new level. The thoughtfulness and care they add to the creation and delivery of their gifts add a special touch. Whether you’re looking for an excellent gift for a friend or an item that perfectly celebrates an occasion, Gift Baskets by Melissa can help!

 

  1. Short Street Cakes

Short Street Cakes is a West Asheville favorite! This family-owned cake shop bakes its cakes from scratch using all-natural ingredients. Olga Jimenez, the shop’s owner, made her bakery owning dreams come true and her passion for baking shows through in her work. Visit Short Street Cakes for the tastiest treats!

 

  1. Mountain Juicery

Since 2014, Mountain Juicery has been “slinging smoothies” and pressing juice. This juicery is extra special because all of their goodies are vegan-friendly. Their passion for living healthy lifestyle transfers into their tasty menu options. Several of our own staff members are frequent visitors to this local favorite!

 

  1. Appalachian Coffee Company

Appalachian Coffee Company serves its neighbors with a cup of coffee that goes beyond the purpose of simply helping you start your day. They thrive on making this part of your daily routine extra special. With their Fair Trade Certification and USDA Certified Organic coffee, they are very conscious about the impact their business has on the community and creation.

 

  1. Butter & Blooms

Pop up pie counter? Yes, please! Butter and Blooms unique business model allows them to travel around Brevard and deliver their yummy baked goods and fresh flowers. Their cakes are not only unbelievably yummy but also exquisitely decorated! We even use Butter & Blooms to celebrate some of our own special occasions. 

 

  1. Independent Bean Roasters

Opening in the summer of 2017, Independent Bean Roasters claimed its spot as Hendersonville’s First Coffee Roaster. Their coffee is as rich as the history of their Brick and Mortar tasting room and roasting operation. Independent Bean Roasters explores the world of coffee beans and sources and roasts them with the highest quality in mind. 

 

  1. Poppy’s Hand-Crafted Popcorn

Poppy’s Hand-Crafted Popcorn believes in serving its customers with only the best ingredients. They study and test their recipes with the utmost care and even have options for individuals with restrictive diets! Each of their savory, sweet, and premium popcorn flavors are served to their customers with care and kindness. 

 

  1. Sycamore Cycles

As the go-to bike shop in Downtown Brevard, Sycamore Cycles has everything any cyclist adventure would require. With their knowledgeable staff and extensive inventory, they can help you make the best bike choice for your needs and even adjust it to the perfect fit. If you need anything for your next adventure, Sycamore Cycles has gear for every biking niche!

 

  1. Eno

Did you know that ENO (Eagles Nest Outfitters) is based in Asheville, NC? Their hammocks have made a significant impact on hammock culture. However, their mission goes far beyond their outdoor gear. Eno focuses on protecting the natural environment and embracing sustainability through sourcing high-quality, responsibly made materials and repurposing when possible! With their relationship to nature, they feel the importance of protecting and preserving our outdoor community. 

 

  1. Asheville Adventure Company

Ready for an exciting adventure around Asheville? Asheville Adventure Company offers short, exclusive trips by creating unique activities that can’t just be found through a web search. Their experiences range from e-Bike tours, Whitewater rafting, to Party Bus Brewery Crawls, and more. Their Asheville adventures are carefully curated by locals and made accessible to ensure their guests leave with a meaningful experience. 

 

  1. Amplified Media

If you need a brand boost with beautiful videography, photography, engaging your audience during virtual events, and even 3D tours, Amplified Media has you covered! Amplified media has paired with many local businesses across a diverse portfolio of brands. By addressing the question “How will we best tell your story?” Amplified Media is able to perfectly portray your ideal brand message!

 

  1. Hickory Nut Gap Meats

Hickory Nut Gap Farms began its journey in 1916 and have been “building the community through agriculture” ever since! They raise 100% Grass-fed Beef, Pasture-Raised Pork, and Pasture-Raised Chicken using a special type of farming that gives back to the Earth. To learn more about their processes visit the Hickory Nut Gap website.

