Life with Braces
Welcome to your orthodontic journey! Whether you have traditional braces or clear aligners, we’re here to help you navigate treatment with confidence. Here’s everything you need to know about living with braces.
Your First Few Days with Braces
It’s normal to experience an adjustment period. Here’s what to expect and how to stay comfortable.
Days 1-3
Your teeth and mouth may feel tender or sore. This is completely normal and means your braces are working!
Eat soft foods
Use orthodontic wax on irritated spots
Take over-the-counter pain reliever if needed
Week 1
You’ll start getting used to having braces. Your mouth is adapting and discomfort is decreasing.
Eat soft foods
Use orthodontic wax on irritated spots
Take over-the-counter pain reliever if needed
Month 1+
Braces feel normal! You’re in your routine and on your way to an amazing smile.
Eat soft foods
Use orthodontic wax on irritated spots
Take over-the-counter pain reliever if needed
Foods: What to Eat & What to Avoid
Protect your braces and stay comfortable by making smart food choices.
Foods You Can Enjoy
Foods You Can Enjoy
- • Yogurt
- • Mashed potatoes
- • Smoothies
- • Soft pasta
- • Oatmeal
- • Scrambled eggs
- • Soup
- • Pudding
Regular Diet (Once Adjusted)
- • Soft breads
- • Tender meats
- • Seafood
- • Rice & grains
- • Soft fruits
- • Cooked vegetables
- • Cheese
- • Pancakes
Foods to Avoid
Hard Foods (Can Break Brackets)
- • Hard candy
- • Ice
- • Nuts
- • Popcorn
- • Hard pretzels
- • Corn on the cob
- • Hard crackers
- • Carrots (raw)
Sticky & Chewy Foods (Get Stuck)
- • Caramel
- • Gum
- • Taffy
- • Gummy candies
- • Licorice
- • Tootsie Rolls
- • Starburst
- • Bagels (hard)
Can I Ever Have These Foods?
Some foods can be modified! For example:
Apples: Cut into thin slices instead of biting into them
Corn: Cut kernels off the cob
Pizza: Cut into small pieces (avoid hard crusts)
Sandwiches: Cut into quarters for easier eating
Daily Oral Care with Braces
Excellent oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment.
Your Daily Routine
1
Brush After Every Meal
Spend 2-3 minutes brushing all surfaces of your teeth, brackets, and gums. Use a soft-bristled brush at a 45-degree angle.
2
Floss Daily
Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to clean between teeth and under wires. Water flossers are also very effective!
3
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with water or fluoride mouthwash to remove any remaining food particles and strengthen enamel.
Essential Tools
Soft-bristled toothbrush
Replace every 3 months or when bristles fray
Fluoride toothpaste
Protects against cavities
Floss threaders or orthodontic floss
Makes flossing with braces easier
Interdental brush (proxy brush)
Cleans around brackets and wires
Helpful Additions
Water flosser
Excellent for cleaning around braces
Fluoride mouthwash
Extra protection for your teeth
Orthodontic wax
Soothes any irritated areas
Travel toothbrush kit
For brushing on-the-go
Sports & Activities
Don’t let braces hold you back! Stay active while protecting your smile.
Wear a Mouthguard
If you play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect both your braces and your mouth from injury.
Ask us about orthodontic mouthguards designed for braces
Replace if damaged or if fit changes
Clean after each use
Sports You Can Play
You can continue virtually all activities during orthodontic treatment!
Basketball, soccer, football (with mouthguard)
Swimming and water sports
Running and track
Tennis, golf, gymnastics
Dance, cheerleading, martial arts
Common Issues & Quick Fixes
Know how to handle minor issues that may arise during treatment.
Poking Wire
Loose Bracket
Solution: If a bracket comes loose but stays on the wire, leave it in place and cover with wax if irritating. Call us to schedule a repair appointment.
Soreness After Adjustment
Solution: This is normal! Eat soft foods for a day or two, and take over-the-counter pain reliever as needed. The soreness means your teeth are moving.
Irritated Cheeks or Lips
Solution: Apply orthodontic wax to the bracket or wire causing irritation. Your mouth will toughen up over time. Rinse with warm salt water to help healing.
Lost Elastic/Rubber Band
Solution: Replace it with a new one from your supply. If you run out, call us for more. Wear elastics exactly as instructed for best results!
When to Call Us
Contact our office if you experience severe pain, a broken appliance, or anything that concerns you.
(617) 484-3260
Questions About Life with Braces?
We’re here to help! Contact our team anytime with questions or concerns.
Call us at (617) 484-3260 or visit us at 11 Alexander Ave, Belmont, MA 02478