Orthodontic treatments like braces or aligners can sometimes cause discomfort or even a bit of pain, and that’s completely normal. If you’re in too much pain, you might be tempted to skip wearing your aligners or avoid certain foods, which could delay your progress. So, how to stop braces pain? Make sure to use pain relievers such as Tylenol (which doesn’t delay tooth movement), drink cold liquids, apply orthodontic wax on any irritating brackets, and maintain a soft food diet when necessary.

When we move those pearly whites into their proper positions, it can put a bit of pressure on your gums and teeth. This can lead to tenderness, especially after the braces are adjusted. But don’t worry, this discomfort usually subsides within a few days. Managing this pain effectively is super important, not just for your comfort, but also to keep your treatment on track. If you are asking yourself “Do Braces Hurt?”, click the link to find out more detailed information. Remember, it’s all part of the journey to achieving that beautiful, straight smile!

1. Understanding Braces Pain

Pain occurs because braces work by applying a constant pressure on your teeth to gradually move them into their proper positions. As Dr. Mo Zainal, an expert orthodontist in Colleyville, TX, points out, this pressure causes your gums and teeth to feel sore or sensitive, especially in the first few days after getting your braces or after adjustments.. The same goes when you get them tightened, as the orthodontist is increasing the pressure to continue guiding your teeth to their new locations. But don’t worry, this discomfort is completely normal and temporary.

Your mouth will soon adjust to the braces, and the soreness will fade. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relievers or a soft foods diet can help ease any discomfort.

2. Immediate Relief Techniques

Using an ice pack, drink cold ice water and eat cold foods to numb the area and reduce inflammation and tooth soreness

When braces are adjusted, they can sometimes cause your teeth and gums to feel sore. Applying a cold compress externally to the affected area can help to numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Similarly, drinking cold water or eating cold foods like ice cream can provide a soothing effect, relieving the soreness from the inside. It’s a simple and effective remedy that can provide instant relief. Always remember, though, if the pain persists, it’s best to consult with your orthodontist to ensure everything is okay.

Rinsing the mouth with salt water to alleviate soreness on cheeks

When you first get your braces, it’s common to experience some discomfort. A salt water rinse can help soothe your mouth and reduce inflammation. It’s like giving your mouth a warm hug! Just mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth gently. Do this up to 4 times a day, especially after meals. It’s a simple, natural remedy that can make a big difference in your comfort.

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by the orthodontist can help relieve tooth soreness

Indeed, the utilization of over-the-counter pain relievers, as prescribed by a qualified orthodontist, can significantly mitigate tooth discomfort caused by braces. These medications typically contain anti-inflammatory properties that effectively alleviate the pressure exerted by the braces on the teeth and gums, thereby reducing the associated pain and discomfort. However, it is crucial to strictly adhere to the orthodontist’s instructions regarding the dosage and frequency of these medications to avoid potential side effects. Therefore, while the braces work towards aligning your teeth, over-the-counter pain relievers can provide the much-needed relief from the accompanying soreness.

Applying orthodontic wax to smooth out rough edges can relief cheek soreness

When you first get braces, your mouth might not be used to the new addition, causing a bit of discomfort. But don’t worry, it’s totally normal and temporary. Orthodontic wax acts like a barrier, protecting the inside of your cheeks and lips from the metal brackets and wires. It’s super easy to apply and it creates a smooth surface, reducing irritation and making your braces more comfortable. So, if your braces are causing you some discomfort, orthodontic wax might just be your new best friend!

3. Long-Term Pain Management

Managing long-term pain following the installation of braces can be approached in several effective ways. It’s crucial to follow your orthodontist’s instructions for wearing braces, as this will ensure the best results and minimize discomfort. Opting for softer foods can also significantly lessen the pain when chewing. If you experience swelling, using an ice pack can help reduce it and numb the area, providing temporary relief.

Additionally, regular brushing of your teeth and gums is essential to prevent further irritation and maintain good oral hygiene. Remember, these steps will make your journey with braces much more comfortable!

4. When and how to consult the orthodontist for severe or persistent pain?

If you’re experiencing severe or persistent pain in your mouth or teeth, it’s essential to consult an orthodontist as soon as possible. Don’t try to tough it out, your comfort and health are too important! You can get in touch with your orthodontist by giving them a call, sending an email, or even scheduling an appointment online if that’s an option. When you contact them, describe your pain as accurately as you can: its intensity, location, and how long it’s been going on. This will help them understand your situation better. Remember, it’s their job to help you feel better, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you’re in discomfort.

