LIFE WITH BRACES

Now that you have your braces, it is crucial to understand how to effectively care for them throughout your entire orthodontic treatment.

EATING WITH BRACES

While you'll be able to enjoy popcorn and snacks like potato chips again soon, it's important to exercise caution and avoid foods that could potentially harm your braces. Taking special care in selecting appropriate foods will help protect your new appliances and ensure a smooth orthodontic treatment process.

FOODS TO AVOID WITH BRACES:

  • Chewy foods — bagels, licorice

  • Crunchy foods — popcorn, chips, ice

  • Sticky foods — caramel candies, chewing gum

  • Hard foods — nuts, hard candies

  • Foods that require biting into — corn on the cob, apples, carrots

FOODS YOU CAN EAT WITH BRACES:

  • Dairy — soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks

  • Breads — soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins without nuts

  • Grains — pasta, soft cooked rice

  • Meats/poultry — soft cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats

  • Seafood — tuna, salmon, crab cakes

  • Vegetables — mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans

  • Fruits — applesauce, bananas, fruit juice

  • Treats — ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, soft cake

SORENESS CAUSED FROM BRACES AND APPLIANCES

It is common to experience tenderness or soreness in your teeth and mouth when you first get braces. Rest assured, this discomfort is temporary, and it will not last forever. To alleviate the pain, we suggest creating a saltwater solution by dissolving one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water. Gargle and swish this solution in your mouth for a few minutes, ensuring not to swallow the saltwater. This simple remedy can provide relief and help soothe any discomfort you may be experiencing.

LOOSE TEETH

If you notice that your teeth feel slightly loose after getting braces, there is no need to worry. This is a normal part of the orthodontic process. The purpose of braces is to gradually shift and reposition your teeth, and as a result, they may initially feel loose. Rest assured that once your teeth have been properly realigned, they will stabilize, and the sensation of looseness will subside. Your orthodontist will closely monitor your progress to ensure that your teeth are moving as planned.

LOOSE WIRES AND BANDS

In the event that the wires or bands on your braces become loose, it is important to promptly contact our office. We will arrange for an evaluation to assess and repair your appliance as necessary. If any part of your appliance comes off, please remember to save it and bring it with you to your appointment. Our team will provide the appropriate assistance to ensure that your braces are properly maintained and functioning effectively.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR APPLIANCES

Taking good care of your appliances is crucial to avoid any delays in your treatment process. Damaged appliances can prolong the time needed to achieve your desired results. It is essential to follow your orthodontist's instructions and consistently wear the prescribed appliances, such as rubber bands, headgear, retainers, or any other appliances recommended for your specific treatment. By diligently using and maintaining these appliances, you can ensure that your teeth and jaw move into their correct positions as planned, helping you achieve your orthodontic goals in a timely manner.