All About Braces and Oral Hygiene
Starting orthodontic treatment is a big step, and it comes with a few adjustments to your daily routine. From brushing techniques and food choices to handling soreness and staying on track, here’s everything you need to know about life with braces.
Brushing and Flossing with Braces
Braces make it easier for food and plaque to hide, which is why maintaining excellent oral hygiene is more important than ever during treatment.
Tips for Keeping Your Smile Clean:
- Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to help protect your enamel.
- Floss once a day using floss threaders or orthodontic flossers.
- Add a water flosser to your routine for extra plaque removal.
If you have a history of gum disease, consider seeing a periodontist during treatment to monitor gum health and prevent complications.
Eating with Braces
One of the first things new patients ask is, “What can I eat with braces?” While you’ll want to avoid certain foods that can damage your brackets or wires, there are still plenty of tasty options.
Great Foods Right After Getting Braces or an Adjustment
These softer foods can help you stay comfortable as your mouth adjusts:
- Creamy polenta or grits
- Soft rice dishes
- Cooked squash or zucchini
- Applesauce
- Cottage cheese
- Pancakes or waffles (without crunchy toppings)
What Foods You Should Avoid with Braces?
To protect your brackets and wires, steer clear of foods that are hard, sticky, crunchy, or chewy.
- Chewy: Baguettes, beef jerky, gummy candies
- Crunchy: Ice, kettle chips, hard taco shells
- Sticky: Taffy, caramel popcorn, sticky granola bars
- Hard: Nuts, jawbreakers, frozen fruit pieces
- Biting into: Raw carrots, whole apples, corn on the cob
Smart Substitutions:
- Cut corn off the cob
- Slice apples or pears into thin pieces
- Steam or roast veggies to soften them
- Break hard foods into small, chewable bites
- Skip chewing ice or pens to prevent breakage
How to Manage Soreness and Discomfort?
Orthodontic studies confirm that soft gum chewing is an effective method to relieve orthodontic pain and sensitivity. The studies show that gum chewing is as effective in reducing orthodontic pain as taking Tylenol or Advil. Begin chewing gum immediately after your orthodontic appointment, prior to feeling any pain.
Some mild discomfort is completely normal when you first get braces or after adjustments.
- Sore or tender teeth for 3–5 days
- Irritation on the cheeks, lips, or tongue for 1–2 weeks
Use over-the-counter pain relievers (like Tylenol) and apply orthodontic wax over brackets or wires that cause irritation. We’ll provide wax at your appointment and show you how to use it.
Is Your Tooth Moving and Feeling “Loose”?
Your teeth may feel slightly loose throughout treatment, but that’s a good sign! Movement is necessary for them to shift into their ideal positions. Once treatment is complete, your teeth will stabilize and feel secure again.
What to Do If a Wire or Bracket Comes Loose
If a wire or band becomes loose or starts to poke:
- Use a pencil eraser to gently push it back into place.
- Apply orthodontic wax or a small piece of damp cotton to reduce irritation.
- Call our office as soon as possible so we can make any needed repairs.
Avoid making major adjustments at home unless instructed by your Dr. Frederick Sacramone.
Wearing Rubber Bands (Elastics)
Elastics play a key role in correcting jaw alignment. To get the best results:
- Wear them exactly as prescribed
- Change them regularly to maintain proper tension
- Let us know if you run out, we’re happy to give you more
Skipping elastics or wearing them inconsistently can delay your treatment.
Playing Sports with Mouthguards
If you’re involved in sports, especially contact sports like basketball, soccer, or hockey, let us know. We’ll provide a custom-fit mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces during games and practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting braces or Invisalign comes with a learning curve, and it’s completely normal to have questions along the way. Patients often search for practical, everyday guidance on soreness, loose teeth, broken brackets, and staying comfortable during treatment. Below are some of the most common questions we hear at Sacramone Orthodontics to help you feel confident throughout your orthodontic journey.
How long does braces soreness usually last?
Most patients feel mild tenderness for a few days after getting braces or after an adjustment. The good news is that discomfort typically improves quickly as your mouth adapts.
What is the fastest way to relieve orthodontic pain?
Simple steps like chewing soft sugar-free gum, eating softer foods, and using over-the-counter pain relief can make a big difference. Many patients find that staying ahead of soreness right after an appointment helps the most.
Is it normal for teeth to feel loose during braces treatment?
Yes, it’s completely normal. Teeth may feel slightly loose because they are actively moving into healthier positions. Once treatment is complete, they will stabilize and feel firm again.
What should I do if my braces are rubbing or irritating my cheeks?
Irritation is common early on. Orthodontic wax can be placed over brackets or wires to create a smooth barrier while your mouth adjusts. Our team will always show you how to use it.
Why are rubber bands so important with braces?
Elastics help guide your bite and jaw alignment. Wearing them exactly as prescribed is one of the best ways to stay on schedule and achieve the best final results.