5. Types of Braces and Pain

Pain related to braces it can vary depending on the type you choose. Most modern metal braces have a low profile and are more comfortable than most ceramic ones, that can be bulkier and have less rounded edges, thus being more uncomfortable for the cheeks.

Lingual braces, placed behind your teeth, might cause a bit more soreness on the tongue at the beginning because of their location. But don’t worry, the pain is manageable! Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help ease any discomfort. Also, a soft food diet can be beneficial during the first few days after an adjustment. Remember, everyone’s experience is different, so it’s important to communicate with your orthodontist about your pain levels. They can provide personalized advice and solutions.

FAQ

Help. I’m having excruciating pain with my braces.

I’m really sorry to hear that you’re experiencing such discomfort with your braces. It’s not uncommon to feel some pain after getting braces or after adjustments, but if it’s excruciating, it might be a good idea to reach out to your orthodontist. They can check if everything is okay and might be able to adjust your braces to reduce discomfort. In the meantime, try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water and taking over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen. Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that might be causing irritation. Hang in there, the initial discomfort usually subsides after a few days.

How to make my spacers stop hurting?

I’m really sorry to hear that your spacers are causing you discomfort. The pain usually subsides after a few days as your mouth gets used to them. In the meantime, you can try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water or taking over-the-counter pain relievers to help with the discomfort. Eating soft foods can also help, as hard or sticky foods can exacerbate the pain. If the pain persists or becomes unbearable, it’s important to contact your orthodontist right away. They may be able to adjust the spacers or offer other solutions to alleviate the pain. Remember, it’s just a temporary phase and you’ll soon get used to them!

How do you deal with pain from power chain braces?

Addressing the discomfort that can arise from power chain braces requires a multifaceted approach. Initially, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be utilized to mitigate the acute discomfort following the braces’ adjustment. Topical oral anesthetics are also beneficial as they numb the affected area, providing temporary relief. Regular use of dental wax can help alleviate discomfort from the braces rubbing against the inside of the mouth. Moreover, maintaining a diet consisting of soft foods can lessen the strain on the teeth during chewing, thereby reducing pain. Lastly, practicing good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, can prevent inflammation and soreness caused by food particles trapped in the braces. Should the pain persist or intensify, it is advisable to consult with your orthodontist to ensure there are no underlying issues.

How to treat pain produced by the rubber bands in braces?

The discomfort or pain induced by the rubber bands in braces can be managed through various methods. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be utilized to alleviate the discomfort. It is also recommended to rinse the mouth with warm salt water, as this can soothe the irritated gums and mouth tissues. Chilled foods and beverages can also provide relief by numbing the area. The application of a topical oral anesthetic gel, available at most pharmacies, can also help to numb the area and reduce pain. However, if the pain persists or intensifies, it is advisable to consult with your orthodontist to ensure the braces are properly adjusted and not causing unnecessary discomfort.

How do you get rid of braces sores?

Braces sores, also known as ulcers, can be quite discomforting. They can be managed effectively through several means. First, a dental wax may be applied to the braces, creating a smooth surface that reduces friction between the braces and the mouth’s interior. Secondly, over-the-counter oral gels or ointments can be used to soothe the sores and speed up the healing process. Regular saltwater rinses can also aid in alleviating discomfort and promoting healing. However, if the sores persist, it is prudent to consult a dental professional for further evaluation and treatment. It is essential to understand that these methods do not eliminate braces but rather manage the discomfort associated with them.

Does heat help braces pain?

Absolutely, heat can indeed be a helpful remedy for relieving braces pain! Using a warm compress or even sipping on a warm beverage can often help to reduce discomfort and inflammation. The warmth helps to relax the oral muscles and alleviate tension around the brackets and wires of your braces. Just remember, while heat can be a great help, if the pain persists or becomes too much to handle, it’s always a good idea to reach out to your orthodontist.

So, finding out what to eat with braces the first week can be a bit challenging as your mouth adjusts to the new hardware. It’s really important to maintain a braces-friendly diet during this time to prevent any discomfort, damage to the braces, and to ensure a smoother transition. Eating soft foods like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies can help ease any initial soreness.

Cold foods can help relieve soreness. Also, avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods prevents any unwanted pressure on the braces or risk of breaking them. Remember, a well-balanced, nutritious diet also promotes quicker healing and can even reduce the overall time you need to wear your braces.

