Brace Care

Braces are a great way to improve your smile and your oral health, but they also require some extra care and attention. Here are some tips on how to look after your mouth while wearing braces, and help avoid any problems or complications.  

Have a good routine

It’s important that you have a good mouth hygiene routine before a brace is fitted, otherwise you may find that you are more likely to suffer from tooth decay once treatment begins. 

Once you have had your brace fitted, it’s more likely that bits of food will get stuck, and you will therefore need to brush your teeth and brace much more carefully and more often to help prevent dental problems. 

Know what foods to avoid

Some foods and drinks can damage your braces. Stay away from foods and drinks that are: 

• chewy – bagels, liquorice, marshmallows 

• crunchy – popcorn, crisps, ice 

• sticky – caramel, toffees, chewing gum 

• sugary – cakes, natural fruit juice 

• fizzy – soda 

• hard – nuts, hard sweets, French bread, crusty rolls 

• whole foods (unless you cut them up first) such as corn on the cob, apples and carrots. 
   

Brush your teeth and brace well twice a day.

Brushing your teeth and brace well is very important to keep your mouth clean and healthy. You should brush your teeth twice a day. Here are some steps to follow:  

• If you have any removable parts on your braces (such as elastics), remove those first and clean them too. 

• Using fluoride toothpaste and a soft, compact toothbrush, place your brush at an angle of 45 degrees against the gums. Gently brush along the gum line where the gums and teeth meet, using a small circular motion on each tooth. 

• Spend about 10 seconds on each tooth before moving onto the next tooth, brushing in a set pattern so that you don't miss any teeth. 

• Gently brush the braces. Press your toothbrush firmly enough so that the bristles spread into the gaps between the wire and the tooth. Brush in and around all of the brackets and wires. Ensure that you brush under the wires. 

• Clean every side and edge of your teeth, including the back of each tooth, all the way to the gum. Don’t forget the teeth right at the back of your mouth. 

• Spit out any excess toothpaste and take a good look at your teeth and braces in the mirror to check that they are properly clean. 
   

Floss your teeth

Flossing your teeth is also important to remove any plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can't reach. You can floss your teeth even if you wear braces, by using a special tool that lets you insert the floss between your teeth. Ask your orthodontist to show you how to do this properly. 
 

Discomfort

You should expect some discomfort when a new brace is fitted, or when you have been for a follow-up appointment to have your brace adjusted, but if the pain remains after a few days, go back to your orthodontist so that they can check all is well. 
 

Visit you dentist and orthodontist regularly  

You should visit your regular dentist and your orthodontist regularly, and keep any follow-up appointments. Follow their instructions and advice, and do not hesitate to ask them any questions or concerns you may have.  

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.