All About Braces Care and Oral Hygiene
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.
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 I avoid with braces?
To prevent broken brackets or bent wires, avoid:
- Chewy foods (bagels, tough rolls, licorice)
- Crunchy foods (popcorn, ice)
- Sticky foods (caramel, gum)
- Hard foods (nuts, hard candy)
- Foods you bite into directly (corn on the cob, whole apples, raw carrots)
Cut firm foods into small pieces whenever possible, and avoid chewing on pens or fingernails.
Common Adjustments During Treatment
Some changes are completely normal as your teeth begin moving into better alignment.
Is soreness normal after getting braces?
Yes. Mild soreness or pressure is common for 3–5 days after braces are placed or adjusted. This simply means your teeth are responding to treatment. Orthodontic wax can help ease irritation as your cheeks and lips adjust.
Why do my teeth feel loose?
Teeth may feel slightly loose during treatment. This is expected. Teeth must loosen before they shift into their new positions. They will firm up once treatment is complete.
What should I do if a wire or band comes loose?
If a wire shifts and feels uncomfortable, you can gently reposition it using the eraser end of a pencil. If irritation continues, place orthodontic wax over the area and contact our office to schedule a repair appointment.
How important are rubber bands?
Rubber bands play a key role in correcting bite alignment. Wearing them exactly as instructed keeps treatment progressing on schedule. Skipping wear can extend your overall treatment time.
Can I play sports with braces?
Yes. If you participate in contact or high-impact sports, we recommend wearing a protective orthodontic mouthguard to help prevent injury to your teeth and braces.
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.
