Headgear

Dr. Grossman utilizes headgear for a variety of reasons: growth modification, anchorage control (holding the back teeth in their original positions as an anchor to pull the front teeth back), protraction (pulling the front teeth forward), and intruding (pushing the upper back teeth upwards). He may use headgear as a first phase program before all permanent teeth have erupted for growth modification, or in conjunction with braces.

Headgear Rules:

• Wear as directed!

Elastic Wear

When indicated, elastics are an important part of the active orthodontic treatment.

Elastics provide the force needed to move your teeth in directions that we can not obtain with just the wires and braces alone. Unless instructed otherwise, they should be worn full-time (24/7) and replaced at least after brushing, but preferably 3-4 times a day as they lose their force with time. Sometimes part-time wear is worse than not wearing at all because the teeth wiggle back and forth which may cause the roots of the teeth to melt away!

Elastic Rules:

• Wear the elastics ALL the time, day and night, unless otherwise instructed.
• Carry your elastics with you all the time. If one breaks, replace it right away.
• If you run out, give us a call and we’ll make sure you get a new supply as soon as possible.
• Teeth always move when elastics are worn consistently. So, work hard at this and you will see the results sooner!

Retainers

Teeth never stop moving so it is important to prevent shifting however possible.

When you have finished orthodontic treatment, Dr. Grossman will deliver a custom-fit removable retainer as well as upper and lower bonded permanent retainers to prevent teeth from shifting. The removable retainer should be worn when sleeping. The permanent retainers generally last seven to ten years and are bonded onto the backside of the teeth. These retainers don’t necessarily have to be replaced when they wear out but many patients choose to re-bond them and have had them on twenty-plus years!

Retainer Rules:

• Wear your retainer EVERY night!
• Keep it clean! Brush it at least once a day with a soft brush and mouthwash (toothpaste tends to scratch). Avoid hot water as it will cause the retainer to distort. Feel free to soak it occasionally in Efferdent tablets or mouthwash to keep it fresh and odor free.
• Handle with care! When not wearing your retainer, be sure to keep it in the retainer case so it is not stepped on or used as a chew toy by your dog. They love them!
• If a retainer is lost or broken or if a permanent retainer breaks or becomes loose, contact us as soon as possible and we will schedule for a replacement.

*The fee for your orthodontic treatment includes one set of retainers. There will be a charge for replacement or repaired retainers.

• See your family dentist! After your appliances have been removed and your retainers placed, a check-up and cleaning are just what the doctor ordered!

General FAQ’s

What is an appropriate age to have your first orthodontic screening?

Usually we begin seeing patients around the age of 7, but any age is a good time to come in. The positive thing about getting screened early is potential issues that may affect you in the future can be prevented.

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