Orthodontic wire pokes are common during treatment. It’s actually a good thing because it means the teeth are moving and making progress. However, it can be slightly uncomfortable and annoying. There are ways to give yourself immediate relief using dental wax.

Breaking orthodontic brackets can be avoided but is not uncommon when wearing braces. It is usually the result of eating hard or sticky foods. Broken brackets need to be replaced or reattached to the tooth to function properly. If this happens, it’s important to notify the orthodontic office immediately so extra time can be added to an existing appointment or an additional appointment can be scheduled. Brackets left unattached will slow down treatment increasing total treatment time.

Wearing elastics during orthodontic treatment is very common. Braces alone cannot correct all bite issues and tooth movements. There are a variety of elastics types and applications, so your orthodontic office will show you exactly how to place them.

Tongue tamers help remind the tongue to stay away from teeth in patients who have a tongue thrust, where the tongue stays in a forward position instead of resting in the roof of the mouth.

Appliance Identification-Use this diagram to help identify the parts of your orthodontic appliances so we can best help you when calling the office if you have a question or to discuss a concern.

A Herbst Appliance is used for patients who are still growing to encourage growth of their bottom jaw. This helps the bottom teeth move forward when someone has an overbite.

Headgear has come a long way since the nightmare experience that some parents remember.

Carriere Appliances are used before a patient gets braces to fix an overbite or underbite. This helps the fit together like a puzzle so that you have a natural, healthy smile for years to come.

Retainers are an important part of your smile journey. After you have completed your braces or clear aligners treatment phases and your teeth look wonderful, retainers help keep your teeth straight for the rest of your life!

We use lower quad palate expanders to help make room for adult teeth when kids still have their baby teeth. When used, these expanders help reduce the need for having to remove adult teeth when children are older.

Choosing between Invisalign / clear aligners and braces isn’t an easy one. At Cook Orthodontics of Dublin, we go through all of your options during your complimentary consultation to help you decide which option is best for you.

Choosing the color of your braces is a fun way to personalize your smile and express your interests. Picking your school colors or favorite sports teams is a great way to show your spirit. But do the colored bands on braces serve a purpose other than giving you a more stylish smile?

Kids who have a habit of sucking on fingers and thumbs have an emotional connection to the habit. Similar to a blanket or stuffed animal that they can’t leave home without. At Cook Orthodontics of Dublin, we understand that it’s a big step in helping kids break the habit and palate expanders with finger reminders are an important tool in your child’s success.

Do you wonder why children are seen younger for orthodontic exams than we used to be? The American Association of Orthodontists recommend no later than age 7 for a first exam.

Learn about how palate expanders use growth during childhood to create space for permanent teeth to grow in.

Did you know that not all orthodontic braces are created equal?

Learn here about how technological advances have improved the orthodontic experience for adults and children, making it a more comfortable, more effective and less time-consuming experience.

Why do Orthodontists use turbo bites and how do they help in opening up a deep bite. Learn what they are and how they work.

Learn why it is sometimes necessary to have a tooth uncovered to assist it in growing into the mouth.

What are face masks and how do we use them to give you a great smile? Face masks are used while children are growing to fix underbites, using elastics to help stimulate the growth of your top jaw. Once the top jaw is where it should be, then you'll no longer need this appliance.