By Unique Orthodontics | John Bayrakdarian, D.M.D.
Braces are a transformative investment in your oral health and confidence, but their success heavily relies on how well you care for them. At Unique Orthodontics, we are here to support you every step of your smile journey—and that includes making sure you know the best ways to care for your braces.
Here’s your complete guide to the do’s and don’ts of braces care, so you can stay on track for a beautiful, healthy smile.
Why Braces Care Matters
Braces work by gently applying pressure to shift your teeth into proper alignment. But without proper care, problems like broken brackets, stained teeth, or prolonged treatment times can occur. Practicing good oral hygiene and following specific guidelines helps ensure your treatment stays on track and delivers the results you deserve.
Braces Care: The Do’s
✅ Do Brush and Floss Regularly
It’s important to brush after every meal and floss at least once a day. Braces can trap food particles easily, which increases the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay. Use an orthodontic toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and floss threaders or a water flosser for best results.
✅ Do Use Orthodontic Wax
Braces can sometimes irritate the inside of your cheeks or lips. Orthodontic wax can help reduce discomfort by creating a protective barrier between your braces and soft tissue.
✅ Do Rinse with Mouthwash
Use a fluoride mouthwash to reduce bacteria, strengthen enamel, and keep your mouth fresh. This is especially helpful if brushing and flossing aren’t possible immediately after eating.
✅ Do Eat Soft Foods After Adjustments
It’s normal to experience soreness after getting braces or after adjustments. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soup to reduce discomfort.
✅ Do Attend All Appointments
Regular visits to your orthodontist are critical to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments. Skipping appointments can delay your treatment.
Braces Care: The Don’ts
❌ Don’t Eat Sticky or Hard Foods
Avoid foods that can damage your braces, such as:
- Gum
- Caramel
- Hard candy
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Ice
These can bend wires, break brackets, or get stuck between your teeth and braces.
❌ Don’t Use Teeth as Tools
Never use your teeth to open packages or bottles. This can lead to broken brackets or chipped teeth.
❌ Don’t Skip Brushing
Skipping brushing even once a day can lead to staining around your brackets and a higher risk of cavities and gum issues.
❌ Don’t Ignore Issues
If a wire comes loose or a bracket breaks, contact us right away. Ignoring the issue can lead to discomfort and treatment delays.
❌ Don’t Whiten Teeth During Treatment
Teeth whitening products can cause uneven coloring since the area beneath the brackets won’t whiten. Wait until your braces are removed for any whitening treatments.
Q&A: Braces Care at Unique Orthodontics
Q: How often should I brush my teeth with braces?
A: You should brush after every meal and before bed. Carry a travel toothbrush with you if you’re on the go.
Q: What if I forget to avoid a restricted food and break a bracket?
A: Contact your Unique Orthodontics location as soon as possible. We’ll schedule a repair appointment and help you stay on track.
Q: Can I play sports with braces?
A: Yes! But be sure to wear an orthodontic mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces during physical activity.
Q: Are there tools that make flossing easier with braces?
A: Absolutely. We recommend using floss threaders, orthodontic floss, or a water flosser to make daily cleaning more manageable.
Q: Will I need a special toothbrush for braces?
A: An orthodontic toothbrush with V-shaped bristles, or an electric toothbrush with a small head, is ideal. These help reach around the brackets and wires.
Smile with Confidence at Unique Orthodontics
At Unique Orthodontics, we take pride in offering personalized, high-quality orthodontic care throughout California’s Central Valley. Dr. John Bayrakdarian and our experienced team are here to make sure your smile transformation is smooth, successful, and stress-free.
Whether you’re wearing traditional braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign®, we’ll provide you with tailored care instructions and ongoing support.
Contact Unique Orthodontics
We have convenient locations to serve you:
- Fresno Location: Click Here
- Old Town Clovis Location: Click Here
- Near Buchanan Location: Click Here
- Madera Location: Click Here
- Tulare Location: Click Here
- Hanford Location: Click Here
- Visalia Location: Click Here
- Merced Location: Click Here
- Fresno (Cedar) Location: Click Here
Ready to schedule your visit or need help with your braces? Reach out to the location nearest you—we’re always happy to help you stay on track to your perfect smile!
Unique Orthodontics – Your Smile, Made Unique.
