Frequently Asked Questions

An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don't touch when the mouth is closed. Treatment may involve braces, clear aligners, or, in some cases, surgical intervention to correct jaw alignment and achieve a functional bite.

Yes! Orthodontic treatment can effectively correct a deep bite where the upper front teeth cover the lower front teeth excessively. Options include braces or aligners to move the teeth into a more ideal position, improving both function and aesthetics.

A crossbite, where the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, can lead to uneven wear, gum disease, and TMJ disorders. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or expanders, can correct a crossbite, promoting better oral health.

Overcrowding is addressed by creating space and properly aligning the teeth. Treatment may involve dental extractions, braces, or clear aligners for optimal alignment and spacing.

Yes, spacing or gaps between teeth can be corrected with orthodontic treatments such as braces or clear aligners. These treatments bring the teeth closer together for a more uniform smile.

If a bracket comes off, save any pieces and contact your orthodontist promptly. Avoid sugary and hard foods to prevent further damage, and cover any sharp edges with orthodontic wax if causing discomfort.

Use the eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire flat against the tooth or cover it with orthodontic wax. Contact our office as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment.

Severe pain, significant injury to your mouth, or a major appliance malfunction (like a broken wire causing injury) are considered emergencies. Contact your orthodontist immediately in these situations.

Do not attempt to fix a loose band at home. Contact our office for an appointment to have it properly reattached or replaced to avoid further complications.

Minor discomfort is normal, but for severe pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers and apply orthodontic wax to any irritating areas. If discomfort persists, contact your orthodontist for advice.

Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel, while ceramic braces are made of transparent ceramic material. Ceramic braces are less visible but can be more fragile than metal braces.

You may experience some discomfort after braces are placed and following adjustments, but this is temporary. Pain relief can be managed with over-the-counter medication and oral care products.

Typically, you must visit the office every 4 to 8 weeks to adjust your braces, ensuring your treatment progresses as planned.

Braces are highly effective for correcting a wide range of dental alignment issues, including overcrowding, gaps, bite irregularities, and more, for patients of almost any age.

Yes, to protect your braces, it's advised to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods. For sports, wearing a mouthguard to protect your braces and mouth is recommended.

Brush around each bracket and wire with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily with a floss threader or orthodontic flosser to clean between teeth and along the gumline.

Yes, but it is important to wear a mouthguard specifically designed for braces and orthodontic appliances to protect your mouth during any sports activity.

Apply orthodontic wax to any protruding parts that are causing irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help alleviate discomfort.

Elastics, or rubber bands, help apply additional pressure to teeth and jaws to correct bite issues and speed up alignment. It's important to wear them as instructed for the best results.

Initially, stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing. Cut food into small pieces, chew slowly using your back teeth, and avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods to prevent damage to your braces.

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. It's an invisible, comfortable alternative to traditional braces.

For the best results, aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours a day and removed only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing your teeth.

Invisalign is suitable for most teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. A consultation can determine if it's the right choice for you.

Clean your aligners with a soft toothbrush and water. Avoid hot water as it can warp the plastic.

If you lose an aligner, contact our office immediately. We may advise you to move on to the next set or order a replacement.

Damon braces use a slide mechanism that holds the wire, allowing teeth to move more freely, quickly, and comfortably. It doesn't have the elastic bands that traditional braces typically require. This not only makes Damon braces less noticeable but also reduces the amount of pressure and friction on the teeth during treatment. The absence of elastic bands means fewer appointments for adjustments, as the braces are self-ligating and adjust automatically as your teeth move.

Yes, patients often see results faster with Damon Smile due to its efficient technology, potentially reducing treatment time.

Damon Smile offers clear brackets for those seeking a more discreet option, making them less noticeable than traditional metal braces.

By improving the bite and alignment of the teeth, Damon Smile can also positively impact facial aesthetics, offering a broader smile and enhanced profile.

Maintenance for Damon braces is similar to traditional braces, involving regular cleanings and adjustments. However, the slide mechanism may reduce the number of adjustments needed.