All About Braces Care and Maintenance
Brushing and Flossing Routine
Good oral hygiene is more important than ever when you have braces. Braces create extra spaces for food and plaque to build up, making brushing and flossing a top priority. If plaque isn’t removed properly, it can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even white spots on your teeth.
Patients who struggle with oral hygiene may need more frequent dental cleanings to prevent issues. If you have a history of gum disease, visiting a periodontist during treatment is also recommended. With the right habits, you’ll ensure a healthy, beautiful smile once your braces come off!
Eating with Braces
Many patients ask, “What can I eat with braces?” While you’ll still be able to enjoy most of your favorite foods, you’ll need to be mindful of anything that could damage your brackets or wires.
During the first few days after getting braces or an adjustment, stick to soft foods like scrambled eggs, smoothies, soft cheeses, and mashed sweet potatoes. As your mouth adjusts, you’ll be able to eat more comfortably, but some foods should still be avoided.
Foods to Avoid
To keep your braces in top shape, stay away from:
- Chewy foods: Taffy, granola bars, thick tortillas
- Crunchy foods: Chips, raw celery, toasted crackers
- Sticky foods: Fruit snacks, marshmallows, honey
- Hard foods: Pretzels, hard cookies, peanut brittle
- Foods that require biting into: Whole pears, uncut sandwiches, thick pizza crust
Also, avoid chewing on non-food items like fingernails, pen caps, or ice cubes, as these can bend wires and delay your progress.
General Soreness Expected
Mild soreness is completely normal when you first get braces. Your teeth may feel tender when chewing for three to five days, and your lips, cheeks, and tongue may take one to two weeks to adjust.
To ease discomfort:
- Take Tylenol or your preferred over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Stick to soft foods that don’t require much chewing.
- Use orthodontic wax to protect any areas that feel irritated.
Loose Teeth Is NormalÂ
Your teeth may feel slightly loose during treatment—this is completely normal! In order to shift into their new positions, your teeth need to move, which can make them feel less stable at times. Once your braces come off, they will firm up in their corrected positions.
What to Do If a Wire or Band Becomes Loose
Occasionally, a wire or band may come loose. If this happens:
- If a wire is poking and causing irritation, use a pencil eraser to gently push it back into place.
- Apply orthodontic wax or a piece of damp cotton over any sharp edges to prevent discomfort.
- Call our office so we can schedule an appointment to make repairs.
Rubber Bands for Treatment Success
Rubber bands (elastics) help move your teeth and jaws into the correct position, but they only work if worn consistently! Failure to wear rubber bands as instructed can slow down your treatment. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions carefully to keep your progress on track.
Playing Sports with Mouthguards
If you play sports, it’s important to protect your teeth! We recommend using a mouthguard to shield your braces and prevent injury. Ask us about getting a custom-fit mouthguard designed for orthodontic patients.
