The Good Life-IN BraCeS
FOODS TO AVOID
These foods will bend your braces out of shape or break the bracket off all together
Too Hard→ Apples, carrots, ice, rocks
Too Chewy→ Bagels, corn on the cob, beef jerky, gummies
Too Sticky→ Caramel, peanut butter, taffies, chewy bars, gum
Too Crunchy→ Chips, celery, popcorn, nuts, bones
FOODS TO AVOID
BRUSHING
We think straight teeth that are rotten are no better than healthy teeth that are crooked. So, brushing and flossing the teeth (and cleaning and taking care of the braces or other appliance being used) is super important. We will give you the tools and tricks of the trade, including using a good electric toothbrush, special toothpaste, floss made for braces, and continued professional dental check ups and care.
BRUSHING
EATING W/ BRACES
Be ready for a little bit of a learning curve and time to adjust your eating habits once braces go on. Typically, you will feel soreness and want to eat soft and easy to chew foods. Think oatmeal, bananas, yogurt, soup, cooked veggies, and more soup. There is also the crowd favorites of mac & cheese and ice cream. The harder foods that require lots of chewing will mean a tougher time for you as braces will make your teeth sore for the first two weeks or so. After that, it generally smooth with a day or two of soreness after adjustment visits.
EATING W/ BRACES
EMERGENCY CARE
Sore Jaw
Moving teeth happens in a very similar process as working out. A little pressure over is put on the tooth, which starts the process of inflammation that leads to moving gradual movement of the teeth across the jaw bone. Like after a good work out, you will feel some general soreness. You can take anti-inflammatory/pain medication (Advil or Motrin). You can also use over-the-counter analgesic like Orabase® or Orajel®. If your braces are rubbing or poking your mouth, you can use dental wax (we will give you some, and is easy to find at the drugstore) to cover problem areas and prevent blisters.
Loose Bracket or Band
Braces and appliances that go in a patient’s mouth are made to eventually remove by the orthodontist. Sometimes, they can get loose, be bent out of shape, or even break. If something is poking, dental wax can be really helpful; place a small amount on the spot to cover the problem area. Next, schedule an appointment to have the bracket or band repaired.
Poking Wire or Bracket
Teeth are guided into their ideal position using a light wire across your braces. This wire may pop out of place. If it’s a flexible wire, you might be able to push it back into place using tweezers. If you can’t move it with tweezers, you can use a pencil eraser or the back of a pen to push the pokie wire down. It may be easiet to use dental wax you’re unable to get the wire in a ideal place- roll up a generous amount and put it over the pokie wire. Remember to call us for the next available appointment to have the wire repaired.