FAQ

Interceptive treatment can minimize the need for longer and more extensive orthodontic treatment in the future by providing the following results:

  • Guiding and improving jaw growth.
  • Reducing/stopping thumb-sucking habit.
  • Creating more space for teeth to erupt.
  • Steering the permanent teeth in a more favorable position.
  • Preserving the space for unerupted teeth.
  • Eliminating harmful oral habits such as tongue thrusting or thumb sucking.
  • Reducing trauma or injury to protruding front teeth.
  • Improving appearance and self-esteem.

Patients of all ages looking to improve the alignment of their teeth and enhance their smile can benefit from orthodontic treatment with braces. Well-aligned teeth can enhance the aesthetics of your smile and help improve your oral health. Correcting your bite can improve function and minimize wear on your teeth over time.

By visiting our Fremont, California Orthodontic office, Dr. Jelson Yalung can evaluate your teeth alignment and bite to advise if you need treatment or further monitoring.

Clear aligners (i.e. Invisalign) straighten your teeth without wires and brackets and are virtually invisible. We will start with a digital scan of your teeth using our digital scanner. We will carefully plan your treatment plan to achieve your desired result and have your custom aligners made. We will then give you a set of aligners to wear and change every 1-2 weeks. Along the way, we will closely monitor your progress to ensure that the minor adjustments lead to significant changes!

Proper brushing and flossing are essential in orthodontic treatment to prevent the development of permanent white marks, cavities, and gum disease. Brush after each meal and snack. Braces do NOT cause decay, but they can make some areas in your mouth harder to clean. Here is how Dr. Jelson, Fremont, California Orthodontist ‘near me’ recommends caring for your oral hygiene with braces:

  1. Use fluoride toothpaste along with a soft, rounded toothbrush.
  2. Angle your toothbrush to brush on ALL surfaces of your teeth (over and under the brackets along with the front, back, and sides of all teeth).
  3. Remember to gently brush your tongue, the roof of your mouth, and your gums.
  4. Rinse thoroughly after brushing.
  5. Floss at least once a day, especially before going to bed.
  6. Finish by using an over-the-counter fluoride mouthwash/rinse.
  7. Look to see if your braces are clean and shiny!

While in orthodontic treatment, you must continue to visit your general dentist for regular dental cleanings and checkups at least every four months. If you have previously seen a periodontist, please continue care with this specialist at least every four months unless otherwise directed by the periodontist.

Only some issues with your braces result in an appointment with your Orthodontist. Here is a list of common concerns and what you can do about them:

Loose Band or Bracket: If a band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place, and do not try to remove it yourself. If it makes you uncomfortable, place some wax on the bracket for now. If it comes out entirely, place the band or bracket in an envelope or plastic bag and bring it to our office on your next visit.

Loose Wire: Place the wire back where it belongs with a clean tweezer. If that is not possible, clip the wire with a sharp, clean fingernail clipper behind the last tooth to which the wire is securely fastened. If there is any discomfort, place wax on the area.

Poking Wire: Try to push the “poking” wire down with a spoon or a pencil eraser. If still uncomfortable, place wax on the wire.

Soreness: Any tenderness is usually temporary and can be relieved with warm salt water rinses (1 tsp. salt in 8 oz. glass of water – do not swallow) and taking Ibuprofen. For patients 12 years and older, Naproxen Sodium may be more effective in relieving discomfort. Follow the appropriate dosages as directed on the over-the-counter medicine bottle.

Headgear/Facemask not fitting: Stop wearing it for now.

Appliance not fitting: If an appliance is poking you, place wax on the area and continue to wear it, if possible. If it becomes displaced and comes out of your mouth entirely, put it in an envelope or plastic bag and bring it to our office on your next visit.

Broken Appliance: Save all appliance pieces in a plastic bag and bring them to our office on your next appointment.

Here is a list of the different parts that make up your braces:

  • Hook
  • Headgear tube
  • Archwire
  • Bracket
  • Elastic chain
  • Rubber band
  • Color ties

braces diagram

If you want a beautiful smile with the added benefit of a comfortable treatment option, and a nearly invisible appliance, then clear aligners are for you! In short, clear aligners work well to achieve the positive aesthetic result many patients seek.