Life with Braces

Starting braces is a big step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Here’s what to know to take care of your braces, avoid delays, and stay comfortable during treatment.

What to Eat (and What to Avoid)

Some foods can break brackets or bend wires, so it’s important to make smart choices.

Avoid These Foods:

Chewy – bagels, licorice
Crunchy – popcorn, chips, ice
Sticky – caramel, chewing gum
Hard – nuts, hard candy
Biting into – whole apples, corn on the cob, raw carrots

Safe Foods to Enjoy:

Dairy – yogurt, soft cheese
Soft grains – pasta, rice, pancakes
Cooked veggies – mashed potatoes, steamed greens
Soft meats – chicken, meatballs
Fruits – bananas, applesauce
Treats – Jell-O, milkshakes, ice cream (no nuts)

What to Expect

Soreness – It’s normal to feel soreness the first few days after getting braces or adjustments. Stick to soft foods, use wax for rough spots, and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

Loose Teeth – Slight tooth movement and looseness are normal and temporary as your smile shifts into place.

Loose Wires or Brackets – Use a pencil eraser to gently push a wire back or cover it with wax. Save any broken pieces and call us to repair.

Protect Your Braces

Appliances like rubber bands, expanders, or retainers only work if used as directed. Damaged or forgotten appliances can slow down your treatment.

Playing Sports with Braces

You can absolutely still play! Just wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces. Let us know if you need help choosing one. If you’re injured, check your mouth and braces for damage and contact us right away.