Frequently Asked Questions
To help you feel informed about your orthodontic journey with Giannetti & Booms, we’ve compiled some answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Common Problems
How do I know if my child or I need orthodontic treatment?
During your complimentary consultation, Drs. Booms & Giannetti will analyze whether you need orthodontic treatment or simply monitor the jaws' growth of your child. Here are some signs you can look out for to determine whether you need treatment:
- Crowding or excessive spacing of teeth
- Top teeth too far forward from the bottom teeth
- Top teeth biting behind the bottom teeth
- Back teeth biting inside the bottom teeth
- Open bite
Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
With orthodontic advancements, removing teeth is usually unnecessary for orthodontic treatment. Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. In our office, tooth extractions are based on facial features while considering the long-term impact on your face as you grow.
Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Yes. We understand your busy schedule and are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in with their patient manager before picking up their child.
Is it normal if my teeth are wiggling during orthodontic treatment?
Yes, it is! Your teeth and gums are adapting to your orthodontic treatment. Our goal is to move your teeth into their ideal position, and with this shifting comes some minor tooth wiggling.
Life with Braces
Does orthodontic treatment hurt?
As with any treatment, it is normal to feel some discomfort throughout your orthodontic treatment. We are moving your teeth to their ideal position and sometimes you'll feel your teeth are loose, sore, or tender.
Can I still play music instruments and sports while having orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely! If you plan to play contact sports, please let us know so we can provide you with a mouthguard to protect your teeth, lips, and cheeks from injury.
Can my child return to school the day they get their braces?
Yes. There is no reason to miss school after initial placement of your braces or routine orthodontic appointments.
Are there any food restrictions?
You would want to stick to soft foods for the first few days after your braces are put on. Some suggestions are oatmeal, bananas, soup, pasta, cooked vegetables, smoothies, and scrambled eggs, just to name a few.
To minimize the likelihood of loose brackets and bent wires, please avoid these types of food while wearing braces:
- Sticky: Caramel, tootsie rolls, taffy, crunchy granola bars
- Hard: chewing on ice, biting into raw vegetables and apples, hard nuts. We encourage you to eat your fruits and vegetables. You just need to slice them!
- Crunchy: Popcorn, chips, hard tacos
- Tough: Corn on the cob, ribs, beef jerky
Emergency Care
What should I do with loose wire, bracket or band?
Sometimes a bracket can come loose, or a wire may pop out of place. Place a small amount of dental wax over the bothersome area. Next, schedule an appointment to have the wire, bracket, or band repaired.
How to apply orthodontic wax?
Tear off a small piece of wax, roll it into a ball, then apply it to the DRY wire or bracket. Squeeze the wax to ensure it doesn’t fall off, then run your tongue over the wax to feel for any looseness. The wax will not adhere well if there is too much saliva upon placement.
What should I do with mouth sores?
Wires and brackets can cause some irritation to the inside of the lips and cheeks. Applying dental wax to the problematic bracket or wire will often resolve the issue; however, if it doesn’t improve, it’s best to contact our office.
How to remove food caught between teeth?
Food caught between teeth may cause discomfort, which can be resolved with a piece of dental floss. Try tying a small knot in the middle of the floss to help remove the food. Or use an interproximal brush to dislodge food caught between teeth and braces.