Brushing and Flossing
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment. Braces can make brushing and flossing a bit more challenging, but keeping your teeth and gums healthy will help ensure the best results. Neglecting proper care may lead to more frequent dental cleanings or even complications.
For adults with a history of gum disease, regular visits to a periodontist during treatment are strongly recommended.
Eating with Braces
One of the most common questions we hear is, “What can I eat with braces?” Here’s what you need to know:
Soft Foods Are Your Friends: For the first day or so after an adjustment, stick to soft options like mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies, and soups.
Avoid Certain Foods: To protect your braces and ensure smooth progress, steer clear of:
- Chewy Foods: Bagels, hard rolls, and licorice.
- Crunchy Foods: Popcorn, chips, and ice.
- Sticky Foods: Caramels, taffy, and gum.
- Hard Foods: Nuts, hard candy, and raw pretzels.
- Foods You Bite Into: Whole apples, corn on the cob, and raw carrots.
Even chewing on non-food items like pens, pencils, or fingernails can damage your braces, potentially prolonging your treatment.
Managing Discomfort and Adjustments
- General Soreness: After getting braces, you may experience tenderness for 3–5 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like Tylenol, can help manage discomfort. Irritation of the lips, cheeks, or tongue is normal as they adjust to the braces; orthodontic wax can provide relief.
- Tooth Loosening: Slight loosening of teeth during treatment is perfectly normal. This temporary movement is essential for achieving their corrected positions and will resolve once treatment is complete.
- Loose Wires or Bands: Occasionally, wires or bands may come loose. If a wire is causing irritation, gently push it back into place with an eraser or apply orthodontic wax to reduce discomfort. Contact our office as soon as possible for repairs.
Check out this helpful video below for tips on taking care of braces!
The Importance of Rubber Band Wear
Your treatment’s success relies on teamwork between you and Dr. Dan Pennella. Rubber bands and other appliances are essential for guiding teeth and jaws to their corrected positions. Consistently wearing them as prescribed will help keep your treatment on track and minimize delays.
Sports and Mouthguards
If you play sports, it’s crucial to protect your smile. Let us know about your activities so we can provide a custom mouthguard. This will keep your braces and teeth safe during games and practices.
