All About Braces
Getting braces is exciting, but it also comes with a few new habits to protect your teeth and keep treatment on track. Below are the most important tips for caring for your braces, staying comfortable, and avoiding damage during treatment.
How Should I Brush and Floss With Braces?
Brushing and flossing are more important than ever during orthodontic treatment. Braces create extra spaces where food and plaque can collect, so keeping your teeth and gums clean helps prevent cavities, gum irritation, and stains.
You should:
- Brush thoroughly after every meal
- Floss daily using floss threaders or orthodontic flossers
- Pay close attention to the gumline and around brackets and wires
Patients who do not maintain good oral hygiene may need more frequent dental cleanings. Adults with a history of gum disease may also be advised to see a periodontist during treatment. Our team can show you proper brushing and flossing techniques to protect your smile.
Watch the videos below on the proper care of braces during orthodontic treatment.
What Can I Eat While Wearing Braces?
For the first few days after getting braces, stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta, and soups. As your mouth adjusts, you can return to most normal foods with a few important exceptions.
What Foods Should I Avoid With Braces?
Certain foods can damage brackets and wires, which may slow treatment progress. To protect your braces, avoid:
- Chewy foods like bagels, licorice, and hard rolls
- Crunchy foods such as popcorn and ice
- Sticky foods, including gum and caramels
- Hard foods like nuts and hard candy
- Foods you must bite into, such as apples, corn on the cob, and raw carrots
Cut firm foods into small pieces whenever possible. Avoid chewing on pens, pencils, or fingernails, as this can break braces and extend treatment time.
Is Soreness Normal After Getting Braces?
Yes. It’s normal to experience general soreness or tenderness for 3 to 5 days after braces are placed or adjusted. Your teeth may feel sensitive when biting or chewing.
To manage discomfort:
- Take Tylenol or your usual pain reliever (avoid aspirin unless directed)
- Eat soft foods during sore periods
- Use orthodontic wax on brackets that irritate your lips or cheeks
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may take one to two weeks to adjust as they toughen and adapt to the braces.
Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose During Treatment?
Loosening of teeth is a normal and expected part of orthodontic treatment. Teeth must loosen slightly so they can move into their correct positions. Once treatment is complete, the teeth will stabilize and firm up in their new alignment.
What Should I Do If a Wire or Bracket Comes Loose?
Occasionally, a wire or band may loosen. This is not an emergency, but it should be addressed.
If a wire is poking or irritating your mouth:
- Use the eraser end of a pencil to gently push it into a more comfortable position
- Apply orthodontic wax or a small piece of wet cotton to reduce irritation
- Call our office to schedule a repair appointment as soon as possible
Why Is Wearing Rubber Bands So Important?
Rubber bands and other appliances play a key role in guiding your bite into proper alignment. Braces alone cannot do all the work.
For treatment to stay on track:
- Wear rubber bands exactly as prescribed
- Follow all appliance instructions consistently
Not wearing rubber bands as directed can significantly lengthen treatment time.
Can I Play Sports With Braces?
Yes. If you play sports, especially contact sports, it’s important to let us know. A protective mouthguard will be provided to help prevent injury to your teeth, lips, and braces while playing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting braces often comes with questions about daily life, comfort, and what to expect throughout treatment. Here are some additional answers to help you feel more confident during your orthodontic journey.
How Long Will I Need to Wear Braces?
Treatment time varies for each patient depending on the complexity of the case and how well instructions are followed. Your orthodontist will provide a personalized estimate.
Can Braces Stain My Teeth?
Braces themselves do not stain teeth, but poor oral hygiene can lead to discoloration around brackets. Keeping your teeth clean helps prevent this.
Are Some Teeth More Difficult to Move Than Others?
Yes. Each tooth responds differently to treatment, and some may take longer to shift depending on position, root structure, and spacing.
Will I Need Additional Treatment After Braces?
In some cases, minor refinements or continued monitoring may be recommended to ensure long-term stability and optimal results.
What Happens If I Miss an Adjustment Appointment?
Missing visits can delay progress since adjustments are needed to keep teeth moving properly. It’s important to reschedule as soon as possible.