Caring For Braces
Caring for braces means brushing and flossing thoroughly, easing soreness with soft foods and over-the-counter pain relievers, and protecting your braces from hard or sticky foods. At Advanced Orthodontics Everett, Dr. Lauren Lewandowski and our team show every patient how to keep their smile healthy throughout treatment.
A little daily care keeps your braces working their best and your teeth healthy underneath. It is simple once you know the routine, and our team walks every patient through it at the start of treatment. Here are the essentials for taking great care of your braces, so you finish treatment with a smile that is not just straight but truly healthy.
Keeping Your Teeth and Braces Clean
Brushing and flossing matter even more with braces, because food can get trapped around the brackets and wires. Brush gently after every meal, angling the brush to clean above and below each bracket, and floss daily using a floss threader or special orthodontic flosser. A fluoride mouth rinse adds extra protection against cavities and white spots. Good habits now mean a healthy, bright smile when your braces come off.
Easing Soreness
It is normal for your teeth to feel a little sore after braces are placed or adjusted. Stick to soft foods for a day or two, try over-the-counter pain relievers if you need them, and rinse with warm salt water to soothe your gums. Orthodontic wax smooths any spot that rubs against your cheek or lip. The soreness passes quickly, and it is a sign your treatment is working.
Protecting Your Braces
Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods that can damage your braces, and see our foods to avoid guide for the full list. If you play sports, wear an orthodontic mouthguard to protect your braces and your smile from impact. Keep up with your regular adjustment visits so we can catch and fix any small issues early. And if something does break between appointments, our emergency care page tells you exactly what to do.
Questions About Your Braces? Call Us in Everett
We are always happy to help you care for your smile. Call Advanced Orthodontics Everett at (425) 745-6322 or request a visit online. Proudly serving Everett, Mill Creek, Lynnwood, and the surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you may have questions about orthodontic care and what to expect along the way. This section offers clear, straightforward answers to help you understand how treatment works and how we support you through each step. It’s an easy way to learn more before your first visit and feel confident about your smile journey.
How should I brush my teeth with braces?
Brush gently after every meal, angling the brush above and below each bracket to clear trapped food, then floss daily with a floss threader or orthodontic flosser. A fluoride rinse adds extra protection.
What helps with soreness after an adjustment?
Soft foods, over-the-counter pain relievers, a warm saltwater rinse, and orthodontic wax for any spot that rubs. Soreness usually eases within a couple of days.