Caring For Your Braces: Dos and Don’ts

Getting braces is an exciting time! You’ve chosen to commit to your oral health and a future with the smile you’ve already dreamed of. Morita Orthodontics has guided you to the best dental treatment options in Honolulu & Aiea, and the journey has begun. While it’s true that the braces themselves do the work of shifting your teeth, there are still important factors toward a successful treatment that lie in your hands. Properly caring for your braces is a top priority for optimal results. Morita Orthodontics will be here to support you throughout your treatment, but be sure to keep in mind the following dos and don’ts for braces care for the most successful outcome.

What To Do To Care For Braces 

You can do certain things while wearing braces that will make the experience more comfortable and effective. Keep these things in mind after you begin treatment to ensure you get the results you want!

 Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is always important, but certain considerations need to be taken when wearing braces. 

• Brushing: Brush your teeth after every meal and before bed. Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. If you’re unable to brush after eating, rinse out your mouth with water to wash away left-behind food.
• Flossing: Carefully floss each day to make sure food and plaque are removed from between your teeth and around your braces. If traditional floss is difficult to use, try a water flosser or an interdental brush to thoroughly clean around brackets and under wires.
• Rinsing: Rinse your mouth out daily with an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep the mouth clean and fresh.

Diet Habits

When wearing braces, changes will need to be made to your dietary habits for both the safety of the braces hardware and your oral hygiene. Choose braces-friendly foods that are soft and easy to chew. Instead of trying to consume large pieces, cut your food into smaller pieces to avoid excessive pressure being put on brackets. Be sure to stay hydrated. Not only is it good for your overall health, but it will help wash away food particles to keep your braces clean. 

Regular Checkups

The good news is, you’re not in this alone! Morita Orthodontics will be with you every step of the way. Be sure to schedule a consultation and attend all orthodontic follow-up appointments for adjustment and check-ups. Doing so will make sure you stay on track for the planned timeline of treatment. If you have a problem with your braces, make sure to contact the office as soon as possible so we can help!

What Not To Do When Wearing Braces

Now that you know what to do, here is what you should not do when you have braces. 

 Food Don’ts

• Don’t munch on foods that are sticky, chewy, hard, or crunchy. These can damage braces or get stuck. They are also more difficult to clean. 
• Don’t overload on sugary foods and drinks. These can lead to tooth decay and decalcification, which wears away at tooth enamel. 
• Don’t get discouraged about missing out on some of your favorite snacks. Remind yourself that braces are temporary, but a great outcome will last forever! 

 Habit Don’ts

• Refrain from using your teeth for anything other than eating. This means no nail-biting, chewing on pens, or opening things with your teeth. 
• Don’t play sports or participate in physical activity without protecting your teeth with a custom mouthguard. 

Care Don’ts 

• Don’t skip brushing or flossing, even when you’re traveling or in the middle of a busy day. Prepare for success by bringing along a travel set with all your essentials. 
• Don’t let things go. If you feel any pain or a bracket feels loose, Contact Morita Orthodontics immediately for assistance. For mild discomfort, you can manage soreness by rinsing with warm salt water, using orthodontic wax, or using over-the-counter pain relievers. 

 Orthodontic Care Awaits at Morita Orthodontics in Honolulu 

With a few simple lifestyle changes and expert care at Morita Orthodontics, you’ll be flashing that gorgeous smile in no time. Scott L. Morita has extensive training in orthodontic care and advanced technologies such as Invisalign, clear braces, and more. With his expertise and a compassionate support team at both of our convenient locations, you can guarantee the best orthodontic experience around. 

Check out our flexible dental financial options and insurance to find the best payment plan for you. If you’re running late for 5 minutes to our office, you don’t have to worry about getting rescheduled. Here’s a gallery of all our patients with their beautiful smiles.

If you’ve been considering orthodontic care, even if it’s your first visit, schedule an appointment by giving us a call at the Honolulu office at (808) 941-3355 or the Aiea office at (808) 486-5505 today for a consultation. Take a look at some FAQs about orthodontics, if you have any further questions.