How to look after ceramic / metal braces?
First few days
For the first few days braces will take some getting used to, and some tweaks to your routines to ensure braces do their job and your teeth are kept healthy.
After the braces are put on, there can be some aching of the teeth. If this occurs mild painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used.
Sometimes the brace can rub on the cheeks, see below for instructions.
Brushing
Your brushing technique requires modifying to accommodate the braces. Brush at least twice a day, ideally three times to ensure the teeth are kept in ideal health.
- Use your normal toothbrush (electric or manual) to clean your teeth and braces.
- Start above the brace (making contact with the brace, tooth and gum), then progress to beneath the brace (making contact with the brace and tip of the tooth), brush side to side.
- Brush the remaining surfaces of your teeth as per normal
- Use toothpaste which has fluoride in it (most toothpastes contain fluoride)
Mouthwash and interdental cleaning
Use a fluoride mouthwash twice a day.
Use an interdental toothbrush to clean any remaining plaque off your teeth. Concentrate on the areas between your gums, the brackets and underneath the wire.
What food can I eat?
Please do eat! Your diet should remain relatively the same with some small changes to ensure the braces are not damaged.
Dont’s:
- Hard foods such as apples, carrots, crusty bread. If you are to eat hard foods please cut them into small pieces and chew them on your back teeth.
- Nuts, just don’t, they don’t like braces and braces don't like them.
- Chewing gum. Although they do not damage the braces, they do become entangled and are a nightmare to clean off.
Chocolate, sweets, fizzy drinks and acidic drinks should be reduced in their frequency and only a few times in the week, ideally with meals.
If there is a breakage please call the practice / email. We will endeavour to repair the brace, however each breakage adds time to the overall treatment duration.
What if I have problems?
After your brace has been fitted your teeth will feel tender, or even slightly wobbly, this is normal. Mild painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen will help with the discomfort.
If brackets or bands rub your lips and cheeks you may need to use wax, which is available from the practice.
You will still need to attend routine check up appointments with your dentist during your orthodontic treatment.