Life with braces

Name: Impression Orthodontics
Telephone: (08) 6293 1337

At Impression Orthodontics, we want your treatment to go as swiftly and smoothly as possible. We’ve responded to commonly asked questions from patients at our practice with our top tips for brace care - so you can get the most out of your treatment.

What foods can I eat with braces?

You can still enjoy most of your favourite foods during treatment with braces, but a few adjustments might need to be made to protect your appliance. Very hard and sticky foods can dislodge your brackets and lengthen your treatment time, and sugary foods can cause cavities.

Some food to avoid include:

Chewy foods (bagels, licorice)
Crunchy foods (popcorn, nuts, chips, ice)
Sticky foods (caramels, chewing gum)

Some hard and chewy foods can be cut into bite-size pieces before eating. These include hard fruits like apples, crusty sandwiches, and chewy meats like steak. We recommend sticking to softer foods when possible. Some safe foods to eat during treatment with braces include:

Soft fruits (applesauce, bananas)
Soft grains (pasta, cooked rice)
Soft vegetables (mashed potatoes, steamed greens, soft beans, corn-off-the-cob)
Seafood (tuna, salmon, crab cakes, fish)
Breads (tortillas, pancakes, nutless muffins)
Dairy products (soft cheese, yoghurt, milk-based drinks)

These lists are not exhaustive, so if you aren’t sure what you should or shouldn’t eat, please ask our friendly staff.

How should I clean my braces?

Oral hygiene is especially important during treatment. We recommend brushing your teeth, gums, and braces after every meal (at least three times a day) and flossing at least once a day. Using fluoride toothpaste is best, and Dr Sanj may recommend a fluoride rinse as well.

Take your toothbrush and dental floss with you when you go to school or work so you can brush during lunch time. An Interdental toothbrush is also great for getting to hard-to-reach places between your brackets.

To brush your teeth with braces, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and brush in small circular motions. Make sure to clean each bracket for 10 seconds before moving on to the next tooth.

We can show you the proper way to brush and floss with braces when you visit our practice so you feel confident in your technique.

Can I still play sport with braces?

Yes, you can absolutely play sport during treatment with braces. If you do, however, we recommend you wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and appliance. Our team is happy to help you find a mouthguard that fits you best.

What should I do if my braces are damaged?

Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment, so it’s important to look after your braces carefully. If any damage occurs to your appliance, please consult our orthodontic emergencies page, and contact us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.