Other hard foods to avoid include chips, taco shells, and even popcorn. Nuts, ice, and beef jerky can also be a problem. Also, don’t chew on non-food items like nails, pencils, and pens. Some foods, such as apples, carrots, and other healthy hard foods, can be adapted to be eaten with braces. Simply cut them into small pieces before eating. [2] X Expert Source Cara PiskaiOrthodontist Expert Interview. 20 December 2022.
Eating sugary foods is especially a problem when you’re wearing braces because plaque can build up in more places than normal, such as around the brackets.
It’s also a good idea to brush your teeth when you wake up and before you sleep. [7] X Expert Source Cara PiskaiOrthodontist Expert Interview. 20 December 2022.
If you have the clear, removable braces, you can just take them out and brush normally. Be sure to put them in their case to protect them. [9] X Research source
You can also rinse when you can’t brush. If you forgot to bring your toothbrush with you, the next best thing is rinsing. Fill your mouth with water, and swish it around thoroughly. Spit the water out. Brush when you’re next near your toothbrush.
After you’re done, be sure to rinse. Be gentle when brushing because you can break wires if you’re too rough. Clear ceramic brackets are also susceptible to breaking. [12] X Research source Brush invisible braces separately. Just use a bit of toothpaste to brush them, and then rinse them off. [13] X Research source Make sure you are brushing for at least 2 minutes—set a timer on your phone or put on your favorite song to make sure you are brushing long enough![14] X Expert Source Cara PiskaiOrthodontist Expert Interview. 20 December 2022.
A water flosser may also help. Certain models have special orthodontic tips included, so keep that in mind when selecting your device. There are also special flosses that are made out of individual strands that have a stiffer end that serve as a threader, connected to a spongy floss segment and a regular floss segment. These make cleaning between the teeth and around braces easier. [18] X Expert Source Cara PiskaiOrthodontist Expert Interview. 20 December 2022.
