Braces

Here are some tips and advice on living with braces. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the clinic and we’ll be happy to provide you with the information you need.

Eating

There are certain foods you’ll need to avoid while wearing braces. These include:

• Chewy foods (i.e. hard breads, and meats, raw vegetables)
• Crunchy foods (i.e. crisps, ice, popcorn)
• Sticky foods (i.e. chewing gum, caramels, sweets)
• Hard foods (i.e. nuts, candy)
• Foods you bite into, such as corn on the cob and apples

For the first few days after your braces are put on, stick to soft foods that are easily chewed. After a few days, you will get used to the feeling of the braces and you can expand your menu, but remember to avoid the foods listed above.

Managing Discomfort

After your braces are put on, you may experience some discomfort, including a soreness of the mouth and teeth. This will pass after a few days, and you can use over-the-counter pain medication for relief as required. Also, you may experience slight irritation of the tongue, lips and inside of your cheeks as the skin toughens and acclimatizes to the metal of the braces. Rest assured that this discomfort is short lived, and we are here to help you through every step of the way.

Loosening of Teeth

Don’t be concerned if you feel a slight loosening of your teeth during treatment. The teeth must loosen somewhat in order to move into their new position. Once positioned correctly, they will firmly fix again in the gums. If you are concerned or need reassurance, please contact the clinic and we’ll be happy to check you.

Caring for your Teeth & Braces

You play a major part in the success of your treatment!

Follow these steps and take the best care of your braces and teeth:

• Wear your rubber brands, headgear and other appliances exactly as prescribed by the orthodontist. This will ensure the fastest, most effective treatment.
• If there is damage to any part of your appliance, contact the orthodontic clinic immediately. Damaged appliances will not work as effectively and will lengthen the treatment time.
• Effective brushing is vital to your oral health. Food gets trapped very easily in braces, and this can cause plaque build up. To prevent this, brush your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste and a soft bristled brush after every meal or snack.
• Keep all your appointments as scheduled with the orthodontist. This is the best way to monitor and adjust the treatment as necessary for optimal results.
• Visit your dentist for a check-up and clean on a regular basis, at least every six months. This will ensure your teeth are healthy and clean, and will help prevent cavities during treatment.

Sports

If you play sports, especially contact sports, a mouth guard may be necessary to protect your braces and teeth. It is important that you consult with us to determine the best protection for you. In case of an accident during a sports game, check your appliances and teeth immediately. In the event of any damage, such as loosened teeth or a broken appliance, contact the clinic for an emergency appointment.

Emergency Care

Occasionally, a band or wire may come loose. Don’t be alarmed – we will quickly fix or replace any part of the appliance. If a sharp metal piece is protruding in your mouth, use a flat implement such as a spoon to pat it down. Then, contact the clinic to make an appointment so we can have a look and make any necessary repairs.

In the event of an emergency, such as severe pain or a protruding piece that won’t move, contact the clinic and we will see you immediately.