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It’s very important to maintain good oral hygiene, especially when you are undertaking orthodontic treatment. Braces make it easier for pieces of food and plaque to get trapped in the brackets of your braces. We recommend brushing and flossing for 5 minutes at least twice a day. When brushing your teeth with braces, use a toothbrush with a soft head to reach those tricky areas. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle, and gently brush your entire gum line. Then turn your toothbrush at a downward angle on the top of your brackets, and then at an upward angle to clean the bottom of your brackets. Flossing is also essential. We know it can be a challenge with braces, but it’s not impossible. If flossing tape is too tricky, use floss threaders or interdental brushes.
Related Faqs
Do braces hurt?
Everybody experiences braces differently. There may be some discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the new pressure on your teeth. You may also feel your new braces rubbing against your inner cheek. This should all disappear in a few days.If the tenderness continues, try dissolving one teaspoon of salt in lukewarm water. Swish and gargle this solution in your mouth for a few minutes – and remember not to swallow! If this doesn’t help, use painkillers and orthodontic wax to relieve any discomfort until you get used to your new braces. We are always happy to help patients who are experiencing any aches or pains.
How long will I need to wear braces?
How long you require braces treatment really depends on your teeth and your bite. When our patients come in for their first consultation we take X-rays and scans to determine your personalised treatment plan. Your treatment plan will provide advice on how long treatment will take to get the best possible outcome.
Can I still play sports while having braces on?
Absolutely! We understand the importance of an active lifestyle and your treatment shouldn’t stop you from participating in the sports you love. If you are concerned a particular activity may cause damage to your mouth whilst in treatment, we recommend a mouthguard that can be easily fitted over your braces or aligners. Our team can help with this! We offer a “boil and bite” mouthguard service whilst in treatment that can conform to your ever-changing teeth profile.
If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?
How long you require braces treatment really depends on your teeth and your bite. When our patients come in for their first consultation we take X-rays and scans to determine your personalised treatment plan. Your treatment plan will provide advice on how long treatment will take to get the best possible outcome.
How often do I need to get my braces adjusted?
We like to see you in the clinic approximately every 6 weeks for a check up to make sure your treatment is progressing well and according to your treatment plan.
If I have braces, do I still need to see my dentist?
We recommend seeing your general dentist every 6 months for a check up. Bring one of our dental check up cards with you at your next dentist visit, ask your dentist to sign the card, bring it with you to your next TOC appointment and we'll reward you with a movie voucher!
Can I still have braces if I have missing teeth?
Yes, of course! We tailor personalised treatment to meet the needs and individual set of circumstances.
Do teeth need to be removed when getting braces?
Not necessarily. It really depends on the individual. There are some cases where baby teeth or permanent teeth need to be removed. We pride ourselves on being a non-extraction practice wherever possible. In some more complex cases however it is necessary to consider removal of teeth to ensure the very best outcome is achieved. This is carefully decided on an individual basis and only indicated if no other alternative is available.
What foods can I and can’t I eat while wearing braces?
We recommend avoiding hard and cruncy foods like apples, carrots or crunchy bread. We recommend completey avoiding the following: chewy foods like licorice or bagels, crunchy snacks such as popcorn and chips, foods that are sticky – chewing gum or lollies, anything hard like nuts or hard lollies and foods that require biting into, such as corn on the cob need to be avoided.The best foods to eat with braces are those that are low in sugar and don't require too much chewing. This includes…
- Bread, mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, pancakes
- Soft and hearty foods like soup and stews
- Cheese, yoghurt and smoothies
- Fruits and vegetables cooked until soft or cut/grated into bite-sized pieces
- Meat, poultry, fish and protein-rich foods cooked until soft or tender
Do braces take two years to complete?
This really depends on the individual patient and what kind of treatment they require.
Are there alternatives to braces?
The most popular alternative to braces is clear aligners like Invisalign or Spark. We are experts in Invisalign and Spark clear aligner treatment. Dr De Angelis was one of the first providers of Invisalign treatment in Australia and one of only three accredited Spark providers in Australia. Invisalign and Spark are popular as they are almost invisible.
Are braces better than Invisalign?
Braces and Invisalign both move teeth into their desired position but it really comes down to personal preference. Invisalign and Spark clear aligners are very popular as they are almost invisible and they can be taken out for meals, for events and when playing sports. On the other hand though, braces don't need to be taken off at all so they are great for people who don't think they would be able to wear aligners for 22 hours per day.