All About Braces
Getting braces is an important step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Knowing what to expect and how to care for your braces will help keep treatment on track and your teeth and gums healthy. Below are answers to common questions patients have while wearing braces at Dr. Doug Orthodontics.
How Should I Brush and Floss With Braces?
Brushing and flossing are more important than ever during orthodontic treatment. Food and plaque can easily collect around brackets and wires, increasing the risk of cavities and gum irritation.
Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily using floss threaders or orthodontic flossers. Patients who fail to maintain their oral hygiene may require more frequent dental cleanings. Adults with a history of gum disease may also need to see a periodontist during treatment.
What Can I Eat With Braces?
For the first day or two after getting braces, it’s best to stick with soft foods while your teeth adjust. As soreness fades, you can return to most foods, but certain items should be avoided to protect your braces and prevent damage.
What Foods Should I Avoid While Wearing Braces?
Some foods can bend wires, break brackets, or slow down treatment progress. Avoid:
- Chewy foods such as bagels, hard rolls, licorice
- Hard or crunchy foods like popcorn, hard nuts, ice, and hard granola
- Sticky foods including caramels, gum, gummies, and taffy
- Foods that require biting into, such as apples, carrots, corn on the cob, or meat on the bone. These should be cut into small pieces instead
Avoid chewing on pens, pencils, fingernails, or other hard objects, as this can damage your braces and lengthen your treatment time.
Is It Normal to Feel Soreness After Getting Braces?
Yes. Mild soreness and tooth tenderness are common for the first three to five days after braces are placed or adjusted. Ibuprofen such as Motrin or Advil often helps reduce discomfort due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also feel irritated for one to two weeks as they adjust. Orthodontic wax can be placed over brackets or wires to reduce irritation during this time.
Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose During Treatment?
Teeth becoming slightly loose is normal during orthodontic treatment. Teeth must loosen in order to move into their correct positions. Once treatment is complete, the teeth will firm up again in their new alignment.
What Should I Do If a Wire or Band Comes Loose?
Loose wires or bands can happen occasionally. If a wire is poking or causing irritation, you can gently push it back into place using the eraser end of a pencil. Applying orthodontic wax or a small piece of wet cotton can help relieve irritation.
If the problem continues, contact our office so we can schedule an appointment to fix it.
Why Is Wearing Rubber Bands So Important?
Rubber bands and other orthodontic appliances play a critical role in guiding your teeth and jaws into proper alignment. Treatment only progresses as planned when these appliances are worn exactly as prescribed.
Not wearing rubber bands consistently or damaging appliances can significantly extend treatment time, so following instructions is essential for achieving the best results.
Can I Play Sports With Braces?
Yes. If you play contact or competitive sports, let us know. We will provide a protective orthodontic mouthguard to help protect your teeth, braces, and lips during athletic activities.