Getting braces is an exciting step toward achieving a healthier, straighter smile. However, caring for your braces properly is essential to ensure a smooth orthodontic journey. With the right habits, you can protect your braces, maintain excellent oral hygiene, and avoid complications. Follow these expert tips to make your braces experience as seamless as possible.

Foods to Avoid While Wearing Braces

One of the first adjustments is making mindful food choices. Certain foods can damage your braces or make cleaning challenging.

Avoid these foods to protect your braces:

• Sticky or chewy treats: Gum, caramel, and toffee can stick to brackets and wires.
• Crunchy snacks: Popcorn, nuts, and chips can cause brackets to break.
• Hard foods: Apples, carrots, and bagels should be cut into smaller pieces to prevent damage.
• Sugary treats: Minimize candies and desserts to reduce the risk of cavities.

Sticking to soft, braces-friendly foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups will keep your orthodontic treatment on track.

Effective Cleaning Tools 

Braces create extra surfaces for food and plaque to cling to, making oral hygiene more important than ever. Invest in these tools to keep your teeth and braces clean:

• Soft-bristled toothbrush: A regular or electric toothbrush with soft bristles effectively cleans around brackets.
• Interdental brushes: These small, pointed brushes can reach under wires and between teeth.
• Floss threaders or water flossers: These tools make it easier to clean between teeth and around braces.
• Mouthwash: An antibacterial rinse helps reduce plaque and keep your gums healthy.

Make sure to brush after every meal and floss at least once daily.

Dealing with Common Issues

Minor issues are normal, but knowing how to handle them can prevent discomfort or delays in treatment.

• Broken brackets or wires: If a bracket or wire breaks, use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges and contact your orthodontist for a repair.
• Irritated cheeks and gums: Orthodontic wax can also be used to protect soft tissues from rubbing against brackets.
• Food stuck in braces: Use an interdental brush or floss threader to gently remove debris.

For any persistent problems, schedule an appointment with your orthodontist right away.

Maintaining a Healthy Smile During Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is a journey, and maintaining good habits will lead to successful results. Avoiding foods, investing in proper cleaning tools, and addressing minor issues promptly can make a big difference.

If you’re in St. Catharines and have questions about care, the team at Pavilion Dentistry is here to help. Contact us today to ensure your experience is as smooth as possible.