Frequently Asked Questions
What is BRAVA?
Brava by Brius® is a completely new approach to orthodontics. They’re not braces, or aligners. Brava’s Independent Mover™ technology uses pre-programmed biomechanics to change the game. Hidden behind your teeth, Brava moves each tooth independently yet simultaneously for a more efficient solution in as few as four appointments.
Why is Brava faster than aligners?
The key word is “independent.” Aligners work in stages affecting only a small amount of movement at a time, impacting groups of teeth together. It’s kind of like playing a three-legged sack race game since the teeth affect movement of the others. That’s why aligners can take multiple mid-treatment corrections and more time.
Brava is different—it works on each tooth independently—and all teeth simultaneously, 24/7. With Brava, your orthodontist designs your ideal smile and Brava programs the shortest possible path for each tooth to its ideal position. Brava’s Independent Mover technology directs light, continuous force in all three dimensions to each tooth independent of the others, including the specific order and timing for each tooth to move. That independence moves teeth faster, and with much less hassle than aligners.
Why is Brava an improvement over braces?
Simply put, Brava is a better idea: Let’s move teeth more efficiently, and hide the process. Braces force teeth into collective movement by a wire, which can mean too much force (right after an adjustment) or too light of force (right before an adjustment), rather than Brava’s light and continuous force 24/7. And all that hardware is front and center for the world to see. When you’re not visiting the ortho for yet another adjustment.
Brava works out of sight, attached behind your teeth. And it works with greater efficiency than braces, because Brava applies light continuous force 24/7, efficiently moving each tooth independently of the others. There’s no central wire that needs constant adjusting. Which means there are many fewer appointments. And when you add it all up, Brava’s efficient approach takes less time than braces to get you to your perfect smile.
What are Independent Movers?
Independent Movers are a revolutionary way to move teeth. This patented biomechanical approach allows for independent and simultaneously movement. Once installed, Brava’s shape memory NiTi arms begin to apply constant but gentle force to efficiently move each tooth independently on a direct path to its ideal position. Brava’s process uses proprietary algorithms to help program the NiTi to move very specifically, precisely and faster than traditional braces and aligners. That’s why we call them Independent Movers™.
Is Brava really hidden from sight?
Yes it is! Your Brava is bonded behind your teeth. So, unless you’re asking people to peek deep inside your mouth, there’s nothing to see.
How do I brush with Brava?
Just like you would normally. But while we’re on the topic—think about enhancing your teeth care routine while wearing Brava. After all, your soon-to-be new Brava smile will benefit if you improve your habits. First, consider brushing with an electric toothbrush or a soft bristle 3 times a day for 2 minutes each time. Focus on each tooth for 3-4 seconds each—angle the brush up for upper teeth and down for lower teeth. Second, consider incorporating a water flosser into your routine. You can also use old school floss - there is no wire to get in the way. A little extra attention while wearing Brava will definitely earn you points with your dentist.
Can I use mouthwash with Brava?
You can! Any over-the-counter fluoride rinse used before going to bed and right after you wake up will help keep your mouth’s bacteria load under control.
Can I floss with Brava?
Absolutely! Do it twice daily. Remember, Brava works on each tooth independently, which means there’s no wires in your way—a dramatic departure from braces. Any floss will do. Or use a water flosser if you prefer.
What are the food limitations with Brava?
After you get Brava installed, please refrain from eating foods that are hard, crunchy or sticky for at least 5 hours. Start with soft foods like pasta and smoothies. Give your mouth and your Brava time to get acquainted.
You can return to a modified food routine the day after Brava’s installed:
• Avoid chomping into harder foods like carrots or apples—cut them into slices
first.
• If you must have ice in your mouth, use small chips, not whole cubes.
• Cut meat from bones (i.e. ribs) before eating.
• Never open nuts with your teeth.
• Try to avoid eating sticky foods
And remember the points above about enhancing your teeth cleaning and flossing routine.
What about chewing gum?
Hopefully you’re also talking with your ortho about gum and not just relying on this FAQ. Long story short: If you must chew gum (preferably artificially sweetened soft gum containing Xylitol) while wearing Brava, who are we to say no? But also maybe try not to? If you think about it, Brava’s going to work really fast to give you a great smile. You could avoid gum while wearing Brava, then that first stick with your brand new smile will be so worth it.
Is Brava comfortable?
Like any type of orthodontics, you and your Brava will take some time to get familiar and comfortable with each other. Adjustment time is typically around 2 weeks (for some it’s less, for others it can be a bit longer). It’s normal to feel some tongue discomfort. It’s normal for your speech to feel and sound a little different while you acclimate. You are changing the world, after all. And it’s worth noting—once Brava is installed, there are no further appointments required for adjustments or tightening like there are with braces. That's a relief! After your Brava is installed, you’ll receive OrthoDots® wax which you can use as a cushion if needed. You can also use icy foods like ice cream or popsicles, or take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help reduce any discomfort that may occur as you adjust to your treatment.
Does Brava affect speech?
It might, for a little while. After all, Brava is attached and hidden behind your teeth, and the tongue is curious. This placement could alter your speech for a week or two as your tongue gets familiar with Brava. Ask your orthodontist for tips we’ve given them about adjusting to Brava.
Do I need to wear elastics with Brava?
It depends on the type of movement your teeth need. Your orthodontist will tell you if they recommend wearing elastics in tandem with Brava. If they do, wear them all the time and change them after every meal. Your orthodontist can help you resolve any challenges wearing elastics.
I’ve got Brava installed and my teeth feel loose. Should I be concerned?
It’s completely normal for your teeth to feel loose during braces or Brava treatment. They’re moving! And you want them to move. That said—you should never feel severe pain, and your teeth shouldn’t get discolored while using Brava. (If you feel sharp or deep, lasting pain, or the color of your teeth changes, please contact your orthodontist.) Once the Independent Mover™ technology reaches its conclusion, your teeth will settle into new bone created by your body, and no longer feel loose.
What should I do if something breaks?
First, get in to see your orthodontist ASAP. Second, don’t laugh at their jokes if they make any.
Can I play contact sports wearing Brava?
Yes. We strongly recommend using a mouthguard while playing contact sports, however. Get one fitted after your Brava is installed. The good news is, Brava is installed behind your teeth, away from impact.
Can I play musical instruments with Brava?
You can! Brava shouldn’t alter your experience with instruments such as trumpet or clarinet. Of course, you and your Brava will take some time to get familiar and comfortable with each other. But practice makes perfect. Especially for drummers.
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