# Site: orourkeortho.com # URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com # Generated: 2026-09-13 03:01:08 # Version: 1.2 # File Type: llms-full.txt # Total Pages: 18 --- ## Home URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/ ### Knoxville's Top Orthodontist # Smile Request Appointment #### Established in 1985 ## Thousands of Knoxville residents are believers! Welcome to O’Rourke Orthodontics! Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you deserve – a natural, healthy and beautiful one – with our professional and supportive orthodontic care! Dr. Christopher A. O’Rourke and his experienced team will work closely with you to develop an orthodontic treatment plan that best meets your needs, whether you are a child , teen or adult . Our office is conveniently located near Farragut Intermediate, Farragut Middle, and Farragut High schools in west Knoxville, Tennessee. We have been providing high quality orthodontic care since 1985. Learn About Dr. O'Rourke Providing Knoxville with the best Orthodontic care for 30 years . #### Our Treatments ## Providing the best care for all ages! Early Treatment Ages 10 and under Adolescent Treatment Ages 10 - 19 Adult Treatment Ages 19 and over Retainers The key to success! --- ## Brushing + Flossing URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/brushing-flossing/ ### Brushing + Flossing # Everyone's favorite thing to do! #### Ensure a Healthy Smile ## Brushing and Flossing The best way to ensure a clean and healthy smile is brushing and flossing. Food particles can accumulate on teeth and in braces, and over time, turn into plaque. The bacteria that results from this accumulation can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and even loss of teeth. To avoid these problems while you are in orthodontic treatment, take special care of your braces, teeth and gums by brushing and flossing daily. ### Brushing while Wearing Braces Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small strip of fluoride toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, move the brush in small, circular motions to reach food particles that may be under your gum line. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas between teeth, between braces and the surface of each tooth. It will take you several minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth. Brush up on the lower teeth, down on the upper teeth and the outside, inside and chewing surface of your front and back teeth. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth before you rinse. Especially during orthodontic treatment, brush your teeth four times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles in your teeth and braces: • In the morning after breakfast. • After lunch or right after school. • After dinner. • At bedtime. You will need to replace your toothbrush more often due to your appliances. As soon as the bristles start to wear down or fray, replace your toothbrush with a new one. It may be difficult for your toothbrush to reach some areas under your archwire. Do not swallow any toothpaste; rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after you finish brushing. It is important to floss, use an antibacterial mouthwash and use a fluoride treatment for optimal oral hygiene. ### Flossing while Wearing Braces For areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can't reach, use dental floss to remove food particles and plaque. Flossing takes more time and patience when you are wearing braces, but it is important to floss your teeth every day. Use a reusable floss threader to floss under your archwire daily. Pull a small length of floss from the dispenser through the threader, and slide it up and down along the front of each tooth. You will be able to feel when the tooth is clean and hear the squeak of the floss against your clean teeth. Use care around your archwire, and do not floss too forcefully around it or put too much pressure on it. After you floss between your archwire and braces, floss between your other teeth and gums. If you are flossing without a floss threader, pull a small length of floss from the dispenser. Wrap the ends of the floss tightly around your middle fingers. Guide the floss between all teeth to the gum line, pulling out food particles or plaque. Unwrap clean floss from around your fingers as you go, so that you have used the floss from beginning to end when you finish. Floss behind all of your back teeth. Floss at night to make sure your teeth are clean before you go to bed. When you first begin flossing around your braces, your gums may bleed a little. If the bleeding does not stop after the first few times flossing, please inform a staff member at your next appointment. --- ## Common Problems URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/common-problems/ ### Common Problems # Understanding Your Mouth An underbite is characterized by the lower jaw extending too far out, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. This malocclusion occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth. In order to close the mouth, patients usually move their lower jaw forward or to the side when closing. This incorrect bite results in an improper use of the lower jaws and sometimes brings about facial asymmetry. The appearance and function of your teeth are impacted by this type of bite. