Pre/Post Op Instructions

1. Diet Guidelines for Orthodontic Treatment

Congratulations on beginning your orthodontic journey with Align Orthodontics! Now, proper care and attention to your diet are essential for ensuring the success of your orthodontic treatment. The right foods can make your experience more comfortable and effective, while certain foods can hinder progress and damage your braces. Thus, we have provided you with the following comprehensive list of foods to enjoy and avoid, along with essential tips for maintaining your oral health during treatment.

Foods to Eat

Opt for Soft Foods to Keep Your Braces in Top Shape

• Yogurt: Smooth and easy to eat, helping you avoid discomfort.
• Eggs: Soft-cooked eggs, such as scrambled or poached, are gentle on your braces.
• Bananas: Soft and nutritious, ideal for a quick snack.
• Soft fruits: Peaches, pears, and berries that are ripe and tender.
• Pudding: A smooth, soft treat that doesn’t interfere with your braces.
• Soup: Choose broth-based or creamy soups that are not too hot to avoid irritation.
• Rice: Soft and easy to chew, perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Applesauce: A soft, easy-to-digest option.
• Oatmeal: Soft and comforting, making it an excellent breakfast choice.
• Baked or mashed potatoes: Soft and easy to chew, great for any meal.
• Spaghetti: Cooked until tender; avoid hard or sticky sauces.
• Chicken, fish, or meat: Ensure they are cut into small, bite-sized pieces for easy chewing.
• Vegetables: Cooked or steamed and cut into small pieces to avoid damaging your braces.

Foods to Avoid

Steer Clear of These Foods to Prevent Damage and Ensure Effective Treatment

• Ice: Chewing on ice can put excessive pressure on your brackets, leading to looseness.
• Hard and sticky foods: Avoid caramel candies, taffy, and bubblegum as they can pull off wires and brackets.
• Pizza crust and hard pretzels: These can damage bands and brackets due to their hardness.
• Popcorn: Kernels and shells can become trapped between bands and gums, causing irritation and inflammation.
• Sugary snacks and drinks: Excess sugar from candies and sugary beverages can get trapped in your braces, leading to cavities.
• Coffee, tea, and soda: These beverages can stain your teeth and braces, affecting the appearance of your smile.

Conclusion

Adhering to these dietary guidelines will help you get the most out of your orthodontic treatment with Align Orthodontics. By choosing soft foods and avoiding those that can damage your braces or contribute to dental issues, you can help ensure a smoother and more effective treatment process. Remember to brush and floss thoroughly after every meal to maintain optimal oral health. If you have any questions or need more guidance, please contact our office. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to achieving your best smile!

2. Retainers – Pre-and Post-Care Instructions

Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment with Align Orthodontics! Your retainer is a crucial part of maintaining the beautiful, straight smile you've worked so hard to achieve. Thus, proper use and care of your retainers are essential for ensuring your teeth stay in their new positions. This guide will help you understand how to use, care for, and maintain your retainer effectively.

Pre-Care Instructions

Understand the importance: Wearing your retainer as prescribed by your orthodontist is vital for stabilizing your teeth and preventing them from shifting back to their original positions. Follow the recommended wearing schedule to ensure long-term success.

Initial fit: When you first receive your retainer, your orthodontist will check its fit. If you experience any discomfort or issues, contact our office promptly to have any necessary adjustments done.

Retainer Use Instructions

Wearing schedule: Adhere to the wearing schedule provided by your orthodontist. Typically, retainers are worn full-time for the first few months, followed by part-time wear (e.g., nights only) for an extended period.

Inserting and Removing:

• Inserting: Gently place the retainer onto your teeth, ensuring it fits snugly. Use your fingers to press it into place, starting from the back and working forward.
• Removing: To remove, gently lift the retainer from the back and work forward. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the retainer.

Avoid eating and drinking with retainers: Remove your retainer before eating or drinking anything other than water. Food and beverages can damage the retainer or cause it to become discolored.

