Life with Braces

It’s normal to experience some soreness or irritation when your braces are first placed and after each adjustment. This usually eases within a few days. To stay comfortable, try soft foods, warm compresses, or over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If a bracket or wire rubs against your cheeks or lips, apply the orthodontic wax provided to smooth the area. A gentle warm saltwater rinse can also help reduce irritation. If a wire continues to cause discomfort, give our office a call — we can make quick adjustments to relieve it.

Stick to softer foods and avoid anything hard, sticky, or crunchy that could damage brackets and wires. You can still enjoy fruits and vegetables—just cut them into smaller pieces, cook them, or blend them into smoothies. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks is important because braces can make thorough cleaning more difficult. Food or plaque trapped around brackets can quickly lead to cavities, so try to choose tooth-friendly options whenever possible.

Keeping your teeth clean with braces is especially important. Brush at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and consider adding a fluoride rinse for extra protection. Since braces wear brushes out faster, be ready to replace yours more often. Don’t forget to clean between your teeth daily. Floss threaders, interdental brushes, and water flossers can all help remove food and plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. If you need guidance on any of these tools, we’re always happy to help!