What to Eat with Braces the First Week

Cold foods that can promote relief to teeth and cheek soreness

Cold foods can indeed provide relief to teeth and cheek soreness. Consuming cold foods such as ice cream, yogurt, or frozen fruits can alleviate discomfort by numbing the affected area and reducing inflammation. Moreover, foods with high water content like cucumbers or watermelons can also promote healing and provide relief due to their cooling effect. However, it is essential to remember that these remedies are temporary and consulting with a healthcare professional is necessary for persistent pain or discomfort. The soothing effect of these cold foods can provide immediate relief, but they should not replace professional dental care.

Soft foods that require minimal chewing

Soft foods that require minimal chewing encompass a variety of options suitable for individuals with oral health issues or those recovering from dental procedures. These include foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. In addition, soups, broths, and stews can be consumed, provided they are pureed or finely chopped. Cooked vegetables and fruits, ripe bananas, and avocados are also suitable due to their soft texture. Moreover, protein can be obtained from sources such as tofu, finely chopped or ground meats, and well-cooked legumes. It is important to ensure that these foods are prepared appropriately to maintain their soft texture and minimize the need for extensive chewing.

Foods that are easy to chew and won’t cause discomfort

Foods that are easy to chew and won’t cause discomfort are typically soft, well-cooked, or pureed. Examples of such foods include ripe bananas, applesauce, cooked cereals like oatmeal, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, soft boiled eggs, and pureed meats or soups. These foods are not only gentle on the teeth and gums, but they also require less effort to chew and swallow. They are particularly recommended for individuals experiencing oral discomfort or difficulty in swallowing, such as those recovering from oral surgery or suffering from certain medical conditions. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

Cooking vegetables to make them softer and easier to eat

Cooking vegetables is a common practice that not only enhances their taste but also makes them softer and easier to consume. The process of cooking breaks down the tough cell walls of the vegetables, thereby making them more palatable and easier to digest. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with certain digestive issues or dental problems, as softer foods cause less strain on the digestive system and teeth. Moreover, cooking can also increase the bioavailability of certain nutrients, making it easier for the body to absorb them. Therefore, cooking vegetables is a practical method to improve their texture, digestibility, and nutritional absorption.

Opting for small-sized food portions

Opting for small-sized food portions can be a highly effective strategy for maintaining a balanced diet and promoting overall health. Dr. Granit Morina, a top-rated orthodontist in Leominster and Gardner, MA, explains that cutting food into bite-sized pieces makes it easier to chew and reduces the risk of putting unnecessary pressure on braces, helping to protect the hardware and ensure successful treatment. Consuming smaller portions can assist in regulating calorie intake, preventing overeating, and managing weight. It encourages mindful eating and allows for a diverse range of nutrients to be incorporated into one’s diet. Moreover, it can also aid in controlling blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. Therefore, the choice of smaller food portions can be a crucial element in fostering healthier eating habits and lifestyle.

Foods that won’t damage braces or cause them to tighten

Certain foods are recommended for those wearing braces as they are less likely to cause damage or induce unintentional tightening. Soft foods are generally safe, including dairy products such as cheese and yogurt, as well as soft fruits like bananas and berries. Cooked vegetables, soft grains, pasta, and tender meats can also be consumed with minimal risk. Additionally, smoothies and soups are not only gentle on braces but also provide a variety of important nutrients. It is advisable to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods such as popcorn, nuts, hard candies, and chewing gum, as these can potentially cause damage to the braces’ structure.

Importance of knowing what foods to eat to support orthodontic treatment

Understanding the appropriate foods to consume during orthodontic treatment is of paramount importance for several reasons. Primarily, certain foods can potentially damage orthodontic appliances, prolonging the treatment period and possibly increasing the associated costs. Furthermore, the consumption of appropriate foods can facilitate better oral hygiene, which is essential during orthodontic treatment to prevent complications such as tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, a well-balanced diet can aid in maintaining overall oral health, providing essential nutrients required for tissue repair and inflammation control, thereby supporting faster and more efficient treatment outcomes. Therefore, knowledge of suitable foods to consume during orthodontic treatment is not merely beneficial, but a fundamental aspect of successful orthodontic care.

