All About Braces

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. With braces, brushing and flossing effectively is more challenging, so it’s important to adjust your habits to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here are key points to remember:

Regular brushing and flossing: Brush after every meal and floss at least once a day.
Use of specialized tools: Consider using interdental brushes, floss threaders, or water flossers for thorough cleaning.
Professional cleanings: Patients who struggle with oral hygiene may need more frequent professional cleanings.
Consultation with a periodontist: Adults with a history of gum disease should also consult a periodontist during treatment.

Watch our instructional videos below for tips on braces care:

Eating with Braces

Eating with braces requires some adjustments to avoid discomfort and prevent damage.

Check out our video for essential tips on what to eat and what to avoid:

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can damage braces and prolong treatment time:

Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
Sticky foods: caramels, gum
Hard foods: nuts, candy
Foods requiring biting into corn on the cob, apples, carrots
Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens or pencils, as this can also damage braces.

Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens or pencils, as this can also damage braces.

General Soreness

It’s normal to experience some soreness after getting braces or adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil can help manage discomfort.

Dealing with Loose Wires

Occasionally, wires may become loose or irritating. Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges or gently push the wire back under the archwire using a blunt instrument, like the eraser end of a pencil. If the issue persists, contact our office for assistance.

Loosening of Teeth

Feeling a slight looseness in your teeth is a common part of the orthodontic process as your teeth shift into their new positions.

Athletics

If you’re involved in sports, taking precautions is crucial to protect your teeth and braces from potential injuries. Here are key steps to ensure your safety:

Wear a Mouth Guard: Always use a mouth guard designed for orthodontic patients to shield your teeth and braces during sports activities.
Consult Your Orthodontist: Seek guidance from Dr. Chaghouri on the mouth guard suitable for your braces.