Life With Braces

AT PRINE WE MAKE IT FUN!

The technologies used to straighten teeth and create a healthy, beautiful smile have changed a lot in the past decade. Today, having braces is much more comfortable than it used to be and that is especially true when you get your braces at Prine Orthodontics. Dr. Prine takes a patient-focused approach and uses technologically advanced options that make having braces easier than ever.

THE FIRST FEW DAYS after each appointment some patients experience a little tenderness of the teeth and mouth. Their teeth might even feel a little loose but that’s actually a good thing. After all – they’re on the move. You may want to take some form of pain reliever (what you would normally take for a headache) during this time, but even having a cold drink or enjoying a little ice cream can also provide instant relief.

Helpful Tips

  • We recommend you use a soft bristled toothbrush with a small head. Electric and sonic toothbrushes are also great.
  • Brush your teeth after meals and snacks.
  • If you have eaten while away from home, use your interdental brush to dislodge any food that may get caught around your braces.
  • Rinsing with water is another way to dislodge food from your braces, and to keep sugar from sitting on your teeth.
  • Floss your teeth at least once a day.
  • We recommend that you have a check up with your dentist every 6 months.

Eating With Braces

 

You’ve probably heard from friends and family members who have worn braces that you won’t be able to eat some of your favorite foods while you’re in treatment. That’s true - if your favorite food is hard candy:-). Truth is - you can eat most anything as long as you avoid anything that might cause you to lose a bracket, break a wire, or get tangled up in goo. Here’s a simple, helpful guide to help you avoid any issues. Feel free to print this list out and put it up on the fridge.


Foods to AVOID with braces:


  • Chewy foods — bagels, licorice
  • Crunchy foods — popcorn, chips, ice
  • Sticky foods — caramel candies, chewing gum
  • Hard foods — nuts, hard candies
  • Foods you have to bite into — corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Foods you CAN eat with braces:


  • Dairy — soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks
  • Breads — soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins without nuts
  • Grains — pasta, soft cooked rice
  • Meats/poultry — soft cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats
  • Seafood — tuna, salmon, crab cakes
  • Vegetables — mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans
  • Fruits — applesauce, bananas, sliced fruit, most berries (but watch out for seeds)
  • Treats — ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, cake