Life With Braces
A few simple changes to your daily routine can help protect your braces, keep treatment on track, and
make your orthodontic experience as comfortable as possible.
Adjusting to Your New Braces
It’s normal for your teeth and mouth to feel a little different when you first get braces. You may experience some temporary soreness or tenderness as your teeth begin to move, but this typically improves as you adjust.
Your teeth may also feel slightly loose at times during treatment. This is a normal part of the orthodontic process as your teeth gradually move into their new positions.
Eating With Braces
You can still enjoy most of your favorite foods, but you'll need to be a little more careful while wearing braces. Avoid foods that are hard, sticky, crunchy, or especially chewy, as they can loosen or damage brackets and wires.
Foods such as popcorn, hard candy, chewing gum, ice, and other hard or sticky snacks are best avoided. Firmer foods like apples, carrots, and similar foods can usually be enjoyed when cut into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
Protecting Your Braces
Taking good care of your braces helps keep treatment progressing as planned. If a wire or bracket becomes loose or damaged, contact Scheele Orthodontics so our team can determine whether an appointment is needed.
You can continue participating in sports during treatment. For contact sports, we recommend wearing an appropriate mouthguard to help protect your teeth and orthodontic appliances.
Musicians can also continue playing wind and brass instruments, although there may be a brief adjustment period when braces are first placed.
We're Here Throughout Your Treatment
Getting used to braces doesn't take long, and our team is always available if you have questions or concerns along the way. Follow Dr. Scheele's instructions, take good care of your braces, and you'll be one step closer to the healthy, confident smile you've been working toward.
