Patient Information
Everything You Need to Know About Orthodontic Treatment
Starting orthodontic treatment can raise many questions. This section provides clear, practical guidance to help you understand your treatment, care for your braces, and manage common situations. At Braces and Specialist Dental Clinic, all treatments are carried out by a Consultant Orthodontist, ensuring safe, well-planned, and effective care.
Do’s and Don’ts with Braces
Do’s
- Brush your teeth after every meal
- Use interdental brushes or floss
- Attend all scheduled appointments
- Follow instructions given by your orthodontist
Don’ts
- Avoid hard foods (nuts, ice, hard sweets)
- Avoid sticky foods (chewing gum, caramel)
- Do not bite directly into hard foods (cut into small pieces)
Following these guidelines helps prevent breakages and treatment delays.
Oral Hygiene with Braces
Maintaining Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment
Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- White spot lesions (permanent marks on teeth)
Recommended Routine
- Brush at least twice daily using fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between teeth using interdental brushes
- Rinse if recommended
Regular professional cleaning may also be advised during treatment.
Emergency Care
Orthodontic Emergencies – What to Do
Some minor issues can occur during treatment. Most can be managed temporarily until your next visit.
Loose bracket
- Avoid touching it
- Contact the clinic for advice
Poking wire
- Use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end
- If discomfort persists, contact the clinic
Broken appliance
- Avoid using the damaged appliance
- Schedule a visit for repair
Life with Braces
Adjusting to Braces – What to Expect
Initial Phase
- Mild discomfort
- Slight speech adjustment
Adaptation
Most patients adjust within a few days and continue normal routines.
Activities
- Braces do not prevent normal daily activities
- Mouthguards are recommended for sports
Retainers – After Braces Care
Retainers – Keeping Your Teeth in Position . After braces are removed, retainers are essential to maintain results.
Types
- Fixed retainers
- Removable retainers
Instructions
- Wear as advised
- Maintain proper cleaning
Retention is critical for long-term stability
Eating with Braces
Diet Guidelines During Orthodontic Treatment
Certain foods can damage braces or affect treatment progress.
Foods to Avoid
- Hard foods (nuts, ice)
- Sticky foods (toffee, chewing gum)
- Sugary snacks (increase risk of decay)
Recommended Foods
- Soft foods (rice, pasta, soft fruits)
- Cut fruits instead of biting directly