All About Braces Care
How Do I Brush and Floss with Braces?
Brushing
- Brush for about two minutes after each meal using fluoride toothpaste
- Use gentle, small circular motions with the brush angled at 45 degrees
- A soft-bristled brush or electric toothbrush works best
- Focus on cleaning around brackets where plaque easily builds up
Flossing
- Floss daily to keep gums and teeth healthy
- Use an orthodontic flosser or floss threader to guide floss behind the wire
- Move the floss gently up and down along both sides of each tooth
Additional Gum Care for Adults
- Adults with a history of gum disease should also see a periodontist during orthodontic treatment
Flossing With Braces
- Flossing is essential to keep gums and teeth healthy
- Use an orthodontic flosser or floss threader to guide the floss behind the archwire and between the teeth
- Move it gently up and down along both sides of each tooth to remove debris and plaque
Additional Gum Care for Adults
Adults with a history of gum disease should consider seeing a periodontist while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
What Can I Eat with Braces?
One of the most common questions we hear is: “What can I eat with braces?” Let’s break it down.
During the First Few Days
- Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, pasta, or soups
- Avoid hard breads, raw vegetables, or tough meats while adjusting
Smart Eating Habits
- Cut food into smaller pieces
- Chew with your back teeth
- Eat slowly to avoid damaging brackets
- Avoid biting directly into hard foods
Foods to Avoid Entirely
- Chewy: bagels, licorice
- Crunchy: popcorn, ice
- Sticky: caramel, gum
- Hard: nuts, hard candy
- Biting-required: apples, raw carrots, corn on the cob
- Avoid chewing on pens, pencils, or fingernails
What Should I Expect with General Soreness?
- Mild soreness for 3–5 days after braces are placed or adjusted
- Take Tylenol or your usual pain reliever
- Lips, cheeks, and tongue may feel irritated for 1–2 weeks
- Use orthodontic wax on brackets causing irritation
Is It Normal for Teeth to Feel Loose During Treatment?
- Yes, teeth loosen slightly so they can move
- They will stabilize once treatment is complete
What Should I Do If a Wire or Band Comes Loose?
- Use a blunt object (like a pencil eraser) to gently tuck the wire under the archwire
- Use orthodontic wax or wet cotton to cover sharp or irritating areas
- Call our office to schedule a repair appointment
How Should I Wear My Rubber Bands?
- Wear rubber bands exactly as prescribed
- Consistency is key, teeth only move when rubber bands are worn as instructed
- Damaged or unused appliances can delay treatment time
Can I Play Sports with Braces?
- Yes! Just let us know what sport you play
- We’ll provide a protective mouthguard to keep your smile safe during contact activities
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces Care
Caring for your smile during orthodontic treatment can feel like a big adjustment, but you’re not alone. Here are some of the most common questions patients in our community ask as they get used to life with braces.
How long does it take to adjust to having braces?
Most patients feel fully adjusted within one to two weeks. During this time, your cheeks and lips are learning to glide over the brackets, and your bite is adapting. Using orthodontic wax and choosing softer foods can make the transition much smoother.
Can I still drink soda, sports drinks, or sparkling water with braces?
Yes, but in moderation. Sugary or acidic drinks can increase the risk of staining or cavities around brackets. If you choose to enjoy them, use a straw when possible and rinse with water afterward to help protect your enamel.
How do I know if a problem with my braces is an emergency?
Most braces issues, like loose wires or mild irritation, can wait until the next business day. True emergencies are rare but include severe pain, trauma to the mouth, or a wire causing injury that cannot be covered or repositioned. If you’re unsure, call our office and we’ll guide you.
Can I whiten my teeth while wearing braces?
It’s better to wait until your braces come off. Whitening products can lighten the exposed parts of your teeth but not the enamel covered by brackets, which may lead to uneven color. We’re happy to recommend whitening options once treatment is complete.
What happens if I break a bracket more than once?
Repeated breakage usually means something in your daily routine needs adjusting, whether it’s food choices, chewing habits, or sports equipment. We’ll help you figure out what’s causing the issue and make changes so treatment stays on track.