All About Braces Care and Oral Hygiene
Why Is Brushing and Flossing So Important During Orthodontic Treatment?
At Advanced Orthodontics in Burien, WA, Dr. Mohammad Mainayar emphasizes that maintaining excellent oral hygiene during treatment is essential. Braces create additional spaces where plaque and food particles can collect, increasing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation if not cleaned properly.
We recommend brushing after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily using floss threaders or orthodontic flossers. Patients who do not maintain proper oral hygiene may require more frequent professional cleanings with their general dentist. Adults with a history of gum disease should continue seeing their periodontist during orthodontic treatment to keep their gums healthy.
Healthy teeth and gums allow Dr. Mainayar to move teeth efficiently and safely, keeping treatment on track.
General Soreness
When your braces are first placed, it’s normal to experience mild soreness in your teeth and mouth for about three to five days. Teeth may feel tender when biting or chewing. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Tylenol (or what you normally take for minor discomfort), can help during this adjustment period.
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also feel irritated for one to two weeks as they adapt to the braces. We provide orthodontic wax to place over brackets or wires that cause irritation, helping reduce discomfort while your mouth adjusts.
Is It Normal for Teeth to Feel Loose?
Yes, slight tooth mobility during treatment is completely normal and expected. Teeth must gently loosen in order to move into their corrected positions. While this can feel unusual, there is no cause for concern.
Once orthodontic treatment is complete, the teeth will stabilize in their new, properly aligned positions. Dr. Mainayar carefully monitors this process at each visit to ensure safe and healthy tooth movement.
What Should I Do If a Wire, Bracket, or Band Comes Loose?
Occasionally, a wire, bracket, or band may loosen. If a wire is sticking out and causing irritation, you can carefully use the eraser end of a pencil to gently push it back into place. Orthodontic wax can also be applied to reduce discomfort.
If something breaks or irritation continues, contact our Burien office as soon as possible so we can schedule a repair appointment during regular office hours.
Rubber Bands, Appliances & Athletics
Successful orthodontic treatment is a partnership between you and Dr. Mainayar. Rubber bands and other prescribed appliances must be worn exactly as instructed to keep treatment progressing efficiently. Not wearing them consistently can delay results.
If you participate in sports, especially contact sports, wearing a protective mouthguard is very important. Let our team know about your activities, and we’ll recommend the best protection for your smile during treatment. Start your orthodontic treatment today, let professionals transform your smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
Keeping your smile healthy during orthodontic treatment is just as important as straightening your teeth. Below are answers to common questions patients in Burien, WA often ask about caring for their braces and protecting their oral health.
Can braces cause cavities?
Braces themselves do not cause cavities — plaque buildup does. Because brackets and wires create more areas for food to collect, it’s easier for plaque to form if brushing and flossing aren’t consistent. With proper hygiene and regular dental cleanings, most patients complete treatment without any issues.
What is the best toothbrush to use with braces?
We typically recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic-friendly head. Electric brushes can be especially helpful because they provide consistent, thorough cleaning around brackets and along the gumline.
Is a water flosser worth it for braces?
Many patients find water flossers (like Waterpik®) very helpful during orthodontic treatment. While they shouldn’t fully replace traditional flossing, they are excellent for flushing out food particles and reducing plaque around brackets and under wires.
How often should I get professional dental cleanings while wearing braces?
Most patients continue with cleanings every six months. However, if you’re prone to plaque buildup or gum inflammation, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.
Can I use whitening toothpaste while I have braces?
Whitening toothpaste is generally safe, but it won’t whiten the areas underneath the brackets. For even whitening results, most patients wait until after braces are removed before pursuing whitening treatments.