All About Braces Care and Oral Hygiene

When you have braces, keeping your teeth clean and healthy becomes even more important. Brackets and wires can make brushing and flossing a bit more challenging, so adjusting your daily routine is key.

At Smithtown Orthodontics, we help patients build simple habits that protect their teeth and gums throughout treatment. Good oral hygiene not only keeps your smile healthy, but also helps ensure your treatment stays on track.

Brushing and Flossing with Braces

Brushing

Brush your teeth after every meal for about two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. A powered toothbrush can also be helpful.

Be sure to:

Use gentle, circular motions
Clean around brackets and wires carefully
Brush all surfaces, front, back, and chewing areas

Taking a little extra time around your braces makes a big difference.

Flossing

Flossing is just as important, even though it takes a bit more effort with braces.

You can use:

A floss threader
Orthodontic floss
A water flosser for added convenience

Gently guide the floss between each tooth and under the gumline to remove plaque and food particles.

Simple Tips for a Healthy Smile

Use fluoride toothpaste to help prevent cavities
Rinse with an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash
Limit sugary and sticky foods
Keep up with regular dental cleanings

Small daily habits go a long way in protecting your smile during treatment.

Eating with Braces

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can damage your braces, so it’s best to stay away from:

Sticky foods like gum and caramel
Hard foods like nuts and hard candy
Crunchy snacks like popcorn and chips
Chewy foods like bagels and licorice
Foods you bite into directly like apples or corn on the cob

Foods You Can Enjoy

You can still enjoy plenty of delicious options, such as:

Soft dairy like yogurt, cheese, and milk
Pasta, rice, and soft breads
Tender meats, chicken, and seafood
Cooked vegetables and soft fruits like bananas
Treats like ice cream (without nuts), milkshakes, and soft cake

Also, avoid chewing on non-food items like pens or fingernails to prevent damage.

Adjusting to Life with Braces

Mild Soreness

It’s normal to feel some tenderness after getting braces or adjustments. This usually goes away after a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief, orthodontic wax, or rinsing with warm salt water can help.

Teeth Feeling Loose

As your teeth begin to move, they may feel slightly loose. This is completely normal and part of the process.

Loose Wires or Irritation

If a wire or bracket becomes uncomfortable, you can use orthodontic wax to ease irritation. If something feels out of place, contact our office and we’ll guide you on the next steps.

Rubber Bands & Appliances

If you’re given rubber bands or other appliances, it’s important to wear them as instructed. Consistency helps your treatment stay on schedule and ensures the best results.

Playing Sports with Braces

You can absolutely continue playing sports while wearing braces. We recommend using a protective mouthguard to help keep your teeth and appliances safe.

If you experience an injury:

Check for damage
Rinse with warm salt water if needed
Contact our office for guidance