Frequently Asked Questions Are all braces the same? With the Damon System, we dont just align teeth; we create beautiful smiles. Our treatment decisions are based on your individual smile, profile and other factors that will impact what you will look like in your 40s, 50s and beyond. The Damon System is designed to deliver results for a lifetime. How long does treatment take? Treatment with the Damon System is typically much faster than conventional braces. As an added bonus, far fewer appointments are required during treatment. When should my child be seen by an orthodontist? The American Association of Orthodontics recommendation is by the age of 7 your child should be seen by an orthodontist. Some children will need to be seen at an earlier age and usually your dentist or family physician will guide you. Early detection does not always mean early treatment. We will usually follow your child as they grow and develop and guide you on the appropriate time to begin orthodontic treatment. Will I need Permanent Teeth Removed? In most cases we can unravel even severe crowding without permanent tooth extractions. The light force wires combined with the Damon System allow so many more options. Tooth extractions in our office are based on profile while taking into consideration the long-term affects of your face as you age. Will I need a Palatal Expander? We do not need to use rapid palatal expanders with the Damon System. We can widen your arch using braces and the light force wires that are used during your orthodontic treatment. We have not used rapid palatal expanders for over 10 years in our office. We do use some light force expanders for early treatment if a young patient has a crossbite. Does it Hurt to Get Braces On? No, they are glued directly to your teeth. (No shots or drilling) Most patients experience some discomfort the first 3-5 days after their braces are put on. You can minimize discomfort by using Ibuprophen or Tylenol. Do You Tighten My Braces And Will That Hurt? No, you will have wire changes with the Damon System, We dont tighten your braces. Most patients experience some discomfort the first 3-5 days after an adjustment is made. What about my Wisdom teeth? Wisdom teeth do not normally interfere with orthodontic treatment. If they are bothering you we may recommend removal of them prior to orthodontic treatment. In many cases wisdom teeth can be removed before, during or after treatment but they usually do not interfere with orthodontic tooth movement. Do I still need to see my dentist if I have braces on? Yes, your dentist will follow you every six months for regular cleanings and check ups. Some patients are seen more often during orthodontic treatment, depending on the guidance of the dentist and/or orthodontist. Will I still be able to play sports? Yes, it is advised that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sports activity. We recommend that patients get their mouth guards from any local sports store. Guards that you can boil and bite seen to work best so they can be adjusted throughout treatment. How long do I need to wear retainers? Forever, or as long as you want straight teeth. Do I Need An Appointment If Something Happens To My Braces Or Can I Just "Stop By"? You need to call the office if you have a problem with your braces to set up an appointment. We do have same day emergency visits available and it is our goal to make sure you are comfortable. What If I Have A Problem And You Are Not Open? In case of an EXTREME EMERGENCY, such as a trauma or injury, please call our office for instructions. Remember, true Emergencies are rare. Problem Solution Wire Poke Apply wax over the brace or wire that is poking you. Call the office for an appointment to have the wire trimmed. Broken Bracket Call the office for an appointment to have it repaired If you are wearing rubber bands discontinue wearing them until your braces have been repaired. Out of Rubber bands Call the office and we will mail some to you, or you can stop by to pick them up. What if my permanent retainer comes off? Call the office to schedule an appointment to have it repaired. Continue to wear your removable retainers and make sure you save the wire if it comes out completely. Bring your retainer and/or the wire with you to your scheduled appointment. What does that cost? We charge minimal fees to repair permanent retainers; remember, we want you to have them.