Irving Braces | Irving, TX | 972.258.1617
Getting braces is the easy part; however maintaining them requires some work. To ensure that your treatment flows smoothly it is essential that you follow these guidelines.
Eating
Many patients worry that because they have braces they can no longer eat for two to three years; fortunately, this is just a myth! The truth is, you can enjoy many of the treats which you love; however you will need to pay special attention to those foods which will damage your newly acquired braces!
What to Avoid:
Hard Foods - Anything that is hard cannot be chewed with braces on. It is important to remember that braces are very fragile, and hard foods can break your brackets off. Damaged appliances will also extend your treatment time, which can lead to increased risk of cavities and stained teeth.
Sticky Foods - Sticky foods can pull your brackets right off your tooth!
Foods High in Sugar - Braces make brushing your teeth hard enough. If too much sugar feeds the bacteria then your chances of cavities also increase. If you do get a sweet-tooth, just remember to brush your teeth right after!
What to Eat:
Dairy – soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks
Breads – soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins w/o 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, fruit juice
Treats – ice cream w/o nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, soft cake
Attention Athletes!
Good News! Athletes, you can still engage in after-school sports while getting orthodontic treatment. However, if you are undergoing treatment you must take precaution when playing contact-sports such as football, basketball, etc. In order to protect your braces and your teeth, we suggest that you use a mouth guard for safety. Using a mouth guard can prevent broken brackets, cut lips, bent wires.
You’ve already invested thousands of dollars in your orthodontic treatment, so don’t let it go to waste! Brushing and flossing on a regular-basis cannot be emphasized any more. Now is the time when brushing and flossing effectively count the most. The absence of proper hygiene can lead to teeth staining and increased plaque-build up. When plaque builds up around the appliances, it can cause scarring and spotting on your teeth. These scars and spots are usually permanent and ruin the appearance of the teeth. Therefore, it is vital that you brush after meals and floss on a consistent basis.
