All About Braces Care and Oral Hygiene
Brushing and Flossing
It’s more important than ever to brush and floss regularly when you have braces, so the teeth and gums are healthy during orthodontic treatment. Patients who do not keep their teeth clean may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning. Adults who have a history of gum disease should also see a periodontist during orthodontic treatment.
Watch the two videos below on the proper care of braces during orthodontic treatment.
Can I Eat with Braces?
What can you eat? Let’s talk about what you shouldn’t eat! For the first day or so, stick to soft foods. Avoid tough meats, hard breads, and raw vegetables. Before long, you’ll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you’ll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you’re wearing braces.
What foods should you avoid when using braces?
- Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
- Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
- Sticky foods: caramels, gum
- Hard foods: nuts, candy
- Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
Chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils, or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.
What Should I Expect After Getting Braces?
It’s completely normal to have questions about what your mouth may feel like once braces are placed. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and confident as your orthodontic treatment begins.
General Soreness and Tender Teeth
After getting braces, you may notice general soreness in your mouth and tenderness when biting or chewing. This usually lasts 3 to 5 days as your teeth begin to adjust. Over-the-counter pain relief, such as Tylenol, can help manage any discomfort.
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also feel irritated for the first one to two weeks while they adjust to the braces. This is a normal part of the process. To help ease irritation, we provide orthodontic wax that can be placed over brackets or wires that rub against sensitive areas.
Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose?
Teeth loosening during orthodontic treatment is expected and completely normal. Teeth need to loosen slightly in order to move into their correct positions. Once treatment is complete, your teeth will naturally firm up again in their new, properly aligned positions.
What If a Wire or Band Comes Loose?
Occasionally, a wire or band may loosen during treatment. If this happens, there’s no need to panic. If a wire is poking or irritating your mouth, you can gently push it back into place using the eraser end of a pencil.
If irritation continues, placing orthodontic wax or a small piece of wet cotton over the area can help protect your lips or cheeks. Please contact our office as soon as possible so we can schedule a visit to repair the issue and keep your treatment on track.
Why Is Wearing Rubber Bands So Important?
Orthodontic treatment is a team effort. Rubber bands and other appliances play a key role in guiding your teeth and jaws into proper alignment. For treatment to progress as planned, rubber bands must be worn exactly as instructed.
Not wearing them consistently or damaging appliances can slow progress and extend treatment time. Following instructions closely helps ensure the most efficient and successful results.
Playing Sports with Braces
Yes, you can absolutely continue playing sports while wearing braces. If you participate in contact sports, it’s important to let us know. A protective mouthguard is provided to help keep your teeth, braces, and mouth safe during athletic activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting orthodontic treatment comes with lots of small, everyday questions, and we’re here to help. These quick answers are designed to give you clear, reassuring information so you feel confident and prepared throughout your braces journey.
How long does soreness last after getting braces?
Most soreness lasts 3 to 5 days and gradually improves as your teeth adjust.
What should I do if a wire is poking me?
Gently push it back with a pencil eraser and use orthodontic wax. Call our office if it continues.
Will braces affect my daily activities?
Only briefly. Eating and speaking usually feel normal again within a short time.
When should I call the orthodontist about a problem with my braces?
If something feels uncomfortable, breaks, or doesn’t seem right—and home fixes like wax don’t help—it’s always okay to call. Our team is happy to guide you and schedule a visit if needed.
Can orthodontic payments be split between parents or caregivers?
Yes. We can help coordinate payment arrangements between parents or caregivers when needed. Our team will work with you to find a solution that’s clear, simple, and stress-free.
