Braces

An anterior open bite is a dental condition in which the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. This can occur due to various factors such as genetics, habits such as thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use, or an abnormal bite relationship. Open bites can have a significant impact on a person's oral health and function. It can cause difficulty with biting and chewing, leading to issues with digestion. An open bite can also affect a person's speech and lead to problems with enunciation.

Correcting an anterior open bite with orthodontic treatment is important for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Orthodontic treatment can help to realign the teeth and jaw to create a proper bite relationship and improve oral function. There are several different treatment options for correcting an open bite. The most common approach is to use braces or clear aligners in conjunction with rubber band elastics to move the teeth into the correct position. In some cases, temporary anchorage devices (TAD's) or other appliance may be used to help guide the teeth into the correct position. Myofunctional therapy is also sometimes advised if the patients diagnosis requires it. Dr. Hood & Dr. Carr will make the proper diagnosis and write any appropriate referrals.

In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the open bite. This could involve jaw surgery to realign the jaw or to remove excess bone or gum tissue.

The specific treatment plan for correcting an anterior open bite will depend on the individual patient's needs and the severity of their condition. It is important to work closely with an orthodontist to determine the best course of action.

Overall, correcting an anterior open bite with orthodontic treatment is essential for improving oral function and addressing any potential aesthetic concerns. By working with an orthodontist, patients can achieve a healthy and functional bite, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the alignment and straightening of teeth, as well as correcting bite problems. One of the most common treatments in orthodontics is the use of braces, which are devices used to apply constant, gentle pressure to the teeth in order to move them into the desired position.

But how exactly do braces work, and what is the biology behind orthodontic-facilitated tooth movement?

When teeth are subjected to constant pressure, they will naturally try to move in the direction of that pressure. This is because the teeth are held in place by a group of specialized cells called periodontal ligament cells, which are found in the periodontal ligament (PDL) that surrounds the tooth. These cells are responsible for anchoring the tooth to the jawbone, as well as allowing for movement of the tooth when subjected to force.

When a tooth is subjected to pressure from a brace, the PDL cells on the side of the tooth facing the direction of the pressure will become stretched and elongated. At the same time, the PDL cells on the opposite side of the tooth will become compressed and shortened. This creates tension in the PDL, which prompts the cells to divide and multiply in order to maintain their ability to hold the tooth in place.

As the cells divide and multiply, the tooth is slowly moved in the opposite direction of the pressure. This process is called orthodontic facilitated tooth movement. It occurs in small increments over a period of time, with the rate of movement determined by the amount of force applied and the duration of treatment.

The biology behind orthodontic facilitated tooth movement is a complex and fascinating process that involves the interaction of various cells and tissues in the mouth. By understanding how braces work and the role that the PDL plays in tooth movement, orthodontists are able to effectively straighten and align teeth to improve the overall health and appearance of their patients' smiles.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.

Braces, also known as orthodontic braces, are a common treatment option for correcting misaligned teeth and improving overall oral health. While they can be a highly effective treatment, it can take a long time for braces to work and produce the desired results. In this blog post, we will explore some of the reasons why braces take so long to work and what you can expect during the treatment process.

One of the main reasons why braces take a long time to work is due to the nature of the treatment itself. Orthodontic treatment is a slow and gradual process that involves applying constant, gentle pressure to the teeth over an extended period of time.This pressure helps to gradually move the teeth into their proper alignment, but it takes time for the teeth to respond to this pressure and make the necessary adjustments. Your teeth are held into your mouth by your jaw bone, the periodontal ligament, and gum tissues. When the tooth feels pressure from the braces, your bone and tissue to break down and your periodontal ligaments to loosen, allowing the teeth to move where we want them to move. Then, new bone needs to be created and your ligaments need to stiffen to hold your teeth in their new position.

Another factor that can affect the length of time it takes for braces to work is the severity of the misalignment. If your teeth are severely misaligned or have a complex bite issue, it may take longer for braces to correct these issues. Similarly, if you have any underlying dental health issues that need to be addressed before beginning orthodontic treatment, this can also add time to the treatment process.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, the length of time it takes for braces to work can also depend on your age, overall oral health, and how closely you follow your orthodontist's instructions. Children and adolescents tend to respond more quickly to orthodontic treatment because their teeth are still growing and their jawbones are more pliable. Adults, on the other hand, may take longer to see results because their teeth and jawbones are fully developed and more resistant to change.

Overall, the length of time it takes for braces to work can vary widely depending on a variety of factors extending anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. On average, treatment with braces can take anywhere from 18 to 20 months, but in some cases, it may take even longer. It's important to keep in mind that orthodontic treatment is a long-term commitment, and it's essential to be patient and follow your orthodontist's instructions closely.

