Helpful Tips about Braces

So you’ve just got your braces on – Congratulations! You are on your way to a healthy, spectacular smile! There are a few things that you can do to make sure you and your braces become great friends; Like any relationship, it’s all about showing that you care (and maybe a little compromise too.) Here are a few tips to ensure that your relationship gets off to a good start:

  1. Avoid hard and sticky foods: Nothing hurts your braces more than hard and sticky foods (and we never want to hurt our friends). Sticky and hard foods can break a bracket or wire. Broken brackets and wires can be uncomfortable. Frequently broken brackets can take a toll by increasing time in braces. It’s best to forgo caramel, gum and other sticky treats. Hard candy, ice, nuts, popcorn and thick chips should also be avoided.
  2. Chew with your back teeth: Taking a large bite of food with your front teeth will put a lot of pressure on your braces leaving them vulnerable to damage. Get into the habit of cutting large foods into pieces and using your back teeth to chew; cut apples into slices and corn off the cob. Hard bread like bagels and pizza crust should be broken into bite-size pieces before eating.
  3. Wear your rubber bands and headgear: Rubber bands, headgear and other orthodontic appliances may seem annoying. But, failing to comply with wearing them can increase the length of your treatment by months! When asked to wear rubber bands and appliances make sure you wear them as instructed to ensure that your time in braces doesn’t have to go longer than necessary. (We know that you and your braces have become great friends, but all good things must come to an end, including your time in braces. )
  4. Floss and brush: Flossing and brushing are the best way to show your braces that you care. Brush for two minutes after every time you eat to safeguard against stains and decay. Be sure to floss once a day. Yes, it can be a pain to floss around your braces, but it’s the best way to prevent gum disease and other oral health problems. When you started treatment you received a ‘floss threader’ to make the chore easier. Just a few minutes a day will ensure that you don’t face significant dental health issues when the braces come off.

Follow these tips to make sure your relationship with your braces is carefree and easy. If you have any questions or concerns about your braces give us a call or ask at your next appointment.