Handling: Always handle your retainer with clean hands. Avoid wrapping it in tissues or napkins, as it can easily be misplaced or accidentally thrown away.

Care and Maintenance Instructions

Cleaning:

• Daily: Rinse your retainer with lukewarm water every morning. Use a soft toothbrush (not the one you use for your teeth) and mild soap to gently clean the retainer. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and damage the retainer.
• Weekly: Soak your retainer in a denture cleaner or a solution specifically designed for retainers, following the manufacturer's instructions. This helps to remove any buildup and keep it fresh.

Storage: Always store your retainer in its designated case when not in use. This protects it from damage and contamination. Keep the case clean by rinsing it with water regularly.

Avoid heat and chemicals: Do not expose your retainer to high temperatures, such as hot water or direct sunlight, as this can warp or damage it. Similarly, avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach to clean the retainer.

Regular Checkups: Bring your retainer to your regular orthodontic appointments for evaluation. If you notice any cracks, loose parts, or if it doesn't fit properly, contact our office immediately for an adjustment or replacement.

Conclusion

Maintaining the integrity of your smile requires consistent care and attention to your retainer. By following these instructions, you can ensure your retainer stays in excellent condition and continues to support the alignment of your teeth. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer or need further assistance, please contact Align Orthodontics. We are here to support you in achieving and preserving your perfect smile.

Thank you for entrusting Align Orthodontics with your orthodontic care. We wish you continued success with your treatment!

3. Brushing and Flossing Care Instructions

Whether you’re just starting your orthodontic journey or are well on your way, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. With braces, effective brushing and flossing are essential to keep your teeth and gums healthy and to ensure the best results from your treatment. This guide will walk you through the proper techniques for brushing and flossing with braces.

Brushing With Braces

Proper brushing is key to keeping your braces and teeth clean. Follow these steps for effective brushing:

Positioning Your Brush

• Hold your toothbrush at a 90-degree angle to the surface of your teeth.
• Brush back and forth along the brackets, making sure to cover all surfaces.

Brushing the Top of Brackets

• Angle your brush 45 degrees away from the gums.
• Gently brush along the top of the brackets to remove plaque and food particles.

Cleaning Under the Wire

• Tilt your brush 45 degrees toward the gums.
• Push and wiggle the bristles underneath the wire to clean between the brackets and your teeth.

Cleaning Along the Gums

• Rotate the brush and continue to push and wiggle to get the bristles to clean along the gum line.

Brushing the Inside Surfaces

• Place the brush on the tongue side of your teeth at a 45-degree angle toward the gums.
• Brush along the inside surfaces of your teeth, following the same brushing technique as above.

Repeat these steps for the top, bottom, right, and left sides of your mouth at least twice a day.

Flossing With Braces

Flossing with braces may seem challenging, but it’s vital for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth. Follow these steps:

Using a Floss Threader

• Loop the floss through a floss threader.
• Gently push the end of the floss threader under the wire from the gum side.

Flossing Between Teeth

• Carefully push the floss into the contact area between your teeth.
• Clean both sides of the contact area with an up-and-down motion.
• Repeat this process between all your teeth at least twice a day.

Cleaning Difficult Areas

• For areas that are hard to reach, use an interproximal brush to assist in cleaning.

Conclusion

Maintaining diligent brushing and flossing routines with braces is essential for a successful orthodontic treatment. Proper care will not only help you achieve the best results but also keep your smile healthy and vibrant throughout the process. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact Align Orthodontics. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

Keep up the great work, and enjoy your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile!

4. Clear Aligner Instructions

Congratulations on starting your journey with clear aligners at Align Orthodontics! You've made a fantastic choice for achieving a beautiful and confident smile. To ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and effectively, it is important to follow the care instructions outlined below. These guidelines will help you maintain your aligners, keep your teeth on track, and enhance the overall success of your orthodontic journey.

