Life With Braces

General Soreness

Initially the braces feel like they "stick out." This is normal. As you become accustomed to your braces and tooth alignment improves, this sensation will disappear and will cease to be a concern. Although the brackets have been rounded and smoothed, until the cheek tissues have "toughened," you may find it helpful to use a small piece of orthodontic wax around the bracket that is creating the irritation. If your supply of wax runs out, call our office for more, or purchase more at a drug store.

You will probably notice some discomfort beginning a few hours after your braces are placed. Some teeth, usually the front teeth, may be "tender" and sensitive to pressure. Occasionally patients report that they experience no discomfort, but most will develop some soreness during the first 8 hours that dissipates within the week. Exactly when the discomfort ceases is impossible to predict and differs for each patient. You may wish to take nonprescription pain remedies commonly taken for other discomforts, such as headaches. For maximum effectiveness, it may be best to take such medications before the discomfort begins.

Eating with Braces

Although some patients are able to eat or drink almost anything while in braces and have no ill effects, there are certain dietary habits that are known to cause breakage of orthodontic appliances as well as increase the risk of dental disease. Our aim is to achieve the treatment goals with as few disturbances as possible due to appliance breakage. Remember, teeth move their best in a healthy environment and in individuals with excellent overall health. Be sure you have a well balanced diet.

Food to Avoid

Braces are attached to your teeth with an adhesive which normally will withstand the forces of eating. However, braces can be dislodged and wires bent or broken while eating certain foods. Hard foods, such as nuts, hard candy, corn chips and even crisp taco shells can harm your braces and should be avoided. Chewing ice cubes can also be very destructive to your appliances. Some foods such as whole apples, raw carrots, or celery are healthy snacks, but must be cut up to avoid damaging your braces.