Brace Care: How to take care of your braces
Taking care of your braces is critical to ensuring they perform properly and minimizing any potential problems. In addition to the advice provided by our practice staff, the recommendations below will assist you in correctly caring for your braces. Remember, if you have any issues, do not wait until your next checkup to seek help.
Fixed Brace:
Do
- After each meal, brush your teeth and braces completely.
- Brush your teeth and braces twice a day at the very least.
- Clean under the wire with an inter-space brush.
- Once a day, use fluoride mouthwash.
- If your brace is sharp, apply orthodontic wax.
Don’t:
- Adjust your brace.
Consume sugary or acidic foods and beverages. - Chew gum or eat hard or sticky foods.
Play sports without a gumshield.
Removable Brace:
Do
- Wear your brace at all times, including while eating and sleeping.
- Brush your teeth and brace after each meal.
- When not in use, keep your brace in a protected box.
- If you lose or break your brace, contact the surgery.
Don’t:
- Wear your brace for swimming or contact sports.
- Hold the brace by the wires or bend them.
- Consume sugary or acidic food and drinks.
- Click your brace with your tongue.
Twinblock Functional Brace
Do:
- Wear your brace 24 hours a day.
- Bite the blocks together properly at all times.
- Try to eat with the brace in.
- Brush your teeth and braces after each meal.
- Keep your brace in a protective box when not in your mouth.
- Contact the surgery if you lose or break your brace.
Don’t:
- Wear your brace for swimming or contact sports.
- Hold the brace by the wires or bend them.
- Consume sugary or acidic food and drinks.
- Click your brace with your tongue.
Retainers
Do:
- Wear your retainer exactly as directed.
- Using a toothbrush and liquid soap, clean the retainer.
- Retainer-Brite should be used at least once a week.
- During the day, keep the retainers in a safe place.
- Bring your retainers with you to each visit.
Don’t:
- Eat or drink while wearing the brace.
- Use toothpaste or hot water to clean the brace.
- Allow your dog to get a hold of them.
- More information and care instructions on how to properly care for your braces and retainers may be found on our Resources page.