Today's question comes from Annette about her frustration with her current orthodontist and her braces:
"Hi Doctor Pang. I am having problems with my current dentist. When I started my braces treatment in November, they had put on the brackets on my upper teeth and also the spacers. I was told that time that they were going to put my wires on my next appointment. When I went back for my next appointment just this past week, nothing was done but just the molding of my teeth which I was told they needed to send to the lab so that the lab can make my appliance. I am a little frustrated now and do not want to continue with my braces treatment. My question is, is it possible for another orthodontist or dentist to remove the brackets that I have as I would not want to go back to my current dentist to have them remove it. Please advise. Thanks"
Dr. Pang: Dear Anette…You seem very disappointed and frustrated with your particular treating office. Perhaps there were other things that have upset you with the office that you have not mentioned. Quite frankly, your reaction seems a bit extreme based on the information you gave me in the email.
Are you upset because your treatment is not progressing according to YOUR time schedule? Having orthodontic braces is one of those things in life that just can’t be rushed. Your orthodontist may be waiting for your teeth to move in such a way that may not be obvious to you. And, your treatment can not progress until this occurs. Perhaps your orthodontist is waiting to see how you react to the new orthodontic brackets? Are your teeth particular sensitive? Do you brush well?
My best advice to you is to admit to your doctor that you are frustrated. Be honest, and try not to be angry. Good luck. Try to keep smiling!