Braces are a reliable and effective way to straighten teeth and correct bite problems, but they do require a few adjustments to your daily routine. With proper care and attention, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums while achieving great results. Good habits during treatment help prevent delays and reduce the need for extra dental visits.
How Do I Brush and Floss With Braces?
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is especially important when you have braces. Food and plaque can collect more easily around brackets and wires, so brushing and flossing thoroughly each day is essential.
We recommend brushing after every meal using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing daily helps remove plaque between teeth and along the gumline. Using a floss threader or orthodontic floss can make this process easier and more effective.
Instructional videos are available in our office to help you feel confident caring for your braces at home.
Brushing with Braces
Flossing with Floss Threader
Eating with Braces
One of the most common questions from individuals with braces is, “What can I eat?” After getting your braces adjusted, it’s best to stick to soft foods for the first day or so. Throughout orthodontic treatment, avoid hard and crunchy foods, as well as sticky items like caramels and gum. We’ve listed some examples of foods to avoid below:
- Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
- Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
- Sticky foods: caramels, gum
- Hard foods: nuts, candy
- Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
Remember, chewing on hard objects like pens or pencils can also damage your braces, potentially extending your treatment time.
Foods to Avoid
s Soreness Normal After Getting Braces?
Yes. Mild soreness is common during the first few days after braces are placed or adjusted. This usually lasts three to five days and is most noticeable when chewing. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol can help manage discomfort. Orthodontic wax can be used if brackets or wires irritate your lips, cheeks, or tongue.
Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose?
Teeth may feel slightly loose during treatment, and this is completely normal. Braces work by gently moving teeth through the bone, which requires temporary looseness. Once treatment is complete, your teeth will stabilize in their new positions.
What Should I Do If a Wire or Bracket Comes Loose?
If a wire or bracket causes irritation, try gently pushing it back into place using a clean pencil eraser or similar blunt object. Applying orthodontic wax can help reduce discomfort until you can visit our office. Please contact us during regular hours so we can schedule an appointment to fix the issue.
Why Is Wearing Rubber Bands So Important?
Rubber bands and other orthodontic appliances play a key role in correcting bite alignment. Wearing them exactly as prescribed helps teeth and jaws move properly. Not following instructions or damaging appliances can extend your overall treatment time.
Can I Play Sports With Braces?
Yes. If you participate in sports, especially those involving contact, please let us know. We provide protective mouthguards to help protect your braces, teeth, and mouth during athletic activities.