Life With Braces | Northeastern Braces

At Northeastern Braces, we want to make sure you get the best results from your orthodontic treatment. Life with braces is pretty much life as usual. But, there are a few important things to know!

Care For Your Orthodontic Appliances

Orthodontic treatment can only work if the rubber bands, headgear, reatainer, and other necessary appliances are consistently worn properly. If your appliances are damaged, it can increase the length of your treatment. Be sure to take proper care of your appliances.

Playing Sports with Braces

A common question for kids getting braces is, “Can I still play sports?”. Don’t worry, you can still play sports even while you are getting orthodntic treatment. In order to protect your teeth during treatment, we recommend wearing a mouthguard. If you are an athlete, be sure to tell your orthodontist so we can set you up with a proper and fitted mouthguard.

Brushing Your Teeth with Braces

Oral hygiene is an important part of your orthodontic treatment. Food can easily get trapped between appliances, which is why it’s so important to brush and floss after all your meals, as well as before you go to sleep. If you have questions about special toothpaste, floss, or toothbrush, be sure to ask!

Eating With Braces

Wearing braces does mean you’ll have to modify your diet, slightly! But, don’t worry, you’ll be eating all your favorite foods again soon! It’s best to avoid chewy foods, crunchy foods, sticky foods, and hard foods.

Food to avoid with braces:

  • Chewy food – licorice, chewy candy, bagels
  • Sticky food – caramel, gum
  • Hard food – hard candy, nuts
  • Crunchy food – popcorn, chips
  • Corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Food you CAN eat with braces:

  • Breads – tortillas, muffins, soft breads
  • Grains – pasta, rice
  • Dairy – cheese
  • Meat, poultry, seafood
  • Vegetables – potatoes, most cooked veggies
  • Fruits – bananas, applesauce, cut peaches