All About Braces Care and Oral Hygiene
Brushing and Flossing with Braces
Brushing
Brush your teeth after every meal for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. A powered toothbrush can also be helpful for a deeper clean. Use gentle, circular motions and be sure to clean around brackets, wires, and along the gumline to remove plaque effectively.
Flossing
Flossing is essential for removing food and plaque between teeth. With braces, this may require a floss threader or orthodontic floss to guide the floss under the wires. Gently slide the floss between each tooth and along the gumline. If traditional flossing feels challenging, a water flosser can be a great alternative for easier, effective cleaning.
Eating with Braces
Perhaps one of our most-asked questions about life with braces is “What can I eat?” Let’s talk about it! For the first day or so after an adjustment, 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.
Foods to Avoid
To protect your braces and avoid damage, try to limit:
- Chewy foods like bagels, licorice, and hard rolls
- Crunchy foods like popcorn, chips, and ice
- Sticky foods like gum and caramel
- Hard foods like nuts and hard candy
- Foods you bite directly into, such as whole apples, corn on the cob, or raw carrots
Foods You Can Enjoy
There are still plenty of delicious options you can safely enjoy:
- Dairy: yogurt, soft cheeses, milk-based drinks
- Grains: pasta, soft rice, pancakes, tortillas
- Proteins: soft chicken, meatballs, fish, and lunch meats
- Vegetables: steamed or cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes
- Fruits: bananas, applesauce, soft fruits
- Treats: ice cream (without nuts), milkshakes, soft cakes, gelatin desserts
Also, avoid chewing on non-food items like pens, pencils, or fingernails, as these can damage your braces.
Soreness
It’s normal to feel some tenderness when you first get braces or after adjustments. This may affect your teeth, lips, or cheeks temporarily. Over-the-counter pain relief, orthodontic wax, and warm saltwater rinses can help ease discomfort.
Loose Teeth
As your teeth begin to move, they may feel slightly loose. This is a normal and expected part of the process, and your teeth will stabilize as treatment progresses.
Loose Wires or Brackets
If a wire or bracket becomes loose or causes irritation, you can gently reposition it using a clean object like the eraser end of a pencil. Applying orthodontic wax can help reduce discomfort until you can visit our office.
Rubber Bands & Appliances
If Dr. Pohlman prescribes rubber bands or other appliances, it’s important to wear them exactly as instructed. Consistency is key to achieving the best results and keeping your treatment on schedule.
Athletics
You can absolutely stay active while wearing braces! If you play sports, we recommend wearing a protective mouthguard to help prevent injury to your teeth and appliances. If an accident occurs, check for any damage, rinse with warm salt water if needed, and contact our office so we can guide you on the next steps.
We’re Here to Support Your Smile Every Step of the Way
Taking care of your braces doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, we’re here to make it simple. At Shift Orthodontics, Dr. Kelly Pohlman and our team are always available to answer your questions, provide guidance, and support you throughout your treatment.
By following these care tips and staying consistent with your oral hygiene routine, you’ll be setting yourself up for a smooth experience and a beautiful, healthy smile at the end of your journey. If you ever have concerns or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you stay on track and feel confident every step of the way.