• TYPES OF BRACES
• BRUSHING AND FLOSSING
• RETAINER CARE
• COMMONLY USED ITEMS
• SORENESS CAUSED FROM BRACES AND APPLIANCES

LIFESTYLE WITH BRACES

You may have read about certain types of trade name braces that claim they will get your treatment done faster. We feel these claims are misleading.

Every case in orthodontics is different and treatment time is merely an educated guess. Every case should be treated as meticulously possible. Extremely difficult cases may take longer because there are so many problems to correct. We will make every attempt to complete your case as soon as possible, but with ideal results.
It’s important for you to know how to properly take care of your braces throughout your orthodontic treatment to achieve the best results possible.

Foods to AVOID with braces

The most important foods to avoid are:

• hard candies
• gum
• ice

These will increase the change of breakage and greatly prolong treatment.

Popcorn and nuts can get in between your teeth and cause infection.

Cut corn off the cob and slice fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots.

Remove the meat from ribs and chicken to prevent breakage.

Foods you CAN eat as is, with braces

• Dairy – soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks
• Breads – soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins without nuts
• Grains – pasta, soft cooked rice
• Meats/Poultry – soft cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats
• Seafood – tuna, salmon, crab cakes
• Vegetables – mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans
• Fruits – applesauce, bananas, fruit juice
• Treats – ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, soft cake

Take Care of your Appliances

Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment process, so be sure to take care of all your appliances. Your teeth and jaws can only move into their correct positions if you consistently wear the rubber bands, retainer, or other appliances prescribed by your doctor.

Playing Sports with Braces

You can still play sports even while undergoing orthodontic treatment! If you do play sports, it’s recommended that you wear a mouth guard specifically made for braces to protect your teeth and your appliance.
In case of a sports emergency, be sure to immediately check your mouth and appliance for damage. If you notice any loose teeth or appliance damage, please contact our office. You can temporarily relieve the discomfort by applying wax or rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater.