Dr. Cottone D.D.S, M.S
 (910)485-5190                

Questions & Answers....

Is my diet affected by braces?
Yes. It is very important for you to follow the right diet plan for your braces. If you don't
follow the diet plan, brackets and bands will break and complications will arise. Here are
some tips to follow to help you while you have your braces on:

  • Cut your food into small pieces. Make sure to do this for foods that are tough to bite, such as pizza,
    apples, carrots, corn on the cob, and crusty bread.

  • Eat soft foods, like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and stews. These are especially good if your
    mouth is sore after an adjustment.

  • Avoid sticky or chewy foods, including candy and gum. Never chew ice cubes.

  • Eat fewer sugary foods to help prevent tooth decay. When you do eat sweets, brush well afterward.

  • Avoid crunchy foods, such as peanuts, popcorn, corn chips, potato chips, and pretzels. A good
    alternative for corn and  potato chips would be a softer chip, for example: Ruffles or Lays Potato
    Chips.



Should I brush and floss often?
Yes. When you have braces, there are a lot of places for food to get stuck and plaque to
build up. To prevent problems, it's best to brush after every meal and snack.  It is important
to  floss twice a day. Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Your orthodontist will
recommend floss threaders or other aides to help.


Do braces hurt?
Your teeth may be a little sore after your braces are adjusted. But most of the time (at least
three weeks), you probably won't even notice the braces are there.


Can't I just get a retainer?
Probably not. Retainers don't work the same way braces do. Retainers are best for holding
your teeth in place once your braces come off.

How long do I have to wear braces?
A lot depends on you. The better you take care of your teeth and braces, the sooner you'll
be able to get your braces off.  A broken bracket can add a month to your treatment time.  
The more brackets that you break, the longer you stay in treatment.


Will braces stain my teeth?
No. Braces don't stain teeth. But you can get stains if you don't take care of your teeth.  
There is a condition called "white spots or white scars"  which is permanent and
irreversible.  If your hygiene reports are consistently poor, our doctor will remove the
braces before treatment is finished.  So be sure to brush after meals and see your dentist
for regular cleanings.  


Do I have to get my teeth pulled?
Only if it will help your teeth and jaws fit together better. But don't worry. If you need teeth
removed, the spaces will be closed. No one will even notice. You may also need to have
your wisdom teeth removed. Your orthodontist can talk with you about this.


Can I still play sports or a musical instrument?
Sure! It may take a few days to get used to your braces, you'll still be able to keep doing
the things you like.  We have "Comfort Covers" or "Orthodontic Bumpers".


Will I have to wear headgear?
Not everyone has to wear headgear.  But even if you do, you'll probably only need to wear
it at home and while you're sleeping.  No one will ever know.


Why do different Doctors have different treatment plans?
Different doctors are trained differently.  Brackets can be tied down with elastics, stainless
steel ties or there are also ligatureless brackets.  Either way, the teeth will move.