Eating with Braces

When you first get your braces, your teeth and mouth will feel tender for a few days. During this time, stick to soft foods and avoid anything tough, chewy, or crunchy. As you adjust, you’ll be able to eat most foods again—but some foods should always be avoided to protect your braces.

Foods to Avoid

• Ice (even if you think you’re careful)

• Hard candies (e.g., Jolly Ranchers, Snickers, etc.)

• Gum of any kind

• Hard chips (like Doritos)

• Carrots, apples, pears—unless cut into small pieces

• Popcorn kernels (especially from the bottom of the bag)

• Meat on the bone—cut meat off before eating

• Corn on the cob—cut kernels off before eating

• Tough breads (pizza crust, bagels, French bread)—break into bite-sized pieces

• Non-food items (pens, pencils, fingernails)

  
  

Braces-Friendly Foods

• Baked chips

• Baked fish or fish sticks

• Mashed or baked potatoes

• Burritos

• Soft cakes, pies, or donuts

• Cheese (all kinds, including puffs or balls)

• Chicken (boneless or tender pieces)

• Tender steak or ribs (cut small)

• Soft fruits like pears

• French fries
  

General Soreness

Mild soreness or pressure is normal for 3–5 days after braces are placed or adjusted. Rinsing with cold water may help. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also provide relief. Lips, cheeks, and tongue may feel irritated for a week or two; orthodontic wax can help. We will show you how to use it.

Loosening of Teeth

It’s normal for teeth to feel loose during treatment. This means they are moving into the correct position. Once aligned, they will become stable again.

Athletics & Sports

If you play sports, please let us know. A protective mouthguard is strongly recommended for contact sports. In case of a facial injury, check your mouth and braces immediately and call our office to schedule an exam.

Oral Hygiene with Braces 

Brushing and flossing are more important than ever during orthodontic treatment. Keeping your teeth and gums clean helps prevent decay, gum disease, and staining.

Brushing

• Brush all three tooth surfaces: outer, inner, and chewing surfaces.

• Hold your toothbrush at a 45° angle to the gumline.

• Brush three teeth at a time, ensuring each is free of food and plaque before moving on.

• Pay special attention to the area between the braces and gumline.

Flossing

Flossing with braces takes practice but is essential. Two options:

• Superfloss (pre-threaded orthodontic floss)

• Regular floss with a floss threader

Steps:

1. Guide floss under the archwire.

2. Wrap floss around one tooth and gently move up and down from gumline to wire, repeating several times.

3. Repeat on the neighboring tooth.

4. Continue across the entire arch.

Emergencies

If you experience:

• A broken bracket

• Loose or poking wire

• Irritation that does not improve with wax
  

Please call our office right away. We’ll make every effort to address the issue quickly and keep you comfortable.

Call us at: 323-325-5641