A Guide to Your New Braces

Tips for Happy Living With Your Braces

The Keys to Braces

We want to provide you with the most pleasant experience possible. Here are some tips for happy living with your braces:

Attend Appointments

Keep your scheduled appointment and call the office right away if you are unable to make your appointment so we may reschedule.

Advise of Emergencies

Inform our office of all orthodontic emergencies so they can be addressed ASAP.

Good Habits

Brush and floss to maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment.

Know What to Avoid

Avoid any foods/habits that can be harmful to your appliances.

Protect Your Braces

Always wear a protective mouthguard when playing sports.

Common Problems & Solutions

Sore Teeth

It is normal for your braces to be a little sore for 2-3 days after your bonding or adjustment. Take Tylenol, Advil or Motrin to relieve the soreness.

Poking

Simply pinch off a small piece of wax and roll it into a ball the size of a pea. Flatten and place completely over the area of the braces causing the irritation. Don’t worry if you accidentally eat the wax, it’s harmless.

Loose Wire

If you experience a loose wire, try gently putting it back in place. You might need to use the eraser end of a pencil to help nudge the wire home. If unsuccessful, call to schedule an appointment.

Loose Bands or Brackets

If you experience a loose band or bracket that is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and use wax to relieve any discomfort. Please call us to schedule an appointment.

Your New Braces

To help make sure you don’t stain your teeth, cut back on soda, energy drinks, candy, cake — any food or drink that is high in sugar content. This will help prevent decalcifications and tooth decay.

We recommend regular dental checkups and cleaning for the continued health of your teeth and gums.

Brushing

Brush after every meal (minimum of 3 times per day).
Thoroughly brush around the brackets and wires and every surface of your teeth-fronts, sides, backs, and chewing surfaces for at least 2 full minutes.
After brushing, look at your braces closely in a mirror to make sure all food and plaque (whitish material around braces and gum line) have been completely removed.

Flossing

Floss at least once a day, preferably at night
Use a floss threader to get the floss under the wire and between your teeth or use “Platypus” flossers.
Waterpiks are great tools, however, they do not replace good old fashioned flossing.

Your New Daily Routine

BRUSH TEETH

FLOSS

FLUORIDE MOUTH RINSE

Foods to Avoid

Bubble Gum

Hard Pretzels

Popcorn

Hard Pizza Crust

Raw Whole Apples

Jerky

Raw Carrots

Chips

Nuts

Meat On The Bone

Corn On The Cob

Sticky and Chewy Candy (Toffee, Starbursts, Skittles, Gummy Bears, Fruit Roll Ups)

Also avoid chewing ice, pens, pencils or finger nails.

Your Guide To Braces For Download

Download Braces Guide

WE WANT TO SEE YOU SMILE

We would love to meet you in person or virtually! Please fill out the form below or give us a call at (650) 331-1171 to schedule your first appointment. We look forward to seeing you here!