If you're considering braces as a treatment option, it's essential to have realistic expectations and be prepared for a long-term commitment. While it may take a while for braces to work and produce the desired results, the end result is a healthy, beautiful smile that is well worth the wait. So, it is important to be patient and follow your orthodontist's instructions closely to ensure the best possible results.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the correction of misaligned teeth and jaws. While many people may think of orthodontics as a cosmetic procedure, the importance of orthodontics extends far beyond just improving the appearance of your smile. In fact, orthodontic treatment can have a significant impact on your overall oral health and quality of life.

One of the main benefits of orthodontics is that it can help to prevent dental health problems. When teeth are misaligned, it can be difficult to properly clean them, which can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment can help to realign the teeth and jaws, making it easier to brush and floss effectively and reduce the risk of these dental health problems.

Orthodontic treatment can also improve the function of the teeth and jaws. Misaligned teeth and jaws can cause issues with biting, chewing, and speaking, which can lead to discomfort and difficulty with everyday activities. Misalignment left untreated may have long-term negative consequences including excessive tooth wear, jaw/joint pain (i.e. Temporomandibular Joint Disfunction), gum recession, tooth mobility, and bone loss. Orthodontic treatment can correct these issues, improving the function of the teeth and jaws and making it easier to perform everyday tasks.

In addition to the practical benefits, orthodontics can also have a positive impact on a person's self-esteem and overall quality of life. A healthy and attractive smile can boost confidence and improve social interactions, leading to a better overall quality of life.

It is important to visit an orthodontist for a consultation if you are concerned about the alignment of your teeth or jaws. Early detection and treatment can often lead to better results and can prevent more serious dental health problems from occurring in the future. While orthodontic treatment can take some time, the long-term benefits to your oral health and overall quality of life make it well worth the investment.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.

Orthodontic treatment is a type of dental care that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. One common problem that orthodontists often encounter is class 2 malocclusion, which refers to a condition in which the upper teeth protrude significantly beyond the lower teeth. This can result in an excessive overjet, or the horizontal distance between the upper and lower front teeth, and an excessive overbite, or the vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth.

Patients with class 2 malocclusion often also have mandibular retrognathia, which is a condition in which the lower jaw is underdeveloped or recessed compared to the upper jaw. This can result in a variety of problems, including difficulty biting and chewing, speech impairments, airway disturbances, and facial asymmetry.

Orthodontists have several treatment options available to address class 2 malocclusion, excessive overjets, and overbites in patients with mandibular retrognathia. These options may include:

1. Braces: Traditional metal braces are a common treatment option for patients with class 2 malocclusion. The braces apply gentle pressure to the teeth to gradually move them into their correct positions. Braces are generally paired with orthodontic elastics which help to align your bite into an ideal position. Elastics are placed onto the brackets themselves by the patient themselves. Elastic rubber bands help align your bite and are very important for the bite-fixing phase of orthodontic treatment, which is usually the longest and most difficult part of the whole process.
2. Herbst Appliance: A Herbst appliance is an orthodontic device that helps align the upper and lower jaws, correcting bite discrepancies such as an excessive overjet and/or overbite. If your child is suffering from an excessive overjet or overbite, this functional appliance works 24 hours a day to influence jaw growth and improve the position of a recessed lower jaw.
3. Headgear: Headgear is a type of orthodontic appliance that is worn on the head and attached to the braces. It helps to correct overbites by applying pressure to the upper jaw to encourage it to grow forward.
4. Invisalign Mandibular Advancement: Invisalign treatment with mandibular advancement is meant for tweens and teens presenting with retrognathic Class II malocclusions in permanent dentition or stable late mixed dentition. The special feature of enhanced precision wings for Invisalign treatment with mandibular advancement are integrated into the Invisalign aligners.
5. Removable appliances: Removable appliances, such as aligners or clear plastic retainers, can be worn to gently move the teeth into their correct positions. These appliances are often used in conjunction with braces to achieve optimal results.
6. Surgery: In severe cases of mandibular retrognathia, surgery may be necessary to correct the position of the lower jaw. This type of procedure is typically reserved for patients who have not responded to other treatment options or have severe jaw deformities.

Regardless of the treatment option chosen, it is important for patients to follow their orthodontist's instructions and attend all scheduled appointments in order to achieve the best possible results. With proper treatment, patients with class 2 malocclusion, overjets, overbites, and mandibular retrognathia can achieve a more functional and aesthetically pleasing smile.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.

