For best results, orthognathic surgery to correct misaligned jaws and teeth is usually performed on patients whose jaws have finished developing or growing, typically in the the late teens to early twenties.
While dental insurance may cover some or all of your orthodontic treatment, it does not typically cover orthognathic surgery. If you do have insurance coverage for surgery, it would be through your medical insurance. To see if your plan covers surgical orthodontics, check with your provider.
Unlike children, adults are no longer growing, so surgery is the only way to modify the size, shape, or position of an adult’s jaw bones.
We recommend rinsing your mouth guard after use and storing it in a clean container. You should never toss your mouth guard loose in your gym bag with your dirty clothes and shoes. You should also make sure to deep clean it at least once a month.
The comfort level largely depends on the type of mouthguard. With a variety of styles and types to choose from, consulting with your orthodontist is recommended to identify the best option for you.
Absolutely! Wearing a mouthguard with braces is not only possible but strongly recommended to aid in protection from dental trauma.
If your elastics go missing, make a beeline for your orthodontist’s office. Don’t procrastinate until your next scheduled appointment. Consistently wearing your elastics is key to moving teeth efficiently and keeping your treatment timeline on course.
A brief break without elastics may delay your progress. Your orthodontist can always provide a fresh batch of elastics to keep you on the right track toward achieving that picture-perfect smile.
Doubling up on orthodontic elastics is a no-go. We promise this will not accelerate your tooth alignment. Instead, it may cause extreme discomfort and harm your teeth and jaws.
Each stage of your treatment has been precisely planned and designed to move your teeth in a controlled, safe manner. Overloading with elastics could derail this carefully charted journey. Always follow your orthodontist’s instructions for the best and quickest results.
When you first start wearing elastics, you may experience some discomfort. Discomfort is normal and should subside as your mouth gets accustomed to the new accessory. Please do not remove the elastics to relieve the soreness, even temporarily, as consistent wear is crucial to adapting to their use and staying on track with your treatment plan. However, if discomfort persists or intensifies, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist.
If you’ve been fitted with a removable retainer, it’s easy to clean when you take it out. Your orthodontist will show you how. If your retainer is attached to your teeth, it’s important to brush thoroughly after meals and clean under the wire with dental floss at least once a day. Ask your orthodontist how to care for your fixed retainer.
