Taking care of your braces is one of the best ways to keep your treatment on schedule and achieve the smile you're working toward. Below are answers to some of the most common questions our patients ask.
brush after every meal and before bed using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Take your time cleaning around each bracket and along the gumline to remove food and plaque
Floss at least once a day using floss threaders, orthodontic floss, or a water flosser. Cleaning between your teeth helps prevent cavities and keeps your gums healthy throughout treatment.
Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage your braces.
Try to avoid:
Soft foods are always the safest choice after adjustments.
Yes. Mild soreness is common after getting braces or following an adjustment appointment. The discomfort usually lasts a few days and can often be relieved by eating soft foods, rinsing with warm salt water, or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed.
Don't worry—this is completely normal. Braces gently move your teeth by allowing them to shift into healthier positions. Slight movement means your treatment is working.
If the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and contact our office to schedule a repair. Avoid playing with it or attempting to fix it yourself.
Cover the end of the wire with orthodontic wax to reduce irritation. If needed, you can gently move the wire with a clean cotton swab. If the discomfort continues, contact our office.
Wear your elastics exactly as instructed by your orthodontist. Consistent wear is important because removing them too often can delay your treatment.
Absolutely! We recommend wearing an orthodontic mouthguard during contact sports to help protect your braces, teeth, and soft tissues from injury.
It's best to avoid chewing gum. Gum can stick to brackets and wires, making it harder to clean your teeth and increasing the risk of damage.
Most patients should wait until their braces are removed before whitening. Whitening products may not reach the areas beneath the brackets, resulting in uneven color.
If you wear clear aligners, put them back in as soon as you remember. Wearing them for the recommended 20–22 hours each day is essential for keeping your treatment on schedule.
Clean your retainer daily using cool water and a soft toothbrush. Store it in its protective case whenever you're not wearing it, and keep it away from heat, which can warp the material.
Most orthodontic issues aren't true emergencies, but you should contact our office if you have:
We'll help determine whether you need to be seen right away or if the issue can wait until your next appointment.
Every smile is unique, but most orthodontic treatments are completed within 12 to 24 months. Your orthodontist will provide a personalized estimate based on your specific needs.
Our team is always happy to help. If you're unsure about how to care for your braces, aligners, or retainers—or if something doesn't feel right—please contact our office. We're here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.