Incorporating fruits and vegetables into the diet

Incorporating fruits and vegetables into one’s daily diet is of paramount importance for maintaining optimal health. These natural food sources are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, all of which contribute significantly to the body’s proper functioning. They aid in digestion, boost the immune system, and play a vital role in preventing a variety of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, due to their low calorie and high water content, fruits and vegetables can contribute to weight management and hydration. Thus, the inclusion of a diverse range of fruits and vegetables in one’s diet is a crucial component of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Balancing the diet throughout the week

Balancing one’s diet throughout the week is an essential aspect of maintaining optimal health and wellness. It involves consuming a variety of foods from all food groups in the right proportions to ensure a well-rounded intake of essential nutrients. This includes proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. A balanced diet is not about strict restrictions or depriving oneself of the foods one loves, but rather about feeling great, having more energy, and stabilizing one’s mood. It can prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer, and promote overall health. Therefore, it is critical to plan meals and snacks throughout the week that incorporate a diverse mix of nutrients to uphold a balanced diet.

Specific Foods to Consider

• Mashed potatoes as a soft and easy-to-chew option
• Yogurt and cottage cheese for a soft and protein-rich choice
• Recommendations for soft fruits and vegetables
• Sweet potatoes as a nutritious and soft alternative
• Soft foods that can be cut into smaller pieces for easier consumption
• Enjoying ice cream as a treat while being mindful of sugar content

Foods to Avoid Until You Get Your Braces Off

In order to maintain optimal dental health and prevent any potential damage to dental appliances such as braces, certain types of food and behaviors should be avoided. Foods that necessitate excessive chewing or may cause discomfort should be minimized. This includes hard and sticky foods such as caramel or hard candies, which can potentially damage braces. Furthermore, it is advisable to refrain from chewing on hard objects like ice or pens, as these can also cause harm to your dental health.

When you have braces, maintaining a proper diet is crucial. So what can you eat with braces? This means avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage the braces or get stuck. Consuming a balanced diet contributes to overall oral health and accelerates the corrective process. The aim is to make your journey with braces easier and more comfortable, while ensuring you achieve the best possible results.

Understanding Braces

Braces consist of several components including brackets, which are small squares attached directly to each tooth; wires, which apply pressure to the teeth to move them into the desired position; and bands, which wrap around the teeth to provide additional support. Braces can indeed impact your eating habits and food choices. You may need to avoid certain foods like hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the braces. But don’t worry, this small change in your diet will be worth it once you see your beautiful, straight smile!

What Foods to Eat with Braces

Eating with braces doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and you can still enjoy a variety of foods while ensuring your braces stay in tip-top condition. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet for overall health, and this becomes even more crucial when you have braces as your teeth need all the essential nutrients to stay strong during this period.

Soft foods are your best friends at this time! Scrambled eggs, cooked vegetables, and soft cheese are not only brace-friendly but also delicious and nutritious. If you eat slightly chewer foods, like a steak, don’t forget to cut your food into small, manageable pieces to avoid any discomfort or potential damage to your braces. Eating softer foods during your brace time can also provide a comfortable eating experience and help reduce the risk of irritating your gums or dislodging your braces. So, enjoy your brace journey with a bit of culinary creativity!

A photo collage of brace-friendly foods.

Foods to Avoid with Braces

If you’re sporting braces, it’s essential to steer clear of certain foods that could potentially cause damage. Sticky and hard foods are your braces’ arch-nemeses. These include certain candies, corn on the cob, and gum, which can get stuck in your braces and brackets, making them tricky to clean. The risk here is that such foods can cause your brackets to snap or wires to bend or break, which may lead to unexpected orthodontist visits for repairs. Eating damaging foods can also prolong your treatment process. So, for the sake of your beautiful future smile, it’s critical to avoid foods that could harm your braces.

Maintaining Oral Health with Braces

Maintaining oral health while wearing braces is incredibly important to ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment. It’s vital to keep your teeth and braces clean, as they can easily trap food particles and plaque, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. To remove these effectively, consider using interdental brushes or floss threaders that are specifically designed for braces. When brushing, don’t forget to brush each tooth at the gum line and above and below the brackets to ensure all plaque is removed.

Flossing might be a bit trickier but it’s essential to floss daily to keep your gums healthy. Remember, a healthy mouth contributes to the success of your orthodontic treatment and leads to a beautiful, radiant smile once your braces come off. So, keep up with your oral hygiene and look forward to the day you’ll flash your beautiful, brace-free smile!

Additional Tips and Considerations

Taking care of your braces is an essential part of your journey to achieving a stunning smile! It’s crucial to avoid habits that could potentially harm your braces, such as nail-biting or chewing on pens. These habits can loosen or break the brackets and wires, leading to unplanned orthodontist visits. Additionally, certain foods like hard candies, popcorn, or crunchy veggies can damage both your braces and teeth. But don’t worry, there are plenty of tasty and braces-friendly food options available.

