Brushing and flossing after meals are essential for healthy teeth and gums with braces. Our team can recommend special toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss to make cleaning easier.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss threaders to reach around brackets and wires effectively.
Certain foods can damage braces or get stuck in brackets, so it’s best to avoid:
Bagels, licorice
Popcorn, chips, ice
Gum, caramel
Nuts, hard candies
Enjoy foods that are gentle on braces, like:
Yogurt, soft cheeses
Rice, pasta
Bananas, applesauce
Steamed spinach, mashed potatoes
Tender chicken, meatballs
It’s normal to feel a little sore after getting braces. Rinsing with warm salt water and using over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Any discomfort usually fades after the first week or two.
If a wire or band loosens, use a pencil eraser to gently push it back into place, then cover with dental wax until your next visit.
Good news! You can keep playing sports with braces—just make sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces. If there’s any injury to your mouth, check for loose teeth or damage and give us a call right away.
When you’re ready for a retainer, it’s important to wear it as directed to maintain your new smile.
Always take it out before meals and store it in its case.
Clean with warm water and a toothbrush every day to keep it fresh.
The palatal expander helps create space in the upper jaw for proper alignment. Here’s how to adjust it:
TADs are small titanium anchors that help guide tooth movement. They’re placed with local anesthesia, and any initial soreness is usually mild. Just brush around the TADs as you would with braces, and they’ll be removed when they’re no longer needed.
Our braces have helped patients achieve straighter, healthier smiles. Check out our transformations!
From start to finish, our patients have a lot to say about their smile journey!
Whether you need advice about your braces or a check-up, we’re here for you!
Smiles By Design Orthodontics
3149 Mallett Road
D’Iberville, MS 39540
