Braces are a significant step towards achieving a healthy, beautiful smile, but they also require some adjustment in your daily routine. Learning to care for your braces will not only protect your investment but also ensure a comfortable and effective treatment experience.
So today we’re going to talk about tips for new braces wearers.
Whether you’ve just started your orthodontic journey or are preparing for it, these tips will help you take excellent care of your new braces.
Essential Tips for New Braces Wearers
Caring for your braces begins with developing a solid oral hygiene routine and understanding what foods to enjoy—and avoid. When it comes to tips for new braces wearers, here are some essential ones to remember:
1. Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Brushing and flossing take on a whole new level of importance when you have braces. Follow these steps to keep your teeth and braces clean:
- Brush After Every Meal: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush at a 45-degree angle, cleaning above and below the brackets thoroughly to remove food particles and plaque.
- Use Interdental Brushes: Small, cone-shaped brushes can help remove debris from hard-to-reach spaces around wires and brackets.
- Floss Daily: Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss picks to get between braces and clean your teeth effectively.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: Add an antiseptic mouthwash to your routine to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain healthy gums.
2. Foods to Avoid for Better Braces Care
Certain foods can damage braces or get stuck in the wires and brackets. Here’s what to steer clear of:
- Hard Foods: Avoid nuts, popcorn, ice, hard candies, and raw carrots.
- Sticky Treats: Say no to taffy, caramel, and chewing gum, as they can stick to braces and be hard to remove.
- Chewy Foods: Bagels, tough bread, and similar textures can strain your braces.
Opt for softer alternatives like bananas, yogurt, steamed veggies, and pasta to make eating with braces easier.
3. Attend Routine Appointments
Regular visits to your orthodontist are essential for braces wearers. They’ll check the condition of your braces, make necessary adjustments, and monitor your progress. Missing appointments can slow down progress or cause discomfort in your mouth.
It’s also important to follow any instructions given by your orthodontist, such as wearing rubber bands or headgear. These are crucial in achieving the desired results and should not be ignored.
4. Take Care of Discomfort
Braces can sometimes cause discomfort or irritation in your mouth. If this happens, use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges on wires or brackets. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can also help with soreness.
It’s normal to experience some discomfort when first getting braces or after adjustments, but if it persists, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist for assistance.
Following these simple tips and tricks for braces will make a world of difference in your orthodontic treatment process.
Hacks for a Comfortable Braces Experience
Getting braces can be uncomfortable at times, especially when they’re first placed or adjusted. Here are some hacks for a more comfortable experience:
Alleviating Discomfort with Wax and Saltwater Rinses
- Orthodontic Wax: Use wax to cover brackets or wires that irritate the inside of your cheeks or lips. Your orthodontist will likely provide you with wax at your appointment.
- Saltwater Rinses: Soothe sore spots in your mouth by rinsing with a glass of warm water mixed with half a teaspoon of salt.
Staying Prepared with a Braces Care Kit
Keep a small braces care kit handy to handle emergencies or discomfort on the go. Include the following items:
- Orthodontic wax
- A compact toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste
- Interdental brushes or floss picks
- Pain relievers for unexpected soreness
- A small mirror for easy inspection of braces
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your treatment stays on track and your smile stays healthy.
Skipping Regular Cleaning Routines
Your braces can’t do their job properly if your teeth and gums are neglected. Skipping cleaning can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and even gum disease.
Make it a habit to clean your teeth thoroughly every single day.
Ignoring Damaged Wires or Brackets
If a wire or bracket becomes loose or breaks, contact your orthodontist right away. Ignoring these problems can delay your treatment and cause more discomfort.
Temporary fixes, like covering a poking wire with wax, can help while waiting for an appointment.
A Winning Smile with Dr. Catherine Scheurer McDevitt
At A Winning Smile Orthodontics, Dr. Catherine Scheurer McDevitt prioritizes patient care and is committed to creating healthy, confident smiles in Worthington and Columbus, Ohio. With over 20 years of experience, she offers a range of personalized orthodontic services, including:
- Traditional braces for effective, reliable results.
- Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® for a virtually invisible option.
- Ceramic braces for those who seek a more discreet alternative.
Each patient receives personalized attention and a tailored treatment plan to meet their unique dental needs and goals. With a combination of experience, compassionate care, and state-of-the-art technologies, Dr. McDevitt and her team ensure every patient feels supported throughout their orthodontic journey.
If you’re in the Worthington or Columbus area, reach out to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards your dream smile.
Keep Smiling Bright!
Braces are an essential step toward achieving a healthier, more radiant smile. While the process may require adjustments to your daily routine, following proper care and maintenance ensures successful treatment and long-lasting results.
Remember to stick to your cleaning routine, avoid foods that can damage your braces, and stay proactive in addressing any discomfort with the help of your orthodontist.
For anyone just beginning their orthodontic treatment, these tips for new braces wearers can help make the experience easier and more comfortable.
For expert advice and the best orthodontic care, book an appointment with A Winning Smile Orthodontics today. Happy smiling!
