Important advice for people wearing fixed orthodontic braces

by Richard Siggers Dental Help and Advice

Do braces hurt?

Some tenderness for the first few days is normal. Painkillers may be used where needed. If sore spots develop on the inside of the lips / cheeks softened relief wax can be applied to smooth the offending sharp bit.

What about cleaning of braces?

It is very important to clean well to avoid the serious long-term problem of permanent staining or decay around brackets
Your treatment may be terminated at the discretion of the orthodontist if you do not clean well enough
Cleaning should be done 3 times a day with a session lasting about 5 minutes
Cleaning should involve the tongue, gums and all tooth surfaces and should be according to the demonstration you have been given
Use an alcohol-free mouthwash once a day, before bed is best
Use disclosing tablets once a week to identify problem areas

Further advice is in this frequently asked questions section

Please note: Your treatment may be terminated at the discretion of the orthodontist if you do not clean well enough.

What can I eat with braces?

Hard, sticky or crunchy foodstuffs must be avoided such as crusty bread, pizza crusts, toffees, boiled sweets, ice cubes, nuts etc.
No chewing gum
Foodstuffs such as apples, carrots etc need to be cut up into small pieces
Avoid fizzy drinks altogether. Soft chocolate may be allowed
Do not bite fingernails or chew pens and pencils!
Avoid products with high sugar levels. Choose diluted or artificially sweetened drinks or even better, water.

Breakages of the braces may extend your treatment time significantly and are to be avoided. All breakages should be reported immediately to the surgery.

If you follow the above guidelines and the instructions you received you will have something to smile about!!!