Orthodontic emergencies can be stressful and painful, especially when you are at home or traveling and don't have access to your usual orthodontic care. However, there are steps you can take to minimize the discomfort and damage to your teeth and braces. Here is what you can do in an orthodontic emergency at home and while traveling:

1. Loose or broken braces: If one of your braces comes loose or breaks, try to put it back in place or cover the sharp edges with wax or orthodontic adhesive. If the brace is completely detached, keep it in a safe place and bring it with you to your next appointment. In the meantime, use wax or adhesive to keep the loose wire from poking or scratching your cheek or tongue.
2. Loose or missing bands: If a band comes loose or falls off, try to put it back in place using wax or adhesive. If the band is missing or cannot be reattached, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to have it replaced.
3. Wire irritation: If a wire is poking out of your braces and causing irritation, try using the back of a spoon or a pencil eraser to gently push the wire back into place. If this doesn't work, cover the wire with wax or a small piece of gauze until you can see your orthodontist.
4. Lost or broken retainers: If you lose or break your retainer, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to have it replaced. In the meantime, try to avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could damage your teeth.
5. Toothache or jaw pain: If you have a toothache or jaw pain, rinse your mouth with warm salt water and take over-the-counter pain medication as needed. Avoid biting down on hard or chewy foods and contact your orthodontist for further treatment.
6. Broken rubber bands: Every once in a while, the tiny elastic bands or little wire ties that hold your brackets and wires together, known as elastomeric ligatures or "o-ties", can rip, tear, or break off. If it’s a rubber band, sterilize your tweezers and use them to gently try to put the wire back in place. If the o-tie becomes completely disloged or broken, let us know so we can add a new one. If it’s a wire ligature and it’s just sticking out, use a cotton swab or a pencil eraser to push it back to where it belongs. If it’s really loose, take it out with tweezers.
7. Sensitive Teeth: When you first get your braces put on and after your visit with an orthodontist and the wire is changed or tightened, or whenever you pop in a new set of Invisalign or Invisalign Teen aligners, your teeth can be a little sensitive for a few days. This is normal and not a concern. If possible, try to schedule your orthodontic appoints so they’re not right before you leave for vacation since, of course, you don’t want sore teeth while you’re enjoying your time on vacation. Regardless, stick to soft foods and cold drinks for the first day or two if necessary. You can also try swishing with salt water or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
8. Lost Separator: There aren’t really any DIY remedies for a lost separator and it just happens sometimes. Contact our office and we’ll let you know if you should come in to have it replaced before your next scheduled appointment. Generally speaking, if your next visit is within 1-2 days it shouldn't be too much of an issue. However, its better to be safe than sorry and call us as soon as possible.
9. Lost Invisalign Aligner: Always carry your case with you and put your aligners in it when you take them out. If you accidentally lose the current aligner and you still have aligners remaining in your set scheduled to be worn later, its generally okay to jump to the next aligner. Try in the next aligner and if it appears that it fits well with no spaces in between the teeth and the plastic, then continue wearing until your next visit. If you’re traveling, you’ll also want to call us so we can determine the best course of action. If you don't have any next set of aligners, then try to go back to your previous set of aligners until you can be seen in the office for evaluation. Regardless, whenever you lose an aligner you should call our office to best determine how to proceed.

While traveling, it is a good idea to pack a small emergency kit with supplies such as wax, adhesive, and a small pair of scissors or pliers in case you need to make any temporary repairs to your braces. It is also a good idea to have the contact information for your orthodontist and a nearby emergency dental clinic in case of a more serious problem.

Remember to always follow your orthodontist's instructions for caring for your braces and teeth, and don't hesitate to contact them if you have any questions or concerns. By taking care of your braces and seeking proper treatment when needed, you can minimize the risk of orthodontic emergencies and keep your teeth and braces in good condition.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.

Orthodontic retainers are an essential part of the orthodontic treatment process. They help to hold the teeth in their newly aligned position after the braces are removed, ensuring that the desired results of treatment are maintained long-term.

There are several different types of orthodontic retainers, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks.

1. Fixed retainers: These are thin wires that are bonded to the back of the front teeth, similar to braces. They provide a high level of stability, but they can be difficult to clean if not done so following your orthodontists instructions.
2. Removable retainers: These are made of a clear plastic material that fits over the teeth and can be removed for cleaning. They are more comfortable than fixed retainers, but they may not provide as much stability.
3. Hawley retainers: These are an "older" style of removable retainer. They are made of an acrylic body with a wire that wraps around the front teeth. They can be adjusted to fit the wearer's mouth, but they may be more noticeable than other types of retainers.
4. Essix retainers: These are the most common types of removable retainers. These are similar to Hawley retainers, but they are made of a clear plastic material that covers the entire teeth. They are virtually invisible, but they may not provide as much stability as other types of retainers.

Regardless of the type of retainer chosen, it is important to wear the retainer as directed by the orthodontist. In the early stages of treatment, the retainer should be worn full-time, and then gradually reduced to nighttime wear as the teeth become more stable.

Failing to wear the retainer as directed can lead to the teeth shifting back to their original position, negating the benefits of treatment. It is also important to clean the retainer regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and plaque.

In conclusion, orthodontic retainers are an important part of the treatment process and play a crucial role in maintaining the results of treatment. It is essential to wear the retainer as directed and to clean it regularly to ensure the best possible outcome.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.

An orthodontic evaluation is a crucial step in the process of straightening teeth and correcting bite problems. It allows patients to discuss their concerns with a trained specialist and determine the best course of treatment.

So, when is the best time to get an orthodontic consultation? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This is because certain orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they are identified and treated at a younger age.

One of the main reasons for early orthodontic evaluation is to detect and correct problems with the development of the jaw and teeth. During the early childhood years, the bones in the face and jaw are still growing and developing. This means that certain problems, such as overcrowding or misalignment, can be corrected more easily at this stage. For example, a child with a narrow upper jaw may benefit from early treatment to help expand the jaw and create more space for the permanent teeth.

Early orthodontic evaluation can also help to prevent more serious problems from developing later on. For example, if a child has an overbite (when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth) or an underbite (when the lower teeth protrude over the upper teeth), early treatment can help to prevent these problems from getting worse and potentially avoid extractions or in severe cases, jaw surgery.

In addition to the benefits for the patient, early orthodontic evaluation can also save time and money in the long run. By detecting and correcting problems at an early age, patients may be able to avoid more complex and expensive treatment later on.

Overall, it is important for patients to receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 in order to detect and correct problems with the development of the jaw and teeth. Early treatment can help to prevent more serious problems from developing and can save time and money in the long run. If you have concerns about your child's teeth or bite, it is important to speak with an orthodontist as soon as possible.

Hood & Carr Orthodontics offers a complimentary new patient exam at no charge. At this stage Dr. Carr or Dr. Hood will evaluate your or your child's bite and teeth and make the appropriate recommendations for next steps. To schedule your or your child's complimentary new patient exam please press HERE or call us at (530) 343-7021.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.

Wearing braces can be a challenging experience if instructions are ignored, but proper oral hygiene and dietary habits can help ensure that the process goes smoothly. One important aspect of maintaining healthy teeth and gums while wearing braces is knowing which types of foods to avoid.

Here are some types of foods that you should avoid while wearing braces:

1. Hard foods: Hard foods can easily damage braces, so it's best to avoid them. This includes foods like raw carrots, hard candies, and nuts. If a bracket breaks due to eating hard foods, it is recommended you call your orthodontist immediately to get it replaced or else your treatment time may be extended.
2. Sticky foods: Sticky foods can get stuck in the wires and brackets of your braces, making them difficult to remove and potentially damaging the braces. Examples of sticky foods to avoid include gum, taffy, and caramel.
3. Crunchy foods: Foods like chips and pretzels can also get stuck in your braces and can cause damage. It's best to avoid these types of foods or cut them into small pieces before eating.
4. Sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease, which can be a problem for anyone, but especially for those wearing braces. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks while wearing braces.

It's important to remember that maintaining a healthy diet is important for overall health, but it's especially important for those wearing braces. By avoiding hard, sticky, crunchy, and sugary foods, you can help ensure that your braces work effectively and that your teeth and gums stay healthy during the treatment process.

NOTE: The author, Dr. Graydon Carr, is a board-certified orthodontist who is in the private practice of orthodontics in Chico, California with his partner Dr. B. Scott Hood. Dr. Graydon Carr was trained at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California, and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas School of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Graydon Carr & Dr. B. Scott Hood’s are experts in two-phase treatment, extraction and non-extraction therapy, functional orthodontics, clear aligners (Invisalign), and multiple bracket systems. This blog is for informational purposes only and is designed to help consumers understand currently accepted orthodontic concepts. It is not a venue for debating alternative treatment theories. Dr. B. Scott Hood & Dr. Graydon Carr are licensed to diagnose and treat patients in the state of California. They cannot diagnose cases described in comments nor can they select treatment plans for readers. The opinions expressed here are protected by copyright laws and can only be used with written permission from the author.