All About Braces and What You Need to Know
Braces are an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile! As you begin treatment, adjusting to a few new habits will help keep your teeth, gums, and braces in top shape.
Brushing and Flossing with Braces
Keeping your teeth clean and healthy during orthodontic treatment is more important than ever. Since braces create extra spaces where food can get trapped, it’s essential to brush and floss regularly and thoroughly to prevent plaque buildup and gum irritation.
- Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Use an interdental brush or water flosser to clean around brackets and wires.
- Floss daily with orthodontic floss threaders or a water flosser for best results.
If oral hygiene isn’t maintained, you may need more frequent professional cleanings. Adults with a history of gum disease should also see a periodontist while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Eating with Braces
One of the most common questions we hear is, “What can I eat with braces?” The good news is that you can still enjoy most of your favorite foods! However, some adjustments are necessary to protect your braces.
Foods to Avoid
- Chewy foods: Bagels, hard rolls, licorice
- Crunchy foods: Popcorn, ice
- Sticky foods: Caramel, gum
- Hard foods: Nuts, hard candy
- Foods that require biting into: Corn on the cob, apples, carrots (cut into small pieces instead!)
Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens, pencils, or fingernails, as these can damage your braces and delay your treatment.
Managing Discomfort
It’s normal to experience soreness and tenderness after getting braces or during adjustments. Here’s what to expect:
- First Few Days: Your teeth may feel sore for 3–5 days as they adjust. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like Tylenol, can help.
- Lips, Cheeks, and Tongue Irritation: Your mouth may need 1–2 weeks to adjust to the brackets and wires. Orthodontic wax can be placed over any rough spots to reduce discomfort.
What If Something Feels Loose?
Braces work by gradually shifting your teeth, so it’s normal for teeth to feel slightly loose during treatment. But if a wire or bracket becomes loose, follow these steps:
- Loose Wire: Use the eraser end of a pencil to push it back into place gently.
- Irritating Wire: Apply orthodontic wax or a small piece of wet cotton over the area.
- Need Help?: Call our office for an appointment to fix the issue.
Wearing Rubber Bands
For effective treatment, following Dr. Samuel Waddoups’ instructions is essential! If rubber bands or other appliances are not worn as directed, it can extend treatment time and delay your perfect smile. Wearing rubber bands consistently helps guide your teeth and jaw into the desired position, ensuring quicker results. Skipping or altering the prescribed wear schedule can slow down the treatment process and may lead to additional appointments or adjustments.
Sports and Mouthguards
If you play sports, let us know! We’ll provide a protective mouthguard to keep your teeth and braces safe during contact sports. Wearing a mouthguard protects your braces and reduces the risk of injury to your gums, lips, and teeth. It’s a simple but important step to ensure your orthodontic treatment stays on track while you enjoy your favorite activities.