Care Instructions

Wearing Your Aligners

• Wear time: For optimal results, you must wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day. Remove them only when eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing.
• Drinking: Aligners do not need to be removed when drinking water. However, other liquids might cause staining or damage to your teeth and aligners. Remove your aligners and rinse your mouth before reinserting them.

Cleaning Your Aligners

• Cleaning methods: Clean your aligners using retainer cleaning tablets, aligner cleaning foam, or a soft toothbrush with mild soap and water.
• Avoid heat: Keep your aligners away from heat sources, including sunny windows, car dashboards, boiling water, and microwaves, as excessive heat can distort the plastic.

Switching aligners:

• Switching Aligners: Follow the prescribed schedule to change your next set of aligners. It is recommended to switch aligners before going to bed to minimize discomfort and allow them to work effectively while you sleep.
• Chewies: Use the provided "chewies" each time you place your aligners to ensure a proper fit. Examine your aligners in the mirror to ensure your teeth are fully seated. If they don't fit properly, contact our office before moving to the next set.

Safety and Maintenance

• Retainer case: Always use your retainer case when your aligners are not in use. Keeping them in the case will prevent loss and damage.
• Avoid napkins: Never wrap your aligners in a napkin, as this is the most common way that they get lost. Lost aligners may incur additional fees and delay your treatment.
• Pet safety: If you have pets, keep your aligners out of their reach to avoid them being mistaken for chew toys.
• Car temperature: Never leave your aligners in your car, especially in hot weather, as the heat can damage them.

Additional Recommendations

• Elective dentistry: Postpone any elective dental work until your treatment is complete, as changes to your teeth may affect the fit of your aligners. Continue with routine visits to your general dentist for exams and cleanings.
• Bring aligners: Always bring your current and last two sets of aligners to each appointment.

Conclusion

By following these instructions, you'll help ensure a successful and comfortable experience with your clear aligners. Stay committed to your treatment plan and get excited about the positive changes happening with your smile. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at Align Orthodontics. We're here to support you every step of the way!

5. Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery) Pre- and Post-Care Instructions

Orthognathic surgery is a significant step in correcting skeletal discrepancies and achieving the optimal alignment and function of your jaws. Proper care before and after your surgery is crucial to ensure a successful outcome and a smooth recovery. This guide provides essential instructions to help you prepare for the surgery and manage your recovery effectively.

Presurgical Instructions

Presurgical Consultation

• Attend all pre-surgery appointments with your orthodontist and oral surgeon.
• Discuss any concerns or questions regarding the procedure, recovery, and postoperative care.

Medical History

• Provide a complete medical history, including any current medications, allergies, and previous surgeries.
• Notify your surgeon of any chronic conditions or health issues.

Medications

• Follow instructions regarding medications, including any antibiotics or pain relievers prescribed before surgery.
• Avoid taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medications unless advised by your healthcare provider.

Diet

• Follow dietary restrictions as advised, which may include a soft diet or liquid diet leading up to the surgery.
• Avoid consuming alcohol and tobacco, as they can interfere with healing.

Presurgery Hygiene

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before the surgery.

Transportation and Postsurgery Care

• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery, as you will be under anesthesia and unable to drive yourself.

Fasting

• Follow fasting instructions if provided. Typically, this includes not eating or drinking anything for several hours before the surgery.

Postsurgery Instructions

Immediate Aftercare

• Rest in a semi-upright position to reduce swelling and discomfort. Using pillows to prop yourself up may help.
• Apply ice packs to your face for the first 24-48 hours to minimize swelling. Apply the ice in 20-minute intervals, with breaks in between.

Pain Management

• Take prescribed pain medications as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended as well.
• Follow the specific dosage and timing instructions provided by your oral surgeon.

Diet and Nutrition

• Start with a liquid diet immediately after surgery and gradually transition to soft foods as tolerated.
• Avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods that may irritate your surgical sites.
• Stay hydrated and consume nutrient-rich foods to support the healing process.