 

  1. Choy’s Flowers

The perfect flower arrangements do exist! Choy’s Flowers, located in Hendersonville are put together by an award winning and professionally trained design team. From beautiful every day arrangements to floral décor for special occasions, Choy’s Flowers can help you design stunning florals based on your aesthetic and budget preferences. 

 

  1. Foot RX

Foot RX, a walking and running shoe shop based out of Asheville provides shoes to athletes with all abilities. With foot ailments that can deter people from doing their favorite activities, Foot RX helps each client assess their individual needs to make walking and running more comfortable. They even staff 2 pedorthists to provide their clients with the most custom and professional service. 

 

  1. Daddy D’s Suber Soul Food

Daddy D’s Suber Soul Food has the yummiest of the country cooking staples on their menu. From the fried chicken to the candied yams, you are sure to find something on the menu that is good for your soul. The reviews online rave of country cooking “just like grandma’s” and of a friendly staff. Our own staff even rave about the food here too!

 

  1. Blue Ridge Hiking Company

Charged with the mission of making the wilderness accessible and enjoyable for everyone, Blue Ridge Hiking Company provides unique guided hikes for hikers of all ability levels. Founder Jennifer Davis, started Blue Ridge Hiking Company from her passion for getting people outdoors. They now offer many trip options from Day Hikes, Overnights, to Workshops on many different hiking topics!

 

  1. WNC Roofing

WNC Roofing is a Western NC and Upstate SC commercial roofing company that is local, experienced, and committed to excellence. They attribute their success in roofing to the contributions of quality workmanship, safety, and care to the hard work from their employees. They pride themselves on their customer-centric values and professionalism when working with their clients.

 

  1. Sensibilities Day Spa 

As an establishment dedicated to relaxation and wellness, Sensibilities Day Spa provides a wide variety of treatments for their clients. With their experienced staff and their commitment to health and wellness, they are able to customize treatments to each client’s needs. All of the products they use in their treatments are environmentally friendly and free of harmful chemicals.

 

  1. Abeja’s House Café

Abeja’s House Cafe in Asheville combines healthy eating and a Latin roots style of food. Customers can join them for a delicious breakfast or lunch and try a blend of recipes from different cultures with healthy ingredients. The cute story behind the name of their restaurant adds even more character to this tasty local café. 

 

  1. Honey and Salt

*Unfortunely this location has permanently closed. However, they now own a restaurant in Brevard called “Morning Social“

In 2017, this lovely local restaurant arrived in Flatrock, NC. Their bakehouse offers farm-to-table breakfast and lunch options. Honey and Salt leads with an “Eat Well. Be Well.” slogan which is present in the ingredients of their menu. They even offer gluten free and vegetarian friendly options!

 

Help us continue the success and longevity of our favorite local western, NC businesses by shopping local!

If you are looking for a local orthodontist, we are happy to be your local go-to for orthodontic services. Give us a call at 828.585.6045 to set up a free consultation.

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5 Orthodontic Emergencies

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How to handle orthodontic emergencies

While only a minimal percentage of orthodontic emergencies truly require immediate attention by an orthodontist, most situations can be treated at home. If you experience discomfort or pain with your orthodontic treatment, we strongly recommend reaching out to us as soon as possible to repair the issue. In the meantime, here are a few orthodontic emergencies that can be temporarily treated at home:

When my metal wire rings (ligs) or rubber bands (colors) come off, what do I do?

The tiny wires and small rubber bands on your braces hold the wire to your brackets. If one of these rubber bands came off, you can reattach it using sterile tweezers. You can also use sterile tweezers to remove a loose wire. If the wire is not loose but is sticking into the lip, you can bend it back down with a q-tip, or the end of a pen.

Make sure to communicate these issues with your orthodontist because if one ligature pops off, it is likely that others could follow as well.

What do I do about mouth sores?

Mouth sores and ulcers can be extremely uncomfortable, and some individuals are more susceptible to them than others. These mouth sores are not caused by braces but can be irritated by them. These sores can occur on the tongue, lips, or cheeks. To alleviate the discomfort, apply a small amount of topical anesthetic to the sores using a cotton swab. You can also use warm salt water to rinse a couple of times a day.

