Orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward achieving your dream smile, but braces come with unique challenges and responsibilities. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate life with braces, from maintaining oral hygiene to managing discomfort and playing sports.
Brushing and Flossing with Braces
Good oral hygiene is more important than ever during orthodontic treatment. Braces can make brushing and flossing more challenging, so it’s essential to adjust your habits to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Why It Matters: Poor hygiene can lead to plaque buildup, gum inflammation, or even decalcification (white spots on teeth).
- Extra Care: Patients with braces may need more frequent dental cleanings. Adults with a history of gum disease should also visit a periodontist during treatment.
Watch the videos below to learn the best practices for brushing and flossing with braces!
Eating with Braces
The first few days after getting braces or adjustments can leave your teeth feeling tender. During this time, stick to soft and gentle foods, such as:
- Oatmeal
- Pudding
- Broth-based soups
- Mashed bananas
- Soft pasta or noodles
Once you adjust, you can enjoy most foods, but it’s essential to take precautions to protect your braces.
Foods to Avoid
To keep your braces intact and your treatment on track, it’s best to avoid these types of foods:
- Chewy Foods: Taffy, fruit snacks
- Crunchy Foods: Chips, crackers
- Sticky Foods: Marshmallows, toffee
- Hard Foods: Pretzels, granola
- Foods You Bite Into: Whole pears, celery, uncut sandwiches
Tip: Be mindful of chewing on hard objects like ice, pen caps, or fingernails, as this can damage your braces and potentially extend your treatment time.
Managing Discomfort
General Soreness
When you first get braces, you may experience mild soreness for 3–5 days. Your teeth might feel tender to biting pressures, and your lips, cheeks, and tongue could take 1–2 weeks to adjust. Here’s how to ease the discomfort:
- Take over-the-counter pain relief (e.g., Tylenol).
- Use orthodontic wax on braces to reduce irritation.
Loosening of Teeth
Don’t worry if your teeth feel a little loose—this is normal! Teeth must loosen slightly to move into their new positions. They’ll stabilize once treatment is complete.
Addressing Common Issues
Loose Wire or Band
If a wire or band becomes loose, follow these steps:
- Use orthodontic wax or wet cotton to cover the irritating wire.
- If necessary, use the eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire into a more comfortable position.
- Contact our office as soon as possible to schedule a repair.
Rubber Band Wear
Rubber bands are an essential part of your treatment. To ensure the success of your braces:
- Wear rubber bands exactly as prescribed by your orthodontist.
- Understand that skipping or inconsistent wear can delay treatment and lead to longer timelines.
Staying Active with Mouthguards
If you play sports, it’s important to protect your smile. Let us know about your activities so we can provide a custom mouthguard. This extra layer of protection is especially important for contact sports like football, basketball, or hockey.
Your braces are a tool for creating a beautiful, healthy smile. With proper care, cooperation, and a little patience, you’ll achieve the results you’ve been waiting for. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help every step of the way!
