I Got My Braces. Now What?

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Greenberg Orthodontics & TMJ

Congratulations on getting your braces! Now that you're wearing braces, it's just as important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen as you did before orthodontic treatment began.

Oral Hygiene with Braces

Braces are known to trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or remove plaque, which is why orthodontists recommend that you brush and floss after every meal. We also encourage you to use a proxabrush to help with the smaller areas where your toothbrush doesn't reach. The use of fluoride rinse is also beneficial; ask your orthodontist for a recommendation.

Managing Initial Discomfort

When your braces are initially placed, your teeth are likely to be very sensitive. You may experience discomfort for up to 3 or 5 days, which is why we encourage you to eat soft foods during that time. Remember, the less pressure you put on your teeth, the less discomfort you will have.

Foods to Avoid with Braces

You may also be thinking, "Okay, so what can I eat?" We would encourage you to avoid eating sticky, hard, crunchy or chewy snacks that can stick to your teeth:

• Sticky foods (gum, caramel, taffy)
• Hard foods (nuts, ice, hard candy)
• Crunchy foods (popcorn, chips)
• Chewy foods (bagels, tough meats)
• Foods that require biting (corn on the cob, whole apples)

Monitoring Your Braces

It's crucial to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose or broken wire or bracket, contact your orthodontist immediately to schedule an appointment for repair.

Lastly, in addition to visiting your orthodontist during your orthodontic treatment for adjustments, you should visit your dentist for professional check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments about every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.