Brushing and Flossing
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial when you have braces to ensure the health of your teeth and gums throughout orthodontic treatment. Braces can make brushing and flossing more challenging, requiring adjustments to your oral care habits. Here are key points to remember:
- Patients who maintain clean teeth may require fewer professional cleanings.
- Adults with a history of gum disease should consult a periodontist during treatment.
Watch the videos below for tips on caring for braces during treatment.
Eating with Braces
One of the most common questions about life with braces is, “What can I eat?” Initially, stick to soft foods for the first day or so after an adjustment. Avoid tough meats, hard breads, and raw vegetables. Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy these foods again, with the understanding that you must protect your orthodontic appliances while eating throughout your treatment. Here are some tips:
- Avoid chewing on hard objects such as pens, pencils, or fingernails, as they can damage braces and extend treatment time.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can be problematic for braces and should be avoided to prevent damage:
- Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
- Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
- Sticky foods: caramels, gum
- Hard foods: nuts, candy
- Foods that require biting into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
Teeth Loosening
It’s completely normal for your teeth to feel slightly loose during treatment. This mobility is expected as the teeth shift position. They will stabilize in their corrected positions after treatment is complete.
Loose Wire or Band
Occasionally, a wire, bracket, or band may come loose. We recommend placing orthodontic wax over any area that may be causing discomfort and calling the office to schedule a repair.
General Soreness
When you first get braces, it’s common to experience:
- Soreness: Your mouth may feel tender for 3–5 days.
- Discomfort Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide relief.
- Irritation: Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may become irritated.
Tip: Use orthodontic wax to soothe irritation during the initial adjustment period.
Rubber Band Wear
Successful completion of orthodontic treatment depends on wearing rubber bands or other prescribed appliances as instructed. Consistent wear ensures the teeth and jaws move into their corrected positions effectively. Failure to comply with instructions or damaging appliances can prolong treatment time.
Athletics
If you participate in contact sports, we recommend a mouthguard specifically designed to protect your braces and teeth during contact sports activities. This protective measure helps safeguard your orthodontic treatment progress and ensures your dental health remains intact. It’s essential to prioritize the safety of your braces and teeth while enjoying sports.
