7 Tips for Teens with Braces
is a significant step toward achieving a healthy, beautiful smile, but it can also be an adjustment—especially for teenagers balancing school, activities, and social life. Learning how to care for braces and adapt to life with them is key to ensuring a smooth treatment process and successful results. That’s why we recommend consulting with our orthodontist in Coralville and Iowa City, IA.
In the meantime, here are some top tips to help teens thrive while wearing braces.
1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is more critical than ever when you have metal or ceramic braces. Food particles and plaque can easily get trapped around the brackets and wires, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to clean around the brackets and under the wires.
Using an interdental brush or a water flosser can make cleaning these hard-to-reach areas much easier. Flossing daily is essential, too—threader floss or pre-threaded flossers can be helpful tools.
2. Watch What You Eat
Certain foods can damage braces, so it’s important to adjust your diet during orthodontic treatment. Avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods, such as caramel, gum, popcorn, and nuts, as these can break brackets and wires.
Cut raw fruits and vegetables into small pieces and avoid biting directly into hard items like apples or corn on the cob. Staying mindful of your food choices will help you avoid unnecessary trips to our for repairs.
3. Use Orthodontic Wax for Comfort
It’s common to experience some discomfort when you first get orthodontic braces or after an adjustment. If the brackets or wires irritate the inside of your cheeks or lips, orthodontic wax can provide relief. Simply roll a small piece of wax between your fingers and press it onto the offending bracket or wire. This creates a smooth barrier that prevents irritation and helps you feel more comfortable.
4. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Occasionally, a wire may poke out or a bracket may come loose. If this happens, don’t panic. Keep an orthodontic emergency kit with you, which can include orthodontic wax, a small mirror, a pair of tweezers, and a nail clipper to cut poking wires. Schedule an appointment with our orthodontist in Coralville and Iowa City, IA, as soon as possible to fix the issue.
5. Wear Your Rubber Bands as Directed
If our orthodontist prescribes rubber bands to correct your bite, wearing them as directed is crucial for achieving the best results. Not wearing them consistently can delay your treatment and prolong the time you’ll need braces. Keep spare rubber bands on hand, so you’re always prepared.
6. Protect Your Braces During Sports
If you play sports, wearing a mouth guard is essential to protect both your teeth and your braces. There are special orthodontic mouth guards designed to fit comfortably over braces while offering excellent protection. Speak with our orthodontist about the best options for your sport.
7. Stay Positive
Wearing dental braces is temporary, and the end result—a straight, confident smile—is worth the effort. If you feel self-conscious about your braces, remember that many of your peers are likely going through the same experience. Focus on the long-term benefits and know that your smile will be healthier and more beautiful because of the treatment.
Schedule an Orthodontic Appointment
With these tips, teens can make the most of their orthodontic journey. Following our orthodontist’s advice and practicing good habits will help ensure a successful treatment process and a stunning smile that lasts a lifetime. To learn more, call Mergen Orthodontics to schedule an appointment with our orthodontist in Iowa City and Coralville, IA. You may also fill out our online contact form and a member of our team will reach out to you soon.