How to Care for Braces – Cleburne, TX

Foods You Can Eat with Braces

You’ve heard the saying, “you are what you eat.” This applies to more than just your waistline. Your diet also influences your dental health. It’s best to maintain a balanced diet with foods that include:

• Dairy
• Breads and grains
• Meats and poultry
• Seafood
• Fruits and vegetables

Foods to Avoid with Braces

Certain foods increase the likeliness of a broken bracket or wire. Not to mention, some can be difficult to remove from your braces. It’s best to avoid:

• Chewy foods
• Crunchy foods
• Sticky foods
• Hard foods
• Foods that require biting into

Soreness from Braces

It’s normal for your mouth to be a bit sore after your braces are put on or an adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage your discomfort. It’s also best to eat softer foods until the pain subsides. If you develop any irritation to the inside of your lips or cheeks, apply wax to the surfaces to add a protective barrier.

Loose Teeth

As your teeth move, they may feel a bit loose, but they will tighten back up after they are in their ideal positions.

Brushing

You’ll need to commit more time to brushing your teeth to clean under the wires and around the brackets. You’ll also need to floss your teeth nightly. It’s best to improve your oral hygiene habits while wearing braces to prevent white spots on your teeth.

Playing Sports with Braces

You can play sports with braces; however, be sure to wear an athletic mouthguard to provide a protective barrier for your teeth, gums, oral tissues, and your braces.

Braces Myths

You’ve probably heard a few misconceptions about braces, but don’t let that deter you from a straight smile. Here are the facts you need to know about common myths:

• Braces cannot rust.
• Yes, you can still play a musical instrument.
• If you kiss someone who has braces, they will not get locked together.
• Your braces will not set off metal detectors.

How to Care for Braces & Retainers

Wire Poking and Irritation

Use a pencil eraser or Q-tip to push the wire into a better position and apply a piece of wax to the end.

Loose Wire

Reinsert the wire using a pair of needle-nose pliers or tweezers.

Spacer Fell Out

Take two pieces of dental floss and insert them through the spacer. Pull the floss to stretch the spacer and slide it into place.

Loose Bracket

Use tweezers to reposition the bracket.

Appliance Breaks

Save the piece and contact our office.

Pain or Discomfort

Take an over-the-counter pain reliever to manage your discomfort.

If you have any questions about life with braces, don’t hesitate to contact our office to speak with a member of our team.