Oral Hygiene

• Continue to brush your teeth gently, avoiding the surgical area initially.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid rinsing vigorously for the first few days.
• Your surgeon may recommend a special mouth rinse to help keep the surgical area clean.

Activity and Rest

• Limit physical activities and avoid strenuous exercise for at least the first week after the surgery.
• Follow your surgeon’s advice regarding the resumption of normal activities.

Follow-up Appointments

• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your orthodontist and oral surgeon to monitor your recovery and progress.
• Contact our office if you experience unusual symptoms or complications.

Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

• Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol, as these can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

Swelling and Bruising

• Expect swelling and bruising, which are normal parts of the healing process. These should gradually subside over time.

Speech and Function

• Your speech and chewing function may be temporarily affected. Practice speaking and eating soft foods as you recover.

Conclusion

Following these pre- and postsurgery instructions will help ensure a smooth and successful recovery from your jaw surgery. Remember that patience and adherence to your orthodontist’s and oral surgeon’s guidance are key to achieving the best results. If you have any questions or encounter any issues during your recovery, please contact Align Orthodontics. We are here to support you every step of the way.

6. Palatal Expansion Pre- and Post-Care Instructions

Palatal expansion is an effective procedure designed to widen the upper jaw to correct crossbites, make space for crowded teeth, and improve overall dental alignment. Proper care before and after the procedure is crucial for ensuring successful outcomes and minimizing discomfort. This guide provides essential instructions to help you prepare for the expansion and manage your care during the treatment process.

Pre-Procedure Consultation

Pre-Procedure Consultation:

• Attend all scheduled consultations with your orthodontist to discuss the procedure, expected outcomes, and care instructions.
• Ask any questions you may have about the palatal expander and the process.

Oral Hygiene

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth thoroughly before the procedure.
• Use a fluoride mouth rinse if recommended by your orthodontist.

Dietary Considerations

• Prepare for a soft-food diet post-procedure. Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that may interfere with the expander.

Medications

• If you are prescribed any medication before the procedure, follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist.

Preparation for the Procedure

• Plan to have someone accompany you to your appointment if you feel you may need assistance afterward.
• Avoid consuming large meals just before the procedure.

Post-Procedure Instructions

Initial Care

• Expect some discomfort and a feeling of pressure in your mouth after the placement of the expander. This is normal and should gradually subside.
• Apply ice packs to the outside of your face to help reduce swelling and discomfort, if needed. Use in 20-minute intervals with breaks.

Pain Management

• Take any prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your orthodontist.
• Follow specific dosage instructions and avoid taking more than recommended.

Diet and Nutrition

• Stick to a soft-food diet for the first few days after the procedure. Suitable options include yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies.
• Gradually reintroduce other foods as you become more comfortable.

Oral Hygiene

• Brush your teeth gently around the expander using a soft-bristled toothbrush. It’s important to clean the expander as well to avoid plaque buildup.
• Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from around the expander and between your teeth.
• Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to help keep your mouth clean and to protect your teeth from cavities.

Adjustments and Turning

• Follow your orthodontist’s instructions regarding turning the expander. Typically, this involves turning a small key to widen the expander, usually once or twice a day.
• Keep track of the number of turns and report any issues or irregularities to our office.

Monitoring and Follow-up

• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
• Contact our office if you experience unusual pain or significant discomfort or if the expander feels loose or damaged.

Speech and Comfort

• You may experience changes in your speech or minor discomfort as you adjust to the expander. Practice speaking to improve articulation over time.
• Use orthodontic wax on the expander if it causes irritation to your cheeks or tongue.

Avoid Certain Foods

Refrain from eating sticky, hard, or chewy foods that could damage the expander or get stuck in it.

Conclusion

Adhering to these pre- and post-procedure instructions will help ensure a successful palatal expansion and a smooth transition through your treatment. Proper care is essential for maximizing the effectiveness of the expander and minimizing any discomfort. If you have any questions or encounter any issues during your treatment, please contact Align Orthodontics. We are here to support you every step of the way and ensure you achieve the best possible results.