What to Expect and How to Care for Your New Smile
Congratulations on your new braces! Proper care is crucial for your treatment’s success and achieving a smile you’ll be proud of.
Eating with Braces
To avoid damaging your braces:
- Avoid chewy, crunchy, and sticky foods
- Steer clear of hard foods and items you need to bite into, like corn on the cob and apples
You can enjoy:
- Soft dairy products, meats, seafood, breads, and grains
- Soft fruits and vegetables
- Treats like ice cream, milkshakes, and cake
Managing Initial Discomfort
It’s normal to feel tender initially. To alleviate discomfort:
- Rinse with saltwater: Mix one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water.
- Use orthodontic wax: Apply to reduce irritation.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.
Caring for Your Braces
Proper care is essential to ensure your braces work effectively. Be diligent in wearing your prescribed rubber bands, as neglecting this can prolong your treatment time. Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup around your braces, which can lead to decay and gum problems. Consistent care will help your braces perform their job and contribute to a successful treatment outcome.
Playing Sports
You can continue to participate in sports while wearing braces. To protect your braces and your mouth, it’s highly recommended to use a mouthguard. This will help prevent any damage to your braces and reduce the risk of injury during physical activities.
