Braces are a powerful tool for creating a healthy, confident smile, but proper care is essential throughout orthodontic treatment. Dr. Patterson and the team at Smiles for Maine Orthodontics in Waterville, ME want to help patients understand how to care for their braces, protect their teeth, and stay comfortable from start to finish.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, making smart food choices, and following your orthodontist’s instructions will help keep treatment on track and prevent unnecessary delays.
How Do I Brush and Floss With Braces?
Keeping your teeth and gums clean while wearing braces is extremely important. Brackets and wires create additional places for food and plaque to collect, increasing the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and staining if oral hygiene is neglected.
Patients with braces should brush after every meal and floss daily to keep teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment. Those who do not maintain good hygiene may require more frequent dental cleanings. Adults with a history of gum disease may also be advised to see a periodontist during orthodontic treatment to help maintain gum health.
What Can I Eat While Wearing Braces?
Eating with braces requires a few adjustments, especially during the first few days. Initially, it’s best to stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta, eggs, and soups. As your mouth adjusts, you’ll gradually be able to enjoy a wider range of foods again.
However, protecting your braces is important for the entire duration of treatment. Certain foods can damage brackets and wires, leading to discomfort and longer treatment times.
Which Foods Should I Avoid With Braces?
To prevent damage to your orthodontic appliances, avoid the following foods:
- Chewy foods such as bagels, hard rolls, and licorice
- Crunchy foods like popcorn, ice, and potato chips
- Sticky foods including gum and caramels
- Hard foods such as nuts and hard candy
- Foods that require biting into, including apples, carrots, and corn on the cob
Chewing on non-food items like pens, pencils, or fingernails can also damage braces and extend treatment time.
Is Soreness Normal After Getting Braces?
Yes. It is normal to experience soreness when braces are first placed or adjusted. Teeth may feel tender to biting pressure for several days as they begin to move. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort during this adjustment period.
Lips, cheeks, and tongue may also feel irritated for one to two weeks while your mouth adapts. Orthodontic wax can be applied to brackets or wires to reduce irritation and improve comfort.
Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose During Treatment?
Teeth may feel slightly loose at times during orthodontic treatment, and this is completely normal. Teeth must loosen in order to move into their new positions. Once treatment is complete, teeth will stabilize and firm up in proper alignment.
What Should I Do If a Wire or Band Comes Loose?
Occasionally, a wire or band may loosen during treatment. 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. Applying orthodontic wax or a small piece of wet cotton can help reduce irritation.
Loose brackets or bands can usually remain in place until your orthodontist can repair them. Contact our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for evaluation and adjustment.
Why Is Wearing Rubber Bands So Important?
Rubber bands play a critical role in correcting bite alignment. For treatment to progress as planned, rubber bands or other appliances must be worn exactly as prescribed.
Inconsistent wear or damage to appliances can slow progress and extend overall treatment time. Working closely with your orthodontist helps ensure the best possible results.
Can I Play Sports While Wearing Braces?
Yes, but protection is important. If you participate in sports, especially contact sports, wearing a protective mouthguard helps reduce the risk of injury to your mouth, lips, and orthodontic appliances. Be sure to let our team know if you play sports so we can help you stay safe during treatment.
If you have questions about caring for braces or need assistance during treatment, Dr. Brian and the team at Smiles for Maine Orthodontics in Waterville, ME are always here to help. Proper care leads to smoother treatment and a healthier, more confident smile.