FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontic treatment will not interfere with your sport. If you are involved in contact sport then a gumshield purchased from your local sports shop can be adapted to fit around the upper teeth.
Yes, you should see your dentist as usual for your routine check-ups.
You will need to avoid sticky chewy foodstuffs during your treatment. Care needs to be taken when eating hard foods as biting into something hard without thinking will knock brackets off the teeth.
It is very important that you restrict the intake of sugary snacks also and it is advisable that you avoid fizzy drinks.
Braces are only fitted on patients with good oral hygiene. If braces are not cleaned adequately during treatment unsightly marks will be left on the teeth after the braces are removed. On the day the braces are fitted Dr Sheils will explain all necessary oral hygiene measures.
Nowadays where possible we try to avoid extracting teeth. However, in cases where there is a lot of overcrowding or teeth are very prominent the removal of some adult teeth may be necessary. If this is the case all extraction space is closed and at the end of treatment it will be impossible to tell that you have had teeth removed.
The process of fitting braces is not painful. However, for one week afterwards your teeth will be tender and sore. You may also develop some small mouth ulcers as you adapt to the braces. Normal painkillers, eg., paractemol will see you through this early period.