John S. Disher, DMD

Centre West, 1601 Cedar Lane Road
Greenville, SC 29617
864-246-8200

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About Us

About Rubber Bands

	Should be worn 24 hours a day
	Should be changed daily at approximately the same time
	Should be removed while eating or brushing teeth, then immediately replaced
	Should all be changed whenever one breaks

About Braces

Fixed braces are bonded onto your teeth and remain in place throughout treatment.

	Traditional metal brackets are the most durable option, however they are also the most noticeable.
	Clear plastic brackets are virtually invisible on your teeth, but they may turn yellow or lose shape over time.
	Ceramic brackets are colored to blend with your teeth, making them the least noticeable kind of bracket. They are brittle and susceptible to breakage, though.
	Removable braces, better known as retainers, fit against your upper or lower palate. They can be removed for mealtimes and teeth brushing.

About Headgear

	Always release the elastic band before attempting to remove your headgear.
	Do not ride bikes, participate in competitive events, or engage in physical contact such as tussling or wrestling while wearing your headgear.
	Do not wear your headgear outside your house unless Dr. Disher has given you specific instruction to do so.

• Continue to visit your regular dentist while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your dentist and hygienist know how to clean your teeth without damaging your appliances.

• Choosing softer foods such as poultry, seafood, pastas, or stews will cause less damage and discomfort.

• With tougher foods such as steak, pizza, and bagels, cut small pieces to make chewing easier.

• Slice fresh fruit and vegetables into bite-size pieces rather than biting into a whole piece. Cut corn off the cob.

• Remember to brush and floss! Good oral hygiene is more important now than ever. Ask Dr. Disher about special tools that can make daily dental care easier.

• Keep your appointments. Missed appointments interfere with the progression of your treatment and may result in an extended wearing period and increased costs.

• Use wax to blunt the end of wires that are causing irritation. Dr. Disher is happy to supply this at no charge.

• If you’re supposed to wear rubber bands, wear them.

• Hard and sticky foods may bend, break, or loosen your appliances.

• If you can’t give them up all together, be wary of problem foods, like popcorn and peanuts. If one of those tiny hulls get stuck between your teeth or next to a gum, you could end up with a very painful abscess.

• Believe it or not, eating french fries right after an adjustment to your braces will make your teeth feel better!

• Use a fluoride mouthwash nightly. Dr. Disher will provide you with a prescription for one he recommends, but the Act brand is a satisfactory substitute.

• If you’re not very thorough at brushing your teeth, ask Dr. Disher about an extra-strength prescription toothpaste.