Clinical Notes Cindi S., 26, 5'4'' 208 lbs from
Texas
Goal 145 pounds, moderately active and willing to devote 6 passionate months to
the goal:
April 10, 2001:
Examination of teeth, gums, all soft tissues, extent of
movement of jaws, and TMJ (Temporo-Mandibular joints) reveals that Cindi is in
good health. Her medical dental history is unremarkable and the
informed consent for jaw wiring has been signed and dated. No radiographs
were warranted. Begg brackets were placed on upper teeth 4,5,6 and 11, 12, 13
and lower teeth 29,28,27 and 22,21, and 20. Cindi was asked to put her
teeth gently together and the wiring was done with
"deadsoft" .016 inch diameter stainless steel round wire. Prior to
wiring she was given a prophylaxis. Cindi carefully observed the placement and
procedure of bonding brackets and wiring and rewiring the jaws in the event that
a dentist/orthodontist is not available to do the work. She said her jaws were
very comfortable and that the jaw wires permitted her a slight bit of jaw
movement. She was given instructions and practice regarding how and when
to remove the wire. She was given instructions on how to exercise her jaws
during the 3-5 days she would be released from the wires and advised re the
possibility of the joint becoming more limited in motion over time (two fingers
of opening rather than 3 fingers). Ps. Cindi was counseled to adhere to a
1400 calorie low/no salt liquid diet and to have access to a handy
guide to the caloric value of foods such as one of the below.
April 24
Dr. Ted replies: Yes do release. the wires. I do hope rewiring yourself will not be an insurmountable. I know Alicia Says she does it in a heart beat. Let me know the moment you are rewired and be very careful to rewire yourself so that you feel balanced on right and left sides and your teeth are oh so gently just touching each other. Furthermore, (now here comes the lecture) just because you are unwired does not give you the license to be wanton with your indulgences. Try for moderation! I look forward to hearing from you Fri.Cindi Emails: I am having difficulty breathing because I have a sinus infection and I can't breathe very well through my nose. Do you think it would be okay to release myself? I have already lost almost 15 pounds, and I think if I could get over this cold I'll feel better. I could then rewire myself on Friday.
