doctor's REFERRAL
schedule a free consultation
doctor's REFERRAL
schedule a free consultation

Take The

Orthodontic Treatment Quiz

Life With Braces

in Columbia, SC

schedule a free consultation
Life With Braces
After getting braces, you may wonder how your life will be affected. Will it be harder to eat? What about playing sports or taking care of your teeth? Rest assured, getting braces won’t drastically affect your daily life. In fact, with proper care and a few adjustments, life with braces can still be enjoyable.
schedule a free consultation
Life With Braces

Foods to Avoid While on Dental Braces

Eating with braces requires some modifications and avoiding certain types of foods. Some foods can get stuck in your braces or even damage them. It’s important to avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods, such as:

  • Hard candies or gum
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Ice
  • Caramel or taffy
  • Popcorn
  • Sugary drinks and desserts
  • Chewy candies
  • Chips
  • Gum
  • Highly acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes and soda

Foods You Can Eat While on Braces

You can still enjoy a wide variety of foods while wearing braces. It’s important to focus on soft and easily chewable options, such as:

  • Soft fruits like bananas, grapes or berries (Cut apple or pear into small pieces, if you want to eat these)
  • Cooked vegetables like mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli or carrots
  • Tender meats like fish, chicken or ground beef
  • Soft dairy products like yogurt or cottage cheese
  • Pasta and rice
  • Soft breads like pancakes, waffles or muffins
  • Smoothies and milkshakes
  • Soft grains like pasta, rice and quinoa

Dealing With Discomfort

Dealing with discomfort while wearing dental braces can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can use to manage the pain:

  • Use a cold compress to reduce inflammation and provide relief
  • Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
    Eat cold foods or drink cold beverages for temporary relief
  • Place hot peppermint tea bags on sore areas
  • Use heat pads on your face to help reduce jaw pain or discomfort
  • Apply orthodontic wax to the parts of your braces, irritating to prevent them from rubbing against the inside of your mouth.
  • Massage your gums to improve blood flow and help relieve pain
  • Use an analgesic tooth rinse
  • Avoid hard foods

I Have Loose Teeth, What Does It Mean?

It’s normal to experience some loosening of your teeth while wearing braces. This is a natural part of the teeth straightening process and occurs as your teeth shift into new positions. However, if you notice excessive looseness or movement of your teeth, it’s essential to contact your orthodontist.

Loose Wires and Bands

Sometimes, wires and bands on your braces may become loose or break. If this happens, don’t panic. Contact your orthodontist for an appointment to have them repaired. In the meantime, you can use the back of a spoon or a pencil eraser to push any protruding wires back into place or apply orthodontic wax to prevent discomfort.
Life With Braces

Playing Sports With Braces

If you’re an athlete, you may wonder how braces will affect your ability to play sports. The good news is that you can still participate in the activities you love while wearing braces. However, you must take some precautions to protect your braces and mouth from potential injuries:

  • Wear a mouthguard
  • Avoid contact sports
  • Use proper orthodontic equipment
  • Consider carrying a braces first aid kit all the time, including a wax, tweezers and a mirror

Dealing With Discomfort

  • Brush your teeth thoroughly after every meal
  • Floss daily, using a floss threader if needed
  • Use interdental brushes or water flossers to clean hard-to-reach areas
  • Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash regularly
  • Visit your orthodontist for regular check-ups and cleanings

Call Washington Orthodontics for Expert Braces Treatment in Columbia, SC

At Washington Orthodontics, we understand that adjusting to life with braces can be challenging. We’re committed to providing exceptional orthodontic care and support throughout your treatment journey.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment for dental braces!

Washington Orthodontics Columbia South Carolina orthodontic team