All About Braces
At Embrace Orthodontics, Dr. Dima Kalakech helps patients understand what to expect with braces and how to care for them throughout treatment. Braces are an important step toward a healthy, confident smile, and proper care ensures the best possible results.
Taking the time to follow instructions and maintain good oral hygiene will help keep your teeth and gums healthy while your smile is being transformed.
How Do I Brush and Floss with Braces?
It’s more important than ever to brush and floss regularly while wearing braces. Keeping your teeth clean helps prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum issues during treatment.
Patients who do not maintain good oral hygiene may need more frequent professional cleanings. Adults with a history of gum disease may also benefit from seeing a periodontist during orthodontic care.
What Can I Eat with Braces?
Adjusting your diet is an important part of protecting your braces. For the first few days, it’s best to stick with soft foods while your mouth adjusts.
As treatment continues, you can return to more foods, but certain items should still be avoided to prevent damage.
What Foods Should I Avoid with Braces?
- Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
- Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
- Sticky foods: caramels, gum
- Hard foods: nuts, hard candy
- Foods you bite into: apples, carrots, corn on the cob
Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens or fingernails, as this can damage your braces and delay treatment.
Is It Normal to Feel Soreness with Braces?
Yes, it’s normal to experience some soreness after getting braces or adjustments. Teeth may feel tender for a few days.
Over-the-counter pain relief, such as Tylenol, can help manage discomfort. Lips, cheeks, and tongue may also feel irritated at first, but this improves as your mouth adjusts. Orthodontic wax can help reduce irritation.
Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose?
Some loosening of teeth during treatment is completely normal. Teeth must loosen slightly in order to move into their new positions.
Once treatment is complete, teeth will stabilize and become firm again.
What Should I Do If a Wire or Band Becomes Loose?
If a wire or band becomes loose, don’t worry. This can happen occasionally during treatment.
If a wire is irritating your mouth, gently push it into place using the eraser end of a pencil. You can also use orthodontic wax to reduce irritation. Be sure to contact our office so we can repair the issue.
Why Is Wearing Rubber Bands Important?
Wearing rubber bands as instructed is essential for successful treatment. These help guide your teeth and jaws into their correct positions.
Not wearing rubber bands as directed or damaging appliances can extend your treatment time, so it’s important to follow instructions carefully.
Can I Play Sports with Braces?
Yes. If you play sports, it’s important to wear a protective mouthguard, especially during contact sports, to protect your teeth and braces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Braces come with a learning curve, and it’s normal to have questions. Here are answers to common concerns.
Do Braces Hurt When They Are First Put On?
You may feel mild pressure or soreness for a few days after getting braces or after adjustments. This is normal and usually goes away quickly as your teeth begin to move.
How Often Will I Need to Visit the Orthodontist?
Most patients visit every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments and progress checks. These appointments are important to keep your treatment on track.
Can I Still Drink Soda or Sugary Drinks with Braces?
It’s best to limit sugary and acidic drinks, as they can increase the risk of cavities and staining around brackets. Drinking water is always the safest option.
What Happens If I Don’t Follow Instructions During Treatment?
Not following instructions, such as skipping rubber bands or eating restricted foods, can delay your progress and extend treatment time.
Will Braces Affect My Speech?
Some patients may notice slight changes in speech at first, but this is temporary. Most people adjust within a few days as they get used to their braces.