All About Braces Care
Getting braces is the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. While braces do an excellent job of straightening teeth, they also come with a few simple lifestyle adjustments. Below, you’ll find helpful tips for caring for your braces and keeping treatment on track.
How Do I Brush and Floss with Braces?
Oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment. Braces make it more challenging to clean around teeth, so extra care is essential to prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum problems. In some cases, patients who have difficulty maintaining oral hygiene may require more frequent professional cleanings at the dentist.
Brush after every meal, paying close attention to the brackets and wires.
Floss daily using floss threaders or orthodontic floss picks.
Adults with a history of periodontal concerns should continue visits with a periodontist during treatment.
What Can I Eat with Braces?
A common question we hear is: “What can I eat with braces?” The answer is simple: enjoy softer foods, especially after adjustments, and be mindful of protecting your appliances at each meal.
During the first few days, stick to softer foods like yogurt, pasta, or smoothies.
Avoid hard, chewy, and sticky foods that can break brackets.
Once you’ve adjusted, you’ll be able to eat most foods again —with a little extra care.
Which Foods Should I Avoid with Braces?
To help protect your braces and keep treatment on track, it’s important to avoid certain foods:
Chewy foods: bagels, licorice
Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
Sticky foods: gum, caramel
Hard foods: nuts, candy
Foods you bite into: whole apples, raw carrots, corn on the cob (cut these into smaller pieces instead)
Chewing on pens, pencils, or fingernails can also damage braces. Breakage can delay progress and may require additional appointments, as well as extend your treatment time, so taking a little extra care goes a long way.
Is It Normal to Feel Soreness with Braces?
It’s normal to feel some soreness when braces are first placed. Teeth may be tender to biting pressure for 3–5 days, and the lips, cheeks, and tongue can be irritated for a week or two as your mouth adjusts.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen can help manage discomfort.
Orthodontic wax can be placed over brackets or wires to reduce irritation.
Give it time: Soreness will gradually improve as your mouth adapts.
Loosening of Teeth
It may feel surprising to notice some looseness in your teeth, but this is completely normal during orthodontic treatment. Teeth must loosen slightly to move, and they will firm up again once treatment is finished.
What Should I Do If a Wire or Bracket Comes Loose?
If a wire or bracket comes loose, don’t worry- this sometimes happens.
Use the eraser end of a pencil to gently guide the wire back in place.
Apply orthodontic wax or wet cotton to reduce irritation.
Call our office to schedule a repair appointment as soon as you notice a problem.
Elastic Wear
Orthodontic treatment is a team effort between you and Dr. Susan Korch. Rubber bands and other appliances only work when worn as instructed. Consistent wear keeps your treatment on track, while missed wear can slow progress and extend treatment time.
Athletics and Braces
Playing sports? Let us know so we can recommend a protective mouthguard. Wearing a mouthguard helps prevent injuries and protects your braces during contact activities. We can provide a temporary option to get you started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Caring for braces properly helps keep treatment on track, reduce unexpected issues, and support a smooth overall experience. Many patients and parents have questions about everyday life with braces beyond brushing and eating. These FAQs provide helpful guidance to keep your orthodontic journey comfortable, confident, and successful.
Are there specific toothbrushes or tools that make braces care easier for teens and adults?
Yes. Many patients find electric toothbrushes, interdental brushes, and water flossers helpful for cleaning around brackets and wires more efficiently.
How do I prevent white spots or staining while wearing braces?
White spots are caused by poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup. Using fluoride toothpaste, limiting sugary snacks, and avoiding sugary, acidic, or carbonated drinks-along with regular dental cleanings-can help reduce the risk.
Is it safe to chew sugar-free gum with braces?
We do not recommend chewing gum during orthodontic treatment with braces. Staying consistent with your care will help you get back to enjoying it once your braces come off.
Do I still need to see my regular dentist during orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Since orthodontists focus on straightening your teeth and aligning your bite, regular dental visits for exams, cleanings and cavity care are essential during orthodontic treatment.
Can braces treatment be delayed if I have upcoming travel, school events, or sports seasons?
Yes. We can often plan treatment start dates around important events and will do our best to accommodate your schedule for a smooth start.
