Everything You Need to Know About Braces and Orthodontic Care
Braces are one of the most trusted and effective ways to straighten teeth, correct bite problems, and build a confident smile that lasts a lifetime. At Stellar Orthodontics, Dr. Preeti Sidhu offers modern, comfortable brace options designed to fit every lifestyle, from traditional metal braces to clear ceramic brackets and customizable WildSmiles designs. Whether you’re a teen ready to start treatment or a parent exploring options, we make your orthodontic experience simple, stress-free, and personalized from start to finish.
Why Should You Brush and Floss When Wearing Braces?
Good oral hygiene is more important than ever when you’re wearing braces. Because brackets and wires create extra places for food and plaque to collect, brushing and flossing take a little more effort, but keeping your teeth and gums healthy ensures the best results from your orthodontic treatment.
Patients who don’t keep up with proper brushing may need more frequent professional cleanings, and adults with a history of gum disease should continue seeing their periodontist during treatment.
Our team will show you the best brushing and flossing techniques, and you can also watch the helpful videos below for a step-by-step guide.
Eating With Braces
One of the most common questions we hear is, “What can I eat with braces?”
During the first few days, especially after adjustments, stick to soft foods to help with tenderness. As you adjust, you’ll be able to enjoy many of your favorite foods again, but it’s important to protect your appliances throughout treatment.
What Foods Should You Avoid?
To prevent broken brackets or bent wires, avoid:
Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
Sticky foods: caramels, gum
Hard foods: nuts, hard candy
Foods you bite into: corn on the cob, apples, raw carrots
Also avoid chewing on pens, pencils, fingernails, or other hard objects, as these can damage your braces and extend your treatment time.
General Soreness
It’s normal to feel soreness or pressure for the first 3–5 days after your braces are placed or adjusted.
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also feel irritated for a week or two as they adjust. We’ll provide you with orthodontic wax to place on any areas rubbing your mouth to make the transition more comfortable.
Loosening of Teeth
Don’t be alarmed, your teeth may feel slightly loose during treatment. This is completely normal. Teeth must loosen first so they can move into their new, corrected positions. They will firm up once treatment is complete.
What if my wire or band gets loose?
If a wire or band comes loose, don’t panic; this happens occasionally. If the wire is poking you and irritating, you can gently tuck it back under the archwire with the eraser end of a pencil or another blunt object.
If irritation continues, place orthodontic wax or a small piece of wet cotton over the area. Then, call our office as soon as possible so we can schedule a repair appointment.
Rubber Band Wear
Rubber bands are an essential part of many treatments. To move the teeth and jaw into their ideal positions, they must be worn exactly as prescribed by Dr. Preeti Sidhu.
Lack of cooperation, or broken appliances, can significantly delay your treatment, so please follow instructions closely to keep your smile on track.
Athletics and Braces
If you play sports, let us know so we can provide a protective mouthguard designed for active orthodontic patients. This helps prevent injuries to your teeth, lips, and braces when participating in contact or high-impact sports.
For personalized guidance and exceptional orthodontic care, schedule your appointment with Stellar Orthodontics and start building the smile you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
Starting braces comes with lots of questions, that’s completely normal! Explore our most frequently asked questions to understand what to expect and how to make your treatment smooth and successful.
Can I return to school or work the same day I get braces?
Yes. Most patients return to normal routines right away. Some mild soreness is expected for a few days, but it doesn’t prevent you from attending school, sports, or work.
Can I whiten my teeth while wearing braces?
Whitening is not recommended during braces because the brackets cover enamel. The best time for teeth whitening is after treatment once all brackets have been removed.
What happens if I don’t wear my rubber bands as instructed?
Rubber bands control your bite correction. Skipping wear can significantly delay your treatment or lead to results that are not fully corrected.
What should I do if food gets stuck in my braces and I can’t remove it?
Use floss threaders, an interdental brush, or a water flosser to gently dislodge food. If you still have trouble, call the office for advice.
Are there alternatives to braces if my teen prefers a more discreet option?
Yes. Stellar Orthodontics offers Angel Aligners, clear ceramic braces, and WildSmiles brackets for patients who prefer subtle or personalized options. Dr. Sidhu will recommend the best fit for your goals and lifestyle.
