Prepare for Your Orthodontic Journey

African American young man having a visit at the dentist's. He is sitting on chair at dentist office in dental clinic in Fairfield County, CT

Helpful Resources for Patients

Discover essential resources and valuable insights for your orthodontic journey at Rhee Orthodontics. From comprehensive FAQs addressing common questions about Invisalign, braces, and more, to appointment information, we strive to empower our Fairfield County, CT patients with everything they need to make informed decisions about their dental health.

Get to know your orthodontist

Meet Dr. Matt

Patient Information

portrait of girl with colorful braces and smile happily in Fairfield County, CT

Emergency Care

If you encounter an orthodontic emergency, don’t panic – Rhee Orthodontics is here to help. Whether you have a broken brace or experience discomfort or pain, we urge you to call either the Stamford office at 203-348-7571 or the Westport office at 203-635-4005. We will promptly book an appointment for you to receive the care you need.

Sometimes an appointment is not necessary and instructions can be given over the phone. Even if you are unsure if you are experiencing a dental emergency, call our office, we’re happy to address any concerns you have.

Tips & Tricks

Over-the-Counter Care Products

Peroxyl

Peroxyl can help to heal irritations in the mouth. By swishing two teaspoons or the contents of a sample packet for at least one minute, Peroxyl provides relief and soothes discomfort. It can be used up to four times a day, offering you convenience and effective care.

Orabase

Orabase can be directly applied to canker or mouth sores. Its purpose is to alleviate pain and promote healing. Applying it up to four times daily can bring you relief and support your oral health during your braces journey.

Disclosing Tablets

Disclosing tablets can be a valuable tool to ensure thorough brushing. By chewing half a tablet, swishing it around your mouth, and then spitting it out, you can identify areas that may have been missed during brushing. These tablets reveal any remaining plaque on your teeth, allowing you to focus on those spots and improve your oral hygiene routine.

Caring for Your Braces

Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your braces. We recommend brushing after every meal, but if that’s not possible during school hours, rinsing your mouth can help. Before you hit the pillow, brush carefully with a rotating motion between your gums and braces. Remember, no snacks after your final brushing.

Use a Waterpik Once Each Day

Incorporate a Waterpik into your daily routine. This handy device effectively removes food particles and plaque. Use it once a day, ensuring the pressure is not too high. Place the tip of the Waterpik between your teeth, holding it for five seconds before moving to the next tooth. Consider adding a small amount of mouthwash to the warm water for additional freshness.

Use Wax for Sore Spots

Wax can come to the rescue if you feel a wire poking your cheek or a sharp edge on your braces. Simply pull off a small piece, roll it into a ball, and place it directly on the discomforting area. However, if you experience a broken wire or a bracket coming off, call us for assistance.

The No-No List

Download our No-No List and hang it up on the fridge!

View The No-No List

Getting Started With Treatment

Welcome to the beginning of your orthodontic journey! Below, you’ll find valuable resources to guide you through your first days of treatment and to understand the responsibilities and cooperation needed for a successful orthodontic experience.

Your First Days in Orthodontic Treatment

Responsibility and Cooperation

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect during my first visit?

During your first visit to our office, our treatment coordinator will gather preliminary information from you, addressing any questions you may have about the office. Next, you will meet Dr. Rhee, who will examine your teeth and discuss any present or developing orthodontic concerns. If you’re ready for treatment, diagnostic records will be recommended. In case you’re not quite ready, we may place you on a recall list for periodic evaluations until the time is right to begin treatment.

What happens during the diagnostic records appointment?

The diagnostic records appointment, lasting about an hour, includes taking photographs, x-rays, and digital study models of your teeth. These records help Dr. Rhee study your teeth and devise your treatment plan. Afterward, you’ll have a consultation visit with Dr. Rhee to review your diagnosis and complete your treatment plan. This appointment provides an ideal opportunity for you to learn about your orthodontic treatment and ask any questions. For child patients, they must attend this appointment with their parents. Following this, we will schedule the placement of your orthodontic appliances or braces.

What foods and activities should I avoid while I have my braces?

To protect your braces, it’s crucial to avoid gum chewing, nail biting, chewing on pencils, and putting non-edible items in your mouth. While we provide a no-no list of foods to avoid on the day your braces are put on, remember to use common sense when making food choices to minimize any potential issues.

What should I do if I lose or break my retainers?

If your retainers become lost or broken, don’t worry! Call our office right away, and we’ll schedule an appointment to measure and prepare new retainers or repair the broken ones. If only one is lost or broken, keep wearing the other one as it’s still effective. Depending on your retainer type, getting new ones may take up to a week, so don’t hesitate to reach out and get the process started.

Should I get a special mouthguard to play sports?

If your chosen sport requires a mouthguard, the answer is a resounding yes. While standard store-bought mouthguards help prevent tooth movement, they can hinder the natural shifting of your teeth. That’s why we recommend a flat plane mouth guard, which allows for comfortable movement while still providing protection. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Simply ask our friendly staff or doctors when you need an appropriate mouthguard for your sporting activities. Your smile’s safety is our priority!

What should I expect during the appointment that I get my braces?

Our orthodontic assistant will be there to greet you. They will explain and perform any necessary preliminary procedures to prepare your teeth for braces. Dr. Rhee will then apply your braces, a process that could take up to two hours depending on the type you choose. Throughout this time, you’ll receive instructions on caring for your teeth and braces. It’s normal for teeth to feel slightly uncomfortable as they start the shifting process, which can last for a few days.

What should I do to make my treatment progress smoothly?

Treatment success is a collaborative effort. While the doctor handles placing and adjusting the braces, your responsibility lies in taking good care of your teeth and braces, as well as wearing any appliances and elastics as instructed. Remember, the movement of teeth primarily occurs between visits, so it’s important to avoid broken braces, wires, and lost appliances, and to comply with wearing elastics and appliances. By sticking to the treatment plan and maintaining oral hygiene between appointments, your treatment will progress smoothly.

How long do I have to wear my retainers?

After braces, retainers are vital to preserving your smile’s perfection. Wear them full-time for the initial six months, removing them for eating and brushing but keeping them in your mouth the majority of the day. Following this period, nighttime wear is required. As retention is a lifelong commitment, wearing your retainer at night or every other night ensures long-lasting alignment, even after office visits end

What age should I have an orthodontic evaluation for my child?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children undergo their first orthodontic evaluation at age seven. By then, an orthodontist can assess their bite, growth and development, and permanent dentition. This allows us to intercept any potential orthodontic problems or begin monitoring their dental development. However, if you’re concerned about your child’s teeth before age seven, feel free to schedule an initial examination – there’s usually no associated fee.

Discover the joy of achieving a beautiful smile with Rhee Orthodontics!

Schedule your appointment today