Orthodontic Braces for All Ages

To prevent damage to your brackets and wires or food from becoming trapped between them, there is a short list of foods to avoid when wearing braces. The foods to avoid are:

• Chewy foods such as fruit leathers, beef jerky, or bagels
• Highly crunchy foods like raw carrots, chips, raw celery, and popcorn
• Sticky foods like caramel candy, licorice, and marshmallows
• Very hard foods like hard candy, hard breadsticks, or pizza crust
• Any food that requires biting, such as apples or corn on the cob. These foods can still be enjoyed by slicing the apples or removing the corn from the cob.

Here are the step-by-step instructions for proper brushing and flossing when wearing braces:

1. Before brushing, do a quick rinse with water. This will dislodge any food particles stuck between the wires or brackets.
2. Brush beginning at the gum line, using a 45-degree angle of approach. As you move towards the brackets brush from both the top and the bottom, ensuring that the bristles reach under the wires and around the brackets. This process may take some extra time in the beginning, but once you are used to it, it will be routine for you.
3. Follow up with a thorough flossing. You will need to use precise and careful flossing technique to make sure you do not dislodge or loosen the brackets or wires. Your doctor will help you how to perfect your flossing technique during your appointment.

After brushing, floss thoroughly. Be sure to use a precise and careful technique to avoid dislodging or loosening the brackets or wires. Always let your Space City Orthodontics doctor know if you need help or guidance on perfecting your flossing technique during your appointment.

Generally speaking, braces aren’t painful. However, immediately after you get them there may be a little soreness or discomfort. This is completely normal and temporary.

To relieve soreness and inflammation, it can help to rinse with a saltwater solution. Simply dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a full cup of lukewarm water, then swish it in your mouth for a few minutes. If you still feel sore, it’s ok to take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®). One more tip: using your dental wax can help with some of the discomfort in your lips, cheeks, or tongue in the weeks after getting braces.

In the past, orthodontists faced challenges in treating severe bite problems and patients with missing teeth, as they required external anchor points to adjust misaligned teeth accurately. Unfortunately, treatments such as headgear and external braces were unsightly and inconvenient. However, the introduction of Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) has revolutionized orthodontic treatment.

By attaching an anchor to the jawbone, TADs provide an extra internal anchor point that eliminates the need for uncomfortable treatments like headgear. TADs are a safe and effective solution for patients requiring more precise orthodontic treatment. It’s important to note that TADs are not for everyone, and your Space City Orthodontics doctor will advise you about whether they’re suitable for you during your consultation.

Most patients will complete braces treatment in 12 to 24 months. It varies by individual, however, because each smile is different. When we start treatment, we can give you a good estimate of how long you’ll wear braces.  

Then, a few months into your treatment, we’ll have an even better idea of how things are progressing. At that point, we’ll give you an even better estimate of how much time is left in your treatment.  

Of course! Ceramic braces, for example, are a popular option when you want a bit more discreet approach. They’re very similar to traditional metal braces—we use brackets and wires here, too. The difference is that instead of stainless steel, ceramic brackets are made of a white or clear ceramic material that better blends with your smile.

It depends on which braces you choose, the length of time your treatment lasts, and other considerations unique to your smile. Space City Orthodontics offers payment plans, and we’ll work with your insurance to optimize your benefits to help you work out an affordable approach to ensure you get the care you need.