All About Braces Maintenance and Care
Understanding how to care for your braces is essential for a smooth and effective orthodontic journey. Below, you’ll find key information on maintaining your braces, what to expect during treatment, and tips for keeping your smile healthy.
Brushing and Flossing with Braces
Braces require extra attention to oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Since brackets and wires create more spaces where food particles can get trapped, it’s important to:
- Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily using special orthodontic floss threaders or a water flosser.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and keep gums healthy.
Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to prolonged treatment times and additional dental visits. If you have a history of gum disease, regular checkups with a periodontist may also be necessary.
Eating with Braces
One of the most common questions we hear is, “What can I eat?” While you can still enjoy many of your favorite foods, some adjustments are necessary to protect your braces.
Foods to Avoid:
- Chewy foods – pizza crust, taffy, granola bars
- Crunchy foods – chips, pretzels, raw celery
- Sticky foods – fruit snacks, toffee, marshmallows
- Hard foods – peanut brittle, ice cubes, jawbreakers
- Foods requiring biting into – pears, uncut sandwiches, whole pickles
Additionally, avoid chewing on non-food items like pens, pencils, or fingernails, as they can damage your braces and prolong treatment.
Common Concerns During Treatment
General Soreness
Mild discomfort is normal after getting braces or following an adjustment. You may experience:
- Soreness for 3 to 5 days
- Irritation to the lips, cheeks, and tongue for 1 to 2 weeks
To manage discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever like Tylenol and apply orthodontic wax to any areas causing irritation.
Loosening of Teeth
It’s natural for teeth to feel slightly loose throughout treatment—this means they’re moving into their correct positions. Once treatment is complete, they will stabilize.
Loose Wire or Bracket
If a wire or band comes loose:
- Try tucking the wire under the archwire using a pencil eraser.
- Apply orthodontic wax to reduce irritation.
- Call our office for an appointment to repair the issue.
Wearing Rubber Bands
To ensure your treatment stays on track, it’s crucial to wear rubber bands or other prescribed appliances as directed. Inconsistent wear can delay progress and extend treatment time.
Playing Sports with a Mouthguard
If you participate in sports, let us know! A custom orthodontic mouthguard can help protect your braces and teeth from injury.
Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard reduces the risk of broken brackets and cuts inside your mouth. Whether you play contact or non-contact sports, protecting your smile is essential for a smooth orthodontic journey.
Keeping Your Smile Beautiful with Retainers
After braces, retainers are essential for maintaining your new smile. Custom-made to fit your teeth, they ensure your teeth stay in place as they settle into their final positions.
With consistent use and proper care, retainers help you enjoy a lasting, beautiful smile. Wearing your retainer as prescribed will protect the results of your orthodontic treatment and keep your smile looking its best for years to come.
