Life with Braces
It’s normal to feel pressure or slight looseness at the beginning. Your teeth are moving, this is part of treatment
Once your teeth have been repositioned, they will no longer feel loose
Oral Hygiene with Braces
Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment to keep your teeth, gums, and braces clean.
Brushing
Clean around brackets, wires, and gumline after meals and before bedtime.
Flossing
Use Super Floss, a floss threader, or a water irrigator to clean between teeth.
Mouth Rinse
Use a fluoride mouthwash daily to help protect your teeth.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods can damage brackets, bend wires, or make cleaning around braces more difficult.
Hard Foods
- Apples and raw carrots → cut into small pieces
- Corn on the cob → remove kernels
- Hard bread, pizza crusts, bagels, tacos
- Ice, hard nuts, peanuts
Sticky & Chewy Foods
- Caramel, taffy, chewing gum
- Jelly beans, Skittles, sticky candies
- Popcorn, jawbreakers
Protect Your Braces During Daily Activities
A few simple precautions can help protect your braces, prevent damage, and keep your treatment moving smoothly.
Habits to Avoid
Avoid biting on pens, pencils, nails, or using your teeth to open things, as these habits can damage brackets and wires.
Playing Sports with Braces
You can still play sports during treatment. Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces, and ask us if you need help choosing the right one.
Need Help Caring for Your Braces?
Our team is here to guide you with the right habits, tools, and advice throughout your orthodontic treatment.