Taking Care of Your Fixed Braces

Whether you’ve recently had your braces fitted or are interested in getting braces in the future, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what is required to keep your braces in good condition.

It may seem daunting, however we can ensure you it’s not! This handy guide will give you a clear overview of the essential brace care tips and tricks.

Oral hygiene

With braces, it is essential that you keep both your teeth and braces spotlessly clean. We recommend using a small single tufted brush in addition to normal brushing as this will allow you to get in and clean areas which your regular toothbrush may be too large to reach. It’s important to pay special attention to the area between the brace and the gum as food can often get stuck here.

Disclosing tablets will also help you see any areas that you are missing.

Diet

For those with a sweet tooth, this is often the hardest part of wearing braces! You must avoid sweets, sugary snacks (e.g. biscuits) and especially fizzy drinks, (even “diet” drinks!) 

These snacks and drinks may cause permanent and unsightly damage to your tooth enamel.  We recommend that all drinks should be non-carbonated and sugar free. Water is definitely your best option! 

If you do however choose to drink fizzy drinks while wearing braces, do so very rarely and ensure you drink it through a straw. After you’ve finished your drink, be sure to rinse your mouth out with water afterwards.

Fluoride

We recommend using a fluoride mouthwash to rinse your mouth on a daily basis. Mouthwashes containing fluoride will help to reduce the risk of enamel damage. 

Breakages

Although your brace is strong, it is unlikely to withstand the wear and tear cause by eating hard, sticky and crunchy foods.  

As previously mentioned, all sweets must be avoided.  For the best care, cut your food up into smaller pieces and take more time over eating. In particular, slice or grate harder foods such as apples and carrots.

Any breakages or damage to your braces will prolong your treatment.

Discomfort

After your brace has been fitted; your teeth may feel tight and uncomfortable. This pain will soon ease as you get used to having the appliance in your mouth. 

To help with this pain, you can take non-prescription painkillers, only if required, which should not be necessary for more than a few days.

The appliance may feel a little sharp or prominent to start with.  Your lips and cheeks soon get used to this and any discomfort should pass after the first few days. 

Please contact the practice for advice and we will arrange an appointment as required.

To learn more about our removable and fixed brace options at The Practice Poly Clinic, click here to contact us. To speak to a member of our team, please call 800 The Practice Poly Clinic.