DO
Clean your braces, teeth and especially gums 3 times per day
Call us if you are experiencing any sharp wires so we can trim them or tuck them away
Use pain relief when needed
Use brace wax to avoid any initial discomfort.
DO NOT
Do not eat any chewy, hard, crunchy or sticky foods as this will break the brace
Do not miss appointments; the NHS guidelines are if you have more than 3 breakages or 3 missed appointments then we have to discontinue treatment.
Do not drink fizzy or sugary drinks as this will cause permanent marks on the teeth that will eventually turn brown.
Do not pick at the brace or bite pens or nails.
How often should you see your orthodontist?
Your orthodontist will usually check your braces every 8weeks. These visits are vital because they allow adjustments to keep your teeth moving in the right direction.
If you can’t make an appointment, call the practice as soon as possible to reschedule.
Missing or being late to appointments slows progress.
NHS rules say treatment must be stopped if you miss more than 3 appointments or have 3 or more brace breakages.
How can you stop your brace from breaking?
A broken brace isn’t just frustrating, it can set your treatment back by up to 3 months. Teeth move slowly (around 1mm per month) but can slip back quickly if your brace isn’t working.
To avoid breakages:
Tell your orthodontist right away if something breaks.
Skip hard or sticky foods (especially chewing gum).
Cut food into smaller pieces and chew with your back teeth.
Don’t bite your nails, chew pens, or pick at your brace.
How do you keep your teeth and braces clean?
Good cleaning is essential to avoid permanent damage to your teeth while wearing braces.
Brush at least 3 times a day for 5 minutes ,morning, after lunch, and before bed.
Use a small-headed toothbrush, and ask about a Brace Care Pack for specialist tools.
Use fluoride mouthwash once a day, but not right after brushing.
Cut down on sugary and acidic snacks and drinks between meals.
What can you do if your braces feel sore or uncomfortable?
Some discomfort is completely normal, especially when your braces are first fitted or tightened.
Rubbing or irritation usually settles after about a week. Orthodontic wax can help in the meantime.
Your teeth may feel sore for a few days. You can take ibuprofen or paracetamol (following dosage instructions).
Stick to a soft diet for the first day after adjustments.
Taking pain relief about an hour before a tightening appointment can help, too.
How can you protect your braces during sports?
If you play contact sports, wearing a gum shield is a must. It protects both your teeth and your braces. Ask at reception about special gumshields made to fit comfortably over braces.
Why might you need to wear elastics with your braces?
Sometimes your orthodontist will give you elastics to wear. These help move teeth into the right position or prevent them from moving the wrong way. They only work if you wear them exactly as prescribed, so consistency is really important.
Do you still need to see your regular dentist during orthodontic treatment?
Yes! Even though your orthodontist is focusing on moving your teeth, your regular dentist still plays a vital role. They’ll make sure your gums and teeth stay healthy throughout your treatment.
What’s the key to staying on track with your orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment works best when you and your orthodontist are a team. Keep your appointments, take care of your braces, clean your teeth well, and follow any instructions you’re given. That way, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays, and get to your new smile faster.