How do I relieve lip and cheek irritation from braces?

The easiest way to relieve irritation is by using a small piece of wax to cover the irritating metal. To do so, pinch off a piece of wax the size of a pea, flatten the wax, and completely cover the irritating metal with it. The metal can sometimes irritate you while you are eating; if you use the nonmedicinal wax while you’re eating and accidentally ingest it, don’t panic, it is harmless!

How do I deal with a protruding braces wire?

Sometimes the end of your wires can be displaced. This can lead to irritation of your cheeks and gums. If you have a protruding wire, using a Q-tip to press the wire down flat against the teeth. If this does not relieve it, use wax to cover the wire to prevent further irritation. In an extremely irritating case, and you cannot see an orthodontist, you may clip with a very sharp pair of wire clippers. This should be a very last resort, as clipping the wire in your mouth could cause you to swallow the sharp metal piece.

Make sure to consult with your orthodontist before doing so. Please give the office a call if the irritation continues so we can get you in ASAP. If you have made yourself comfortable, give us a call and we can get you in in a few days to make sure everything is still fully engaged. 

How do I fix loose braces brackets?

Brackets are fixed to the teeth using a special adhesive. These can be knocked off by eating hard, sticky, chewy foods or if you are struck in the mouth. It is important to speak with your orthodontist as soon as possible to determine the best next steps to take. If you cannot go into the office and your bracket is rotated or sticking out, you can temporarily fix it.

To put the bracket back in place, use sterile tweezers to move the bracket across the wire until it is situated between two teeth. Rotate the bracket into position and move it to the center of the tooth.  If it starts to rub, place wax over the bracket. Take extra care to protect from swallowing any of the metal pieces. If you have an upcoming appointment, give us a call and let us know that a bracket is off so we can have what we need ready to repair it!

 

Experiencing orthodontic emergencies? Always be sure to contact your orthodontist first. If you are a BRO patient, please call 828.585.6045 to discuss what the next steps should be. We are happy to help!

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Can I Play Sports While Wearing Braces?

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A common concern for individuals getting braces is whether there will be any restrictions while playing sports. While mouth injuries are possible for athletes with braces, there are several ways to prevent them and many treatment options that may even require fewer precautions. Life with braces shouldn’t keep you from playing your favorite sports. 

Can I Play Sports with Braces?

The short answer is yes; you can play sports and wear braces simultaneously. However, there is an increased risk of mouth injury with the possibility of getting hit in the face with a ball, colliding with other players, etc. While these injuries are typically not life-threatening, they can be extremely painful and costly to fix. A quick way to reduce your chances of mouth injury is to wear a mouthguard while you play sports. 

Should I wear a mouthguard when I play sports?

When playing sports, you should wear a mouthguard to protect your mouth from injury. The key to getting the most protection is wearing the correct mouthguard. An orthodontic mouthguard can reduce the risk of injury, even more so than a standard mouthguard. Orthodontic mouthguards are made with slightly more width, fit snugly, and cover the entirety of your braces, gums, and teeth. 

Are there more sports-friendly orthodontic treatments?

Traditional braces may not be suitable for you, and that’s okay! Luckily, many orthodontic options are available that may be a better fit for your lifestyle. Here are a couple of options:

  • Invisalign – Clear retainers must be worn 20-22 hours per day. These are removable as needed. No metal, wires, or brackets. 
  • Impressions – BRO’s home-managed, clear retainers must be worn 20-22 hours per day but are removable at the patient’s need. 
  • Lingual Braces – Custom-made metal braces are fashioned behind your teeth, so the front of your smile is free from wires and brackets. 

Preparing to play sports while wearing braces

Prepare for your upcoming sports season by visiting your local western NC orthodontist, Blue Ridge Orthodontics. Our doctors will help you determine the best treatment for your lifestyle and manage your treatment while you play sports. Be sure to consult with your doctor about protecting your teeth during your practices and matches. Don’t let a mouth injury dismantle your orthodontic treatment. Contact us to set up a free consultation.

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