Soft foods like mashed potatoes or ripe fruits are not only easy on your braces but also contribute to your overall health. Even with braces, you can enjoy a variety of foods! Just remember to cut them into small pieces or cook until they’re soft enough to eat comfortably. And here’s the best part – eating with braces isn’t a problem at all. With a little caution and care, you can continue to enjoy your meals while your braces work their magic on your smile.

FAQ

What are the worst things you can eat with braces?

Hey there! As someone wearing braces, there are a few foods you should avoid to protect your dental hardware and ensure a smooth braces journey. Sticky and hard foods are the main culprits. These include candies like caramel and gummy bears, which can get lodged in your braces, and hard foods like popcorn, nuts, and hard candies, which can potentially damage your braces. Chewy foods like bagels or tough meats can also be problematic as they can get stuck and be hard to remove. And don’t forget corn on the cob, which can dislodge your braces. So while it’s a bit of a bummer, steering clear of these foods can help keep your braces intact and your orthodontic treatment on track.

Can you eat pizza with braces?

Absolutely, you can eat pizza with braces! Just remember to be careful and considerate of your braces. It’s best to avoid biting into a whole slice of pizza, as the crust can be tough and potentially harm your braces. Instead, consider cutting your pizza into small, bite-sized pieces. This way, you can still enjoy your favorite food without putting too much stress on your braces. Happy pizza eating!

Can I eat a burger with braces?

Yes, you can still enjoy a juicy burger even if you have braces! However, there are a few things to keep in mind for a more comfortable eating experience. Instead of biting into it with your front teeth, try cutting the burger into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This way, it’s easier to chew and less likely to get stuck in your braces. Also, be sure to avoid any overly hard or crunchy toppings that could potentially damage your braces. With these simple adjustments, you can continue to enjoy your favorite burgers!

Best foods to eat in your first week of braces?

During your initial week with braces, it is highly recommended to consume soft foods to minimize discomfort and prevent damage to your braces. Foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, soups, soft fruits like bananas, cooked vegetables, pasta, and rice are excellent choices. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and smoothies are also beneficial as they are rich in calcium, promoting stronger teeth. Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods like nuts, popcorn, caramel, and hard candies, as these can potentially dislodge or damage your braces. It is also prudent to cut larger foods into smaller pieces to reduce the pressure on your braces while chewing. Healthy, soft food choices will not only ensure the integrity of your braces but also promote oral health.

What chewy candy can I eat with braces?

If you have braces, you might be thinking that chewy candies are off-limits, but that’s not entirely true. While it’s important to avoid very sticky and hard candies that can damage your braces, there are still some chewy candies you can enjoy. Soft, non-sticky candies like marshmallows or gummy bears are generally safe. Remember, though, sweets should be eaten in moderation and it’s crucial to brush your teeth afterwards to prevent cavities. Always check with your orthodontist if you’re unsure about a particular candy. Happy snacking!

Can I eat chips with braces?

Absolutely, you can still enjoy chips while wearing braces! However, it’s important to be careful. Hard, crunchy chips could potentially damage your braces or get stuck in them. Therefore, it’s recommended to opt for softer chip options or break them into smaller pieces before eating. Always remember to brush and floss after snacking to keep your braces clean. So, go ahead and enjoy your chips, just be mindful and take care of your braces!

Caring For Braces

Rodrigo F. Viecilli, DDS, PhD

Orthodontist Austin TX

We are known for creating beautiful smiles. Here are some tips for taking care of your braces.

Ortho Care

Take especially good care of your teeth during orthodontic treatment. By brushing and flossing regularly, you’ll keep your teeth and gums at their best and ensure that your orthodontic treatment will deliver the healthiest smile possible.

When your braces come off, you’ll see that your extra efforts have been rewarded with a healthy, great-looking smile that’s good for life! If you fail to spend a little extra time caring for your braces, you may end up with white spots on your teeth once the braces are removed. This is an unsightly condition that no one wants.

Doing Your Part

To get the the healthy and beautiful smile that you want, you, your family dentist, friends and [Dr.] will have to work together as a team.

As the patient, you play the key part. It’s up to you to make sure that your treatment is successful. Most importantly, you must keep your teeth clean and maintain good dental hygiene while you’re wearing braces.