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not extending far enough forward. The upper front teeth extend too far out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth. Problems often associated with an overbite include a "gummy" smile, protruding lips and excessive incisor wear. Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gums. It is the most common reason for braces. Not only is crowding unattractive, but it has also been linked to periodontal problems and dental decay because it is harder to clean overlapping teeth's surfaces. Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth, or they may only be a cosmetic or aesthetic issue. Spacing is another popular reason for braces. The opposite of crowding, spacing is most commonly caused by excessive jaw room for the size of the erupting teeth. Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits, such as tongue thrusting or thumb sucking. An early evaluation and intervention is essential in correcting an openbite. Dental midlines that do not match are evident when the back bite does not fit and match appropriately. This may negatively impact jaw function and proper dental function. --- ## FAQs URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/faqs/ ### Have a Question? # Our team has the answers! Orthodontic problems require specialized care. Patients who have dental and facial irregularities should see an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed at least two additional years of graduate training in orthodontics at an accredited program after graduation from dental school. An orthodontist’s specific qualifications in the design, application and control of corrective appliances will bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment for optimal facial balance.The American Association of Orthodontists recommends your child be evaluated by an orthodontist by age seven. Early detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later.No. Age is not a factor, but the health of your gums and the bone which supports your teeth can be a factor. About 20% of our orthodontic patients are adults and that number is growing.Orthodontic treatment has improved dramatically over the years. As a rule, braces make your teeth sore for a few days, but it is not painful. This annoyance can be relieved with an over-the-counter pain reliever provided you are not allergic to them and there are no medical contraindications. Today's braces are smaller, more comfortable and utilize technology which reduces discomfort. We use both the latest in self-ligating braces and the highest quality of orthodontic materials in order to reduce discomfort and treatment time.Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need.Considering the time spent, orthodontics is regarded as dentistry's best value. Orthodontic fees have not increased as fast as many other consumer products. Financing is usually available and our office offers many payment programs that will meet your needs. In addition, many insurance plans now include orthodontics. When orthodontic treatment is implemented at the proper time, treatment is often less costly than the dental care required to treat the more serious problems that can develop years later.In most cases, malocclusions are genetic, meaning you inherit them from your parents. Crowded teeth, spacing issues, extra teeth, jaw growth and formation problems, and other common crooked teeth issues are all determined mostly by your genes. Sometimes, behaviors and diseases can cause orthodontic issues, too. Thumb sucking is an example of a bad habit that can cause malocclusions, and certain dental diseases can create problems that are addressed by orthodontia. You may also have alignment or jaw issues from accidents, injuries, and other trauma to your mouth or jaw.An experienced orthodontist can do a lot more than you might expect! Still, every case is different, and without a personal consultation, you won’t know your options. Schedule a consultation with a local orthodontist to get personalized recommendations about orthodontic treatment. --- ## First Visit URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/first-visit/ ### Welcome! # Your First Visit With O'Rourke #### Get Started Today ## What you can expect from us. We look forward to meeting you on your first visit to our office. During this time, we will help you get acquainted with our office and learn about your orthodontic treatment. We understand that each patient's orthodontic treatment is different, and we promise to give you the personal attention you deserve. Your first orthodontic visit will consist of a clinical evaluation and a discussion of your orthodontic problems. This important visit will help Dr. O’Rourke determine if this is the proper time to begin treatment. We may also gather diagnostic records at this visit. Diagnostic records include X-rays, photographs and study models. After we have evaluated your records, we conduct a treatment consultation to explain all aspects of your treatment in detail. We will provide a complete clinical diagnosis regarding the nature of the problem, a written summary of the findings and a detailed plan that outlines your treatment, goals and estimated fees. We encourage questions from both the patient and the parent, and as such, we provide ample time to answer your questions. ### Open Communication We believe that good orthodontic care begins with open communication. We promise to speak candidly with you about our diagnosis and recommendations, any alternative treatments, and any symptoms present that may require further treatment. Working together, we can