Life With Braces


Got crooked teeth? – at DentalBraces we believe this

issue is best looked at and usually best treated as early

as possible -

perhaps if your 4 year old is treated NOW he/she

might be able to avoid braces.

It’s important for you to know how to properly take care of your braces throughout your entire orthodontic treatment. On this page we will discuss good and bad foods for eating while wearing braces, such as sticky or chewy snacks. Also covered is the amount of soreness you can expect from braces and appliances. You will also learn about dental braces and loose teeth, as well simple things like playing sports with braces and brushing your teeth.


Eating food with your braces:

The most important things are to not damage your braces or your teeth during your treatment, so take special care to avoid any foods that could damage your new appliances or harm your teeth.

(X) Foods to avoid with braces:

Chewy or sticky foods such as:

  • toffees
  • chewing gum

Crunchy foods such as:

  • popcorn
  • chips
  • ice

Hard foods such as:

  • nuts
  • mints

Foods that you bite with the front teeth such as:

  • corn on the cob
  • apples
  • carrots

(OK!) Foods you can eat with braces:

These are only ok if you don’t have food sensitivities to them

NB: Often, sugars, milk based items, gluten containing foods are a

part of the cause of the inflammation that caused the original

problem.  See www.Deflame.Com for more information about diet.



Dairy foods:

  • soft cheese
  • pudding
  • milk-based drinks

Breads:

  • soft tortillas
  • pancakes
  • muffins

Pastas:

  • including soft-cooked rice

Meats and Poultry:

  • soft-cooked chicken
  • meatballs
  • lunch meats

Seafood

  • soft fish

Vegetables

  • mashed potatoes
  • steamed vegetables
  • beans

Fruits

  • bananas
  • fruit juice
  • mango

Treats / Snacks / Deserts

  • ice cream
  • milkshakes
  • jell-O
  • soft cake

What about sore teeth caused from braces and appliances?

tips for sore teeth dental bracesSome minor pain could occur during your treatment, especially when you first get your braces. Depending on the type of wire you have, a glass of cold water can soften the wire and temporarily relieve the pain (NiTi wires).

If the pain is more severe and does not go away you should call your orthodontist or dentist. It is also not uncommon for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become used to the braces. You can put some wax over the braces to lessen the tenderness.

Loose Teeth

If your teeth begin feeling a little loose, don’t worry; this is normal! Your braces must first loosen your teeth in order to move them into the right position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, they will no longer be loose.

What if my wires and bands on my braces become loose?

The wires and bands on your braces may come loose. If this happens, please contact your practitioner as soon as possible so that we can check and repair your appliance. If any piece of your appliance comes off, be sure to save it and take it to the office with you.

Tip: You can temporarily fix the loose wire by using the back of a spoon or the eraser end of a pencil to carefully and gently push the wire back into place. If the loose wire is causing irritation to your lips or cheeks, put wax or a wet cotton ball over the broken wire to relieve the pain.

How can I best take care of my appliances

Taking the proper care of your dental appliance is key. Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment process, so be sure to take care of all your appliances. Your teeth and jaw can only move into their correct positions if you consistently wear the rubber bands, headgear, retainer, or other appliances prescribed by your doctor.


Can I play sports with teeth braces?

You can still play sports even while undergoing orthodontic treatment! If you do play sports, it’s recommended that you wear a mouthguard in order to protect your teeth and your appliance. Let your doctor know if you need help finding the right mouthguard for the best protection. In case of a sports emergency, be sure to immediately check your mouth and your appliance for any damage that may have occurred. If you notice any loose teeth, or if your appliance has been damaged, please contact your practitioner right away.

IMPORTANT: Brushing Your Teeth with Braces

When you have braces it’s very important to brush and floss after every meal in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your treatment. If you need help choosing the right toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss, please ask your practitioner.






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