Proper dental care will take a little extra time and effort but the results are well worth it. It will help you enjoy the best possible smile from your orthodontic treatment.

Plaque Is Your Enemy

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that collects on your teeth. It’s made of bacteria, food, and saliva. If you let plaque and trapped food stay on your and and around your braces, they can cause swollen gums, bad breath, cavities, and permanent marks on your teeth.

As your [city] orthodontist, we advise brushing your teeth regularly to remove this plaque. We teach all of our patients the correct way to floss while wearing braces to make sure you remove all plaque on a regular basis.

When to Clean

Brush thoroughly each time you have a meal or snack. If you can’t brush right away after a meal, be sure to at least rinse your mouth well with water until you can brush.

Carry a travel toothbrush so that you can brush when you aren’t home. At least once every day, brush your teeth and braces thoroughly until they are spotlessly clean, and then floss. This takes a little extra time, so you may want to do it at night before going to bed.

How to Brush

During your braces treatment, you will need to relearn the basics of brushing your teeth. Relearning this everyday task will teach you to pay attention to the cracks and crevices not only between teeth but around brackets and wires.

Keep these tips in mind when brushing your teeth with braces:

• Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft, rounded-bristle toothbrush that’s in good condition. Because braces wear out a toothbrush quickly, replace your brush as soon as it shows signs of wear.
• Brush around all the parts of your braces and every surface of your teeth – fronts, sides and backs. Be sure to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth. A good way to tell if you’re brushing correctly is if your braces look clean and shiny and you can see the edges of the brackets clearly.
• Brush your gums gently and thoroughly.
• Rinse thoroughly after brushing.
• Inspect your teeth and braces carefully to make sure they are spotless. Look closely in a well-lighted mirror. This is a good time to check for loose or broken brackets. If you find a problem, contact [office name] to see if it needs to be checked out and if we need to schedule a time to make a repair.

How to Floss

Our helpful Austin orthodontist staff will help you learn proper flossing techniques when you choose us for your orthodontic care. These tips for flossing with braces will make the process smoother for you, and you’ll be a pro in no time.

• Floss every night before you go to bed. That way, you won’t feel rushed.
• When flossing with braces on, it might be necessary to use what’s called a floss threader. This reusable tool allows you to get dental floss underneath your archwire easily.
• Make sure you clean carefully along and under the gumlines.
• Flossing with braces on may seem like a difficult process, but it’s very important. And as with anything, a little practice will make it go a lot faster.

Other Hygiene Helpers

In addition to the regular dental hygiene tools we are familiar with like toothbrushes and floss, there are a few products we can recommend that make brushing teeth with braces a little easier to manage.

• Interproximal Brush: This tool slips under your archwire to more completely remove plaque and food particles near your brackets.
• Prescription Fluoride Toothpaste or Fluoride Rinse: Use once a day as part of your cleaning routine, if prescribed by [Dr.]. For the best results, use with your interproximal brush to deliver maximum fluoride protection to your teeth.
• Power Toothbrush or Waterpik: These devices, such as the Oral-B Professional Series toothbrush, are designed to make brushing easier and more efficient.

Problems Caused By Poor Oral Hygiene

Dr. Jeryn Jacob a highly recommended orthodontist in Sunnyvale, TX agreed that good dental hygiene is critical during orthodontic treatment. Without it, plaque and food can accumulate around your braces.

The bacteria in plaque react with sugars and starches in food and form an acid that can eat away the enamel on your teeth, leading to white marks, cavities or gum disease.

• If plaque accumulates around your braces, it can leave permanent stains on your teeth called decalcification. Lines and spots from decalcification will remain on your teeth for life.
• Periodontal disease, caused by the build-up of plaque, occurs in three stages. In the first stage, plaque accumulation irritates the gums. Your gums may be puffy or swollen. They may bleed when you brush or floss. This is called gingivitis.
• Over time, the build-up of plaque may harden into a substance called tartar. As tartar accumulates, gaps or pockets may form between your gums and teeth. Even more tartar can collect in these pockets. This is called periodontitis.
• Pockets of bacteria form and deepen beneath your gums, attacking and destroying the bone that anchors your teeth. This can even cause healthy teeth to loosen or eventually fall out. This is called advanced periodontitis.

Early gum disease is reversible with professional help and good home care, but if you ignore it, it can get worse.

Gum disease is usually painless, so you need to pay attention to signs like bleeding, or swollen and puffy gums.

Carefully follow [Dr.] and staff’s directions on hygiene to avoid these problems.