Life with Braces: Tips for Eating, Brushing, and Staying Comfortable

Braces are a powerful tool for creating a healthier, more beautiful smile, but adjusting to life with them can take some getting used to. At Towne Lake Family Dentistry, we want every patient to feel confident and comfortable during their orthodontic journey. Whether you’re new to braces or supporting a loved one through treatment, here are some practical tips to make daily life with braces easier.
 

What to Enjoy and What to Avoid

Your diet will need some temporary adjustments once you have braces. The brackets and wires can be sensitive to hard or sticky foods, and getting food stuck can be frustrating. Here’s how to make mealtimes easier:
 

Foods to Enjoy:
 

•          Soft fruits like bananas and berries

•          Cooked vegetables

•          Dairy products like yogurt and cheese

•          Eggs

•          Pasta, rice, and soft breads

•          Soups and stews

Foods to Avoid:
 

•          Sticky candies and chewing gum

•          Hard or crunchy foods like nuts, popcorn, and raw carrots

•          Tough meats or chewy bagels

•          Ice (never chew on ice)

•          Corn on the cob and apples (unless cut into small pieces)

Cutting food into smaller, bite-sized pieces can help prevent damaging your braces and make eating more comfortable.
 

Keeping Your Smile Healthy

Good oral hygiene is even more important when you have braces. Brackets and wires create new places for food and plaque to hide, increasing your risk for cavities and gum disease. Here are some tips to keep your smile clean:
 

•          Brush after every meal: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the brush to clean around the brackets and wires.

•          Use an interdental brush or proxy brush: These small, pointed brushes help remove debris from hard-to-reach places.

•          Floss daily: A floss threader or special orthodontic floss can help you get under the wires.

•          Rinse with water or mouthwash: Swishing after meals helps remove leftover particles and keeps your breath fresh.

Take your time and be gentle to avoid damaging your braces or irritating your gums.
 

Staying Comfortable with Braces

Some discomfort is normal when you first get braces or after adjustments. To stay comfortable:
 

•          Use orthodontic wax: If a bracket or wire is rubbing the inside of your cheek or lips, a little wax can create a smooth barrier.

•          Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease soreness after adjustments (use as directed).

•          Eat soft foods: If your teeth are sore, stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods for a few days.

•          Call us if something feels wrong: If a wire is poking or a bracket comes loose, contact Towne Lake Family Dentistry for help.

Have Questions About Braces?

Adjusting to life with braces may require some changes to your daily routine, but these new habits will help ensure a smooth and successful treatment. By making mindful choices about what you eat, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and managing any discomfort, you can keep your orthodontic experience as comfortable as possible.
 

If you have questions about braces or need support during your orthodontic treatment, contact Towne Lake Family Dentistry to schedule your consultation. Visit our office in Woodstock, Georgia, or call us at (770) 525-8581to book an appointment today.