Tuesday, December 15, 2020

You have Questions...We Have Answers

McClellan Orthodontics


Dr. McClellan and his team know that being told that you need braces can cause some apprehension. If you have been told by your General Dentist that you may need braces, don’t worry…we are here for you every step of the way.

 
At McClellan Orthodontics we get a lot of questions when it comes to braces. One of the most popular questions is… 
 
Do Braces Hurt? There is no reason to be anxious about getting braces. Getting braces does not hurt. While each patient will have a different experience with braces, braces do not hurt at all when they are applied to the teeth. However, most of our patients experience mild soreness the first 4 days after their braces and wires have been placed. If you do feel any discomfort associated with getting braces…an over the counter pain reliever, such as Advil or Motrin, plus a regimen of salt water rinses can be used to greatly ease the discomfort.
 
Other questions we often get asked are… 
 
Are Braces Expensive? There’s no denying that braces are costly, but because orthodontic treatment is highly personalized and based on the individual the patient, your expenses will depend on your age, the severity of your orthodontic problem, and your insurance plan. 
 
Can My Dentist Put My Braces On? Orthodontists are trained to detect and correct complex bite and jaw problems that are normally beyond the skill level of a general dentist. Dr. McClellan continued his education after completing dental school, spending thousands of hours of instruction on malocclusions, jaw joint issues, bone growth problems, and craniofacial anatomy. When it comes to braces…training is key. Only orthodontists, like Dr. McClellan, with their extensive backgrounds, can be relied on to provide the appropriate and comprehensive treatment for your orthodontic needs. 
 
How Long Do I Have to Wear My Braces?  The amount of time you will need to wear your braces greatly depends on the severity of your orthodontic problem, the health of your teeth, gums, and supporting bone, and your willingness to carefully following Dr. McClellan’s instructions throughout treatment. Most of our patients need to wear braces for about 18 to 24 months. For problems that are harder to correct, treatment may take up to three years. 
 
Still have questions about braces? Give our Kenilworth orthodontic office a call to schedule your initial consultation
 

 

Friday, December 4, 2020

Is It An Orthodontic Emergency?

So you just got home from your orthodontic adjustment appointment with Dr. McClellan and your next appointment is scheduled for six weeks from now. Your mouth is sore, you feel a wire poking your cheek, and your teeth are tender. You have an emergency and need these painful issues resolved right away!

Did you know that many things we consider an emergency are really things that are simply causing us temporary discomfort and can be resolved at home? Most orthodontic concerns like, poking wires and mouth soreness can be fixed without scheduling an emergency appointment.

3 Simple Solutions to Alleviate Pain or Discomfort

Soreness: Warm salt-water rinses are helpful in relieving soreness. You may also take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or Advil as you would for a headache or similar discomfort.

Poking Wire: Sometimes a poking wire can be safely turned down so that it no longer causes you discomfort. Try to tuck the wire out of the way with the blunt end of a toothbrush, pencil eraser, or Q-Tip. Orthodontic wax can always be used to cover any archwire that might be sticking out.

Loose Wire: Use Tweezers to re-insert the archwire that may have slipped out of the molar bracket. Place wax over it if there is any remaining discomfort.

Please Remember: Every time you brush your teeth, check to make sure you do not have any loose braces by gently trying to slide each one. If a wire or band comes loose, do not be alarmed. If you have a broken or loose appliance, please call our Kenilworth orthodontic office to determine if your breakage is urgent and requires immediate repair.