achieve a true partnership, with one common goal – helping you achieve a beautiful, confident smile! --- ## Foods to Avoid URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/foods-to-avoid/ ### Foods to Avoid # Choose your food wisely! #### Eat Healthy ## Foods to avoid while you have braces: While you are wearing braces, please avoid eating hard foods, sticky foods and foods high in sugar. Hard foods can break or damage the wires and brackets, and sticky foods can get caught between the wires and brackets. Minimize the amount of sugary foods you eat; the sugar can cause tooth decay and other related problems. ### Examples of Sticky Foods to Avoid • Gum (sugar-free or regular) • Licorice • Sugar Daddies • Toffee • Tootsie Rolls • Caramels • Starburst ### Examples of Hard Foods to Avoid • Ice • Nuts • Hard taco shells • French bread crust/rolls • Corn on the cob • Apples and carrots (unless cut into small pieces) • Bagels • Chips • Jolly Ranchers • Pizza crust • Uncooked carrots (unless cut) ### Minimize Sugary Foods like • Cake • Ice Cream • Cookies • Pie • Candy ### Only Once a Day • Soda • Sweetened tea • Gatorade • Kool-Aid • Drinks with sugar We encourage patients to quit bad habits, such as fingernail biting, pencil and pen chewing and chewing on foreign objects. All of these activities can break or damage your braces. It's important to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. If you have a loose/broken wire or bracket, please call our office immediately to arrange a repair appointment. --- ## Glossary URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/glossary/ ### Glossary # Words you might hear us say! #### We're Here to Help ## A few important words to know and understand. ### appliance Anything that is attached to your teeth that moves your teeth or corrects your bite. ### archwire A wire engaged in orthodontic attachments, affixed to the crowns of two or more teeth and guides the direction of tooth movement. ### band A thin metal ring, usually stainless steel, which serves to secure orthodontic attachments to a tooth. The band is closely adapted to fit the contours of the tooth and then cemented into place. ### bracket An orthodontic attachment made of metal, ceramic or plastic that holds the archwire against each tooth. The archwire fits into a slot in the bracket. Brackets may be attached directly to each tooth or to a band. ### ceramic brackets Crystalline, alumina, tooth-shade or clear synthetic sapphire brackets that are aesthetically more attractive than conventional metal attachments. ### chain An elastic chain that is used to hold the archwires onto the brackets. ### coil spring The coil spring fits between brackets and over the archwire. ### debanding The removal of cemented orthodontic bands. ### elastics (rubber bands) A tiny rubber ring that ties the archwire into the bracket. Found in numerous colors for better appearance. ### fixed retainer A permanent retainer that is bonded to the back side of the front teeth to keep the teeth from shifting from their new position. ### habit appliance An appliance designed to deter thumb or finger sucking habits. ### headgear Generic term for extraoral traction (attached around the back side of the head) for growth modification, tooth movement and anchorage. ### Herbst appliance Fixed or removable appliance designed commonly for overbite problems. ### impressions An imprint or mold of the teeth used to design an orthodontic treatment plan. ### interceptive treatment Interceptive treatment, also known as early treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment usually performed between the ages of 6 and 10. This phase of treatment makes future orthodontic treatment faster and less invasive. ### lingual appliances Orthodontic appliances fixed to the interior (tongue) side of teeth. ### MARA appliance A growth appliance that helps correct overbites by positioning the patient's lower jaw forward. ### maxillary Of or pertaining to the upper jaw. May be used to describe teeth, dental restorations, orthodontic appliances or facial structures. ### mouthguard A mouthpiece that is tailored to provide protection to the braces and teeth while the patient is playing a sport. ### palatal expander Attached to the upper molars through bonding or by cemented bands, the palatal expander is used to create a wider space in the upper jaw. ### radiograph A permanent image, typically on film, produced by ionizing radiation. Sometimes called an X-ray after the most common source of image-producing radiation. ### retainer Any orthodontic appliance, fixed or removable, used to maintain the position of the teeth following corrective treatment. ### separator (spacer) Small elastics that fit snugly between certain teeth to move them slightly so bands can be placed around them later. ### wax Patients are instructed to place wax over a bracket or poking wire that is causing irritation to the lip or cheek. --- ## Oral Hygiene URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/oral-hygiene/ ### Oral Hygiene # An important and healthy daily habit! #### Keep Your Mouth Happy ## Maintain good oral hygiene with these tips: Now that your braces are in place, it is very important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen throughout the length of your treatment. Braces, wires, bands and retainers can all trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or floss away plaque. Careful brushing and flossing, preferably after every meal and snack, is the best