All About Braces
Brushing and Flossing with Braces
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential when you have braces. Brushing and flossing become more challenging, but they are more important than ever to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment. Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease, possibly requiring additional professional cleanings.
- Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush after every meal to remove food particles that can get trapped in braces.
- Flossing: A floss threader or orthodontic floss makes it easier to clean between teeth and around brackets.
For adults with a history of gum disease, visiting a periodontist during orthodontic treatment is recommended.
Eating with Braces
One of the most common questions we hear is, “What can I eat with braces?” For the first few days after getting braces or after an adjustment, stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, and macaroni and cheese. Once your mouth adjusts, you can enjoy most foods—but be mindful of anything that could potentially damage your braces.
Foods to Avoid
- Chewy foods – Soft pretzels, bagels, licorice
- Crunchy foods – Popcorn, ice, hard pretzels
- Sticky foods – Caramel, taffy, gummy candies
- Hard foods – Nuts, hard candy, granola bars
- Foods that require biting – Corn on the cob, apples, carrots (cut into small pieces instead)
Also, avoid chewing on hard objects like pens, pencils, or fingernails, as they can damage your braces and slow down your treatment process.
General Soreness
It’s normal to experience some soreness when you first get braces. Your teeth may feel tender for 3–5 days after placement or an adjustment. Tylenol or over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
- Lips, cheeks, and tongue may feel irritated as they adjust to the braces.
- Orthodontic wax can help reduce irritation—apply it over any brackets or wires causing discomfort.
Loosening of Teeth
If your teeth feel slightly loose during treatment, don’t worry—this is a normal part of the process. Teeth must first loosen before they can shift into their new positions. Once treatment is complete, they will stabilize in their corrected alignment.
Handling Loose Wires or Bands
Occasionally, a wire or band may come loose. If this happens:
- Try to gently push the wire back into place using the eraser end of a pencil.
- Apply orthodontic wax or a small piece of wet cotton over any area causing irritation.
- Call our office as soon as possible to schedule a consultation for repairs.
Rubber Band Wear
To achieve the best results, patients must follow Dr. Catherine Worthington’s instructions. If rubber bands or other appliances are prescribed, they must be worn consistently to ensure proper tooth and jaw movement. Not wearing them as directed can lead to a longer treatment time and delayed progress.
Playing Sports with A Mouthguard
If you play sports, let us know! We provide protective mouthguards to prevent injuries while playing contact sports. A well-fitted mouthguard helps protect your braces, teeth, and gums from impact.
For any concerns about braces care, discomfort, or emergency repairs, contact our office—we’re here to help!
