Life with Braces

First Day of Braces

Initially, the braces feel like they “stick out.” This is normal. As you become accustomed to your braces and tooth alignment improves, this sensation will disappear and cease to be a concern. Although the brackets have been rounded and smoothed, until the cheek tissues have “toughened,” you may find it helpful to use a small piece of wax around the bracket that is creating the irritation.

Over-the-counter pain relief can be taken before discomfort starts, and dental wax can be used to ease any irritation from the braces touching your cheeks.

Navigating Your Diet with Braces

With braces, it’s crucial to avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage the brackets and wires. Foods like popcorn, nuts, hard candies, and sticky or chewy candy can cause breakages, necessitating additional dental visits for repairs. Instead, opt for softer, braces-friendly options that are gentle on your orthodontic appliances.

Additionally, cut hard fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots into bite-sized pieces to prevent damage. Adhering to these dietary guidelines not only protects your braces but also contributes to maintaining overall dental health by reducing the risk of food particles getting stuck and causing decay.

Keeping Your Braces Clean

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is more important than ever with braces, as they can trap food particles and create areas where bacteria can flourish.

Brushing

Brush your teeth thoroughly after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, focusing around the brackets and at the gum line. This will help prevent plaque buildup and cavities.

Flossing

Flossing daily is also crucial and can be facilitated with a floss threader to navigate around wires and reach the gum line effectively. Remember, keeping your braces clean not only ensures a healthier mouth but also contributes to more effective and efficient orthodontic treatment.

Caring for Your Orthodontic Appliances

Regular checks for any loose or damaged parts of your braces are essential for maintaining the integrity of your orthodontic appliances. If you notice something amiss, such as a loose bracket or a poking wire, contact our office immediately to arrange for a repair.

This proactive care is crucial for avoiding delays in your treatment schedule and ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

Maintaining Clear Aligners

Clear aligners require different care than traditional braces. To avoid staining and damage, remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water.

Clean your aligners daily with clear, antibacterial soap and lukewarm water to maintain their clarity and hygiene, avoiding colored or scented soaps that can alter their appearance.

Retainer Care

After your braces are removed, retainers are crucial for maintaining your teeth's new position. To remove bacteria and food particles, clean your retainer thoroughly at least once a day using a soft brush and lukewarm water.

Remember, always store your retainer in its case when not in use to protect it from damage and contamination.

Emergency Care for Braces

If you encounter an orthodontic emergency, such as a broken bracket, a poking wire, or severe discomfort, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent further complications. For minor discomforts, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp areas, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate pain. However, if the issue involves broken appliances that affect function or cause significant pain, it is crucial to contact our office immediately.

In cases where a piece of your appliance comes off, try to save any pieces that you can and bring them to your appointment. For severe emergencies that occur outside of our normal business hours, our answering service provides instructions on how to reach us or manage the situation until you can get professional care. Remember, timely handling of orthodontic emergencies not only helps relieve discomfort but also prevents your treatment from being set back.

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