Living with braces
The Orthodontic Practice, Liverpool

Our Orthodontists will give you advice about looking after your brace and teeth. On this page we have included some handy tips to help whilst living with braces.

CONTACT US

Brushing your teeth

Don’t be afraid to brush your teeth!

It is very important that you take the time and effort needed to keep your teeth and braces clean. This will avoid problems such as tooth decay and inflamed gums. It is also important to keep attending your regular dental check-ups with your dental team during your Orthodontic treatment.

LEARN MORE

Looking after your brace

It is important that you clean your teeth and the brace thoroughly after each meal. It is best to leave around one hour before brushing and you should pay special attention to every tooth and the gum line around it.

For removable appliances, our Orthodontist will be able to show you the best techniques for cleaning your aligner or brace. Clean your appliance over a sink full of water to avoid damage if you drop it. Use a separate toothbrush for cleaning your brace and gently brush the brace with toothpaste rinsing it thoroughly with fresh water.

LEARN MORE

Maintenance and tightening appointments

After your initial fitting and each adjusting appointment, it will take you a few days to get used to your brace. Your brace may feel uncomfortable and tight against your teeth due to the pressure from the brace, painkillers can help.

Some parts of the brace can also cause discomfort to your gums and lips, our Orthodontist can give you a clear wax to place on the brace.

If after a few days any part of your brace is causing continual soreness, get in touch with the practice.

LEARN MORE

Contact sports

If you have a removable appliance, it is best to take it out before any sport and put it back in straight after.

If you cannot remove your brace, use a mouthguard to protect the brace and your teeth. Learn more by clicking below or speak to our friendly Reception team.

Contact us

Eating with braces

Eating the wrong foods can damage or break your brace, we would advise keeping to soft foods for the first few days.

Whatever type of brace you have, you should avoid sticky, chewy and sugary foods. Chewing gum is not recommended as it can stick to your brace. Avoid hard foods such as whole apples, raw carrots, baguettes, and crusty rolls. These foods can break the wires and brackets.

Food may build up in the brackets and in between your teeth so maintaining a regular and thorough cleaning regime will avoid any embarrassing food between the teeth.

Avoid fizzy drinks and natural fruit juices, as these are often high in sugar which can lead to tooth decay. Fizzy drinks can also stain the brackets of your brace. If you do drink these types of drinks, use a straw. Water and plain milk are the safest drinks.

Contact us
Patient reviews
5.0
Reviews

Thank you. Your submission has been received, we will get back to you as soon as possible.

x