Metal Mouth Message Board

Hey, A few days ago I had an appointment with the Ortho, and asked if I would benefit from also having a removable Hawley-type retainer. The Ortho told me 'no', I didn't need one. He said that those teeth were self-retaining, and that the bonded wires are all that I require. So, I guess I just have ...

Hey, I have a braided wire across the front 4 on the top. On the bottom, it's across the front 6. I'm just concerned that this is not enough retention since all the other teeth are free to move. I'm not sure if the Ortho has a good reason for only retaining these teeth. But, the fact that most peopl...

Hello everyone, A few days ago I had my braces removed, and had a permanent wire installed on the bottom 6 and top 4. I'm quite concerned about shifting, and wondering whether having ONLY the permanent retainers is enough retention? From my searches I've found that most people who receive permanent ...

I had spaces in my teeth for 21 years and I didn't feel any sorrow about them being gone!

Tooth rotation can start with just Elastic Ligatures on the wire.



Powerchains can also be used to rotate and ligature placement can be used (Lig on only one half of the bracket).

It's hard to say if your gum recession is abnormal without seeing it. You will notice changes in your gums during treatment, but I can't say if its abnormal without seeing it. Did your Ortho give any reason for going from 4wks to 2wks? It is possible to move teeth too fast/have adjustments too often...

The clear brackets are clear... They work exactly the same as metal brackets, they're just made of different material, like Sapphire.
Sometimes they cost a little bit more.

I have clear Inspire Ice brackets and they're great.

I started on 16 NiTi top and bottom. It depends on how level and how close to proper arch form you're when you start. More severe cases need to start with a lighter wire.

Do you happen to live in Toronto?

I have Inspire ICE brackets and really like them!


This pic was taken when I started 4 months ago. Teeth have changed a lot since then though.

Braces puff your lips out which creates the illusion that cheeks are deeper and face thinner. Don't worry so much.

I eat all the same foods I did before braces.

Yes, this is normal as your arch is formed and some rotation begins to take place.
Keep a close eye on the way your teeth are moving and you'll be able to see why that space was created.

When it's time, the spaces will be closed.

I have Inspire Ice on the top. Really like them.

You don't really need anything special. Regular toothbrushes work fine. You can find floss threaders in Shoppers drug mart and many other places.

For anything else you may need, just ask your Ortho.