way to prevent plaque build-up, tooth decay and gum disease. ### Brushing While Wearing Braces Especially during orthodontic treatment, brush your teeth four times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles in your teeth and braces: • In the morning after breakfast • After lunch or right after school • In the morning after breakfast • After lunch or right after school ### Flossing While Wearing Braces Flossing takes more time and patience when you are wearing braces, but it is important to floss your teeth every day. We recommend flossing at night to make sure your teeth are clean before you go to bed. Use a reusable floss threader to floss under your archwire. Pull a small length of floss from the dispenser through the threader, and slide it up and down along the front of each tooth. Use care around your archwire, and do not floss too forcefully around it or put too much pressure on it. ### Rinsing with an Antibacterial Mouthwash To reduce inflammation to your gums and cheeks, we suggest using a hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouth rinse. This rinse will help prevent infection and decrease irritation that may develop from your braces. Rinse your mouth with two teaspoons of the hydrogen peroxide rinse for one minute, and then spit it out. You may use it up to four times daily following brushing. Just like using peroxide for a scrape on your skin, this hydrogen peroxide mouth rinse helps the inside of your mouth heal. It can be used for general irritation caused by your braces or for canker sores, cheek bites and other minor injuries to the gums. ### Using an Interdental Toothbrush An interdental (between the teeth) toothbrush is used to clean underneath and around your archwires and braces. Please use the interdental toothbrush gently to avoid damaging your wires. ### Topical Fluoride We recommend using a sodium fluoride gel to help prevent tooth decay while you are wearing braces. This gel kills bacteria and replaces minerals in the tooth enamel that have been removed by harmful acids. Using a fluoride gel does not replace daily brushing and flossing, but it should be applied following your daily schedule at bedtime. Place a small strip of the gel on a toothbrush, and apply it to your teeth for one minute. Then spit it out. Do not eat or drink for 30 minutes afterward. It is important for the active ingredient to stay on your teeth for 30 minutes, so do not wash it away by eating, drinking or rinsing. ### Cleaning Your Removable Appliance Brush your removable appliance every day as a part of your regular brushing and flossing schedule. Because food particles and plaque can accumulate on your appliance just as they do on your teeth, soak the appliance daily. Dissolve a denture-cleaning tablet in a glass of tap water at room temperature, and soak your appliance once a day. --- ## Adolescent Treatment URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/treatments/adolescent-treatment/ ### Let's see that smile! # Adolescent Orthodontics #### Phase II Treatment ## Learn the benefits of adolescent treatment: Typically, Phase II treatment is normal orthodontic treatment which involves placing braces on the patient once his or her permanent teeth have erupted. The braces straighten the permanent teeth and finish correctly aligning the patient’s jaw. By age 12, most, if not all, permanent teeth have erupted and are in place, which is when crooked teeth, gaps and bad bites can easily be detected. These problems will hardly ever correct themselves, so this is when most parents decide to seek orthodontic treatment for their children. For many teenagers, wearing braces is a part of life – an important part of life because a beautiful and healthy smile can boost one’s self-confidence. Children at this age are growing rapidly, and orthodontists can usually take advantage of these growth spurts to help shape the bite and teeth correctly. Pre-teens and teenagers have high metabolisms, which can help shorten overall treatment time and reduce the discomfort of orthodontic treatment. --- ## Early Treatment URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/treatments/early-treatment/ ### Let's see that smile! # Early Age Orthodontics #### Optimal Time for Youth ## Learn the benefits of early age treatment. Timing is everything – even when it comes to your child’s orthodontic treatment. “Early” treatment, also called “interceptive” treatment, means treatment that is performed while some baby teeth are still present. ### When is the best time to begin orthodontics? Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment. ### What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation? Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal. ### Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening? By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile. ### What are the advantages of interceptive treatment? Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are: • Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth • Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth • Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth • Preserving space for unerupted teeth • Reducing the need for tooth removal • Reducing treatment time with braces ### Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment? Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile. ### Why should malocclusions be treated? According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems: • Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. • Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. • Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. • Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you. --- ## Financing + Insurance URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/financing-insurance/ ### Finances + Insurance # Making Dental Care Affordable #### Spend Less, Smile More ## Our financial and insurance options: It is our mission to provide you with affordable, high-quality treatment that fits your budget! Your orthodontic treatment plan will include a breakdown of all applicable fees, and we will inform you of all costs before treatment is administered. We offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs. Our office accepts payments by cash, checks, and Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover credit cards. ### Affordable financing options Don’t let finances stand in your way for achieving the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve! We are pleased to offer interest-free payment plans. We also provide a discount if payment is made in full at the time braces are placed. ### Insurance policy If your insurance covers orthodontic treatment, you will receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. Many insurance policies have a lifetime orthodontic benefit that is distinct from regular dental insurance. Insurance policies vary, so we will review your insurance to determine the appropriate course of action. Once treatment has started, we will file your claims. Please remember that orthodontic insurance is a benefit for you or your child. If, during the course of treatment, your benefits change, the financially responsible party is accountable for all charges. --- ## About URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/about/ ### About Us # We give you a reason to smile! #### 30+ Years Experience ## Personalized, Professional Orthodontic Care Dr. O’Rourke grew up in Chattanooga, Tennessee and graduated from Bearden High School in Knoxville, Tennessee. He attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Zoology. While attending UT, Dr. O’Rourke worked for and was mentored by Dr. Steve Ollard and Dr. Mickey Crowell at their orthodontic practice in Bearden. Dr. O’Rourke was accepted to The University of Tennessee Center for the Health Sciences College of Dentistry in Memphis, Tennessee, where he received the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery. After completing dental school, he attended St. Louis University where he received his degree Master Science in Dentistry. After completing the clinical requirements and his master’s thesis, he received the degree of Master of Science in Dentistry. For over 30 years, Dr. O’Rourke has provided the highest quality orthodontic treatment in Farragut. His office serves patients from Bearden, Hardin Valley, Karns and Oak Ridge to Loudon County including Lenoir City and Loudon. He is a member of the Second District Dental Society, the Tennessee Dental Association, and the American Dental Association as well as, a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Southern Association of Orthodontists and the Tennessee Association of Orthodontists. Dr. O’Rourke and his wife, Sallye, have been married for 26 years and have three children. Dr. O’Rourke spends his free time with his family on Norris Lake and at UT football games. He is an avid long-distance runner and has completed 34 marathons, 17 being the Boston Marathon which he trains for every year. On Wednesday nights, Dr. O’Rourke can be found “UNDER THE BRIDGE” with the Lost Sheep Ministry, providing routine dental care for the homeless of Knoxville. --- ## Retention URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/treatments/retention/ ### Retention # Which retainer is right for you? Once we remove your braces, we will move into the retention stage of your treatment. Maintaining the results you achieved during the treatment phase is key to the success of the entire orthodontic process. Your retention phase will last for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you've put in so far. The Hawley retainer, one of the most common types, is a removable retainer made of a combination of metal wires and sturdy acrylic, and is designed to keep your teeth in place. This retainer is specially made from impressions of your teeth so that it fits snugly and comfortably in the roof of your mouth, while any wire or acrylic framing keeps your teeth in perfect position. The acrylic can also be personalized with a large number of colors and/or patterns. Bonded lingual retainers are cemented directly to the inside surface of your lower canines (eye teeth). This is one of the best ways to prevent your lower teeth from shifting as it is permanently attached! As with removable retainers, it is important to keep them clean. When brushing, carefully clean the inside of your lower teeth as well as the wire. If your retainer breaks at any time during the retention phase, please do not adjust it yourself. Call us immediately to schedule an emergency appointment. The Essix retainer is a clear removable retainer that fits over the entire arch of teeth. Essix retainers have no metal wires and are virtually invisible. They are very durable, inexpensive and easy to wear. --- ## Request Appointment URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/request-appointment/ ### Schedule an Appointment # We give you a reason to smile! Thank you for your interest in scheduling an appointment with Dr. O'Rourke! Please fill out the information below and one of our team members will contact you to schedule an appointment time. We look forward to seeing your smile soon! --- ## Types of Braces URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/treatments/types-of-braces/ ### Types of Braces # See which style fits you best! ## Metal Braces Metal braces are made of high-quality, durable stainless steel. They are the most common type of braces. The brackets, which are bonded to the front of each tooth, are connected by the archwire, which helps guide the teeth into the correct positions. Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive. ## Ceramic Braces Ceramic braces move teeth just as efficiently as metal braces, except the brackets are clear, so they are less noticeable. They are most popular with adult patients due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawbacks to ceramic brackets are that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits. --- ## Contact Us URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/contact/ ### We're here to help! # How can we help you? ## We can't wait to see you! Please email, call or fill out the adjacent form if you wish to contact O'Rourke Orthodontics. We look forward to speaking with you! 865.966.7732 caorourke@orourkeortho.com 11226 W. Point Drive Knoxville, TN 37934 Monday - Wednesday 8:30AM to 5:00PM Thursday 8:30AM to 1:30PM --- ## Emergencies URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/resources/emergencies/ ### Emergencies # We are here when you need us. #### We Are Here to Help ## O'Rourke can help with your dental emergency. There are very few true orthodontic emergencies, but we are always available to help you. If you have a broken appliance or are experiencing intense pain, please call us as soon as possible. We will do our best to fit you into the schedule for an appointment. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, call immediately to notify us that you need an appliance repaired. Surprisingly, most orthodontic problems can be remedied at home. While you await your appointment, these guidelines will help you resolve minor problems. Please know that even if you alleviate the pain caused by your broken appliance, you still need a repair appointment. ### Lost Separator Most patients lose a separator during their treatment. Do not worry about losing a separator, but please call our office to see if it needs to be replaced. ### Sore Teeth/Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment Right after you get your braces, and sometimes after you have an adjustment appointment, your teeth and mouth will feel sore. To alleviate the pain, you may take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces. You can also gargle lukewarm saltwater, which is a mixture of one teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of water. A warm wash cloth or a heating pad may also reduce the soreness in your jaws. ### Wire Irritations Try moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or eraser. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small piece of cotton or a small amount of wax. If the wire is painful, you can cut it with nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. ### Loose Wire Try putting the wire back in place using tweezers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If that does not work, try putting wax over the wire where it is poking you. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Cut the wire behind the last bracket in which it is secured. ### Headgear Doesn't Fit If your headgear is causing pain, it's usually because it isn't being worn long enough. Please adhere to your orthodontist's instructions, and wear your headgear for the instructed amount of hours each day. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for an appointment. Do not try to adjust it yourself. --- ## Adult Treatment URL: https://www.orourkeortho.com/treatments/adult-treatment/ ### Let's see that smile! # Adult Orthodontics #### Later Age Treatments ## Learn the benefits of adult treatments: More and more adults today are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. In fact, about 25 percent of our patients are adults! We offer a full range of treatments specifically designed for adults – leaving you with a dramatically different smile and healthier bite. Orthodontic treatment is not only designed to improve the appearance of your smile, but improve the health of your teeth and gums as well. By seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult you can possibly avoid severe tooth decay, gum and bone loss, irregular wear of the tooth enamel, and TMJ/TMD pain. Often times, because adults usually are more compliant in their orthodontic treatment, their results turn out far greater than with a child and/or teen. By following the instructions provided by your orthodontist, you not only increase your chances for amazing results, but could also shorten your treatment time as well. We offer a wide selection of braces to meet the individual needs and desires of each of our adult patients. From traditional metal braces to ceramic braces, we are confident we can help you achieve and maintain the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always dreamed about. Don’t ever feel it’s too late to enhance your smile. Schedule your free consultation today and let us help you start your journey to receiving a beautiful, straight smile! ---