What to Do After Getting Braces
A first-week care guide covering discomfort, diet, oral hygiene, and what to do if something breaks — written for patients starting orthodontic treatment.
Is it normal for braces to hurt after they're placed?
Yes. Mild discomfort, tenderness, or pressure on the teeth is normal for the first three to seven days after braces are placed. This happens as the teeth begin responding to gentle, continuous pressure from the brackets and wires — it is a sign the appliance is working, not a sign of a problem.
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also take a few days to get used to the feel of the braces in your mouth. This adjustment period is temporary and resolves on its own as the soft tissue adapts.
How do I manage braces discomfort at home?
A few simple steps can make the first week noticeably more comfortable:
- Eat a soft diet for the first few days after placement.
- Rinse with warm salt water — half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water — if your mouth feels sore.
- Apply orthodontic wax over any bracket or wire that's rubbing or causing irritation.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed, as directed by your orthodontist or physician.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Certain foods put brackets and wires at risk of breaking or coming loose, which can slow down treatment. In the first few days especially, favor soft, easy-to-chew foods.
Avoid
- Hard foods — nuts, ice, popcorn, hard candies
- Sticky foods — chewing gum, caramel, toffee
- Crunchy foods — nachos, hard chips
- Whole fruits and vegetables eaten directly — cut apples, carrots, or corn on the cob into small pieces instead of biting into them directly
How do I keep my teeth clean with braces?
Braces create more surfaces where food and plaque can collect, so oral hygiene matters more during treatment, not less.
- Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth daily using interdental brushes designed to fit around brackets and wires.
Excellent oral hygiene throughout treatment is essential to prevent tooth decay and gum problems while wearing braces.
What should I do if a bracket or wire comes loose?
Do not attempt to repair a loose bracket or wire yourself. Cover any sharp or poking area with orthodontic wax for comfort, and contact your orthodontist's office promptly to arrange a repair appointment.
Attending all scheduled appointments matters for the same reason — missed visits or a broken appliance left unrepaired can prolong overall treatment time.
When should I contact my orthodontist?
Reach out to the office promptly if you experience any of the following:
- A loose or broken bracket or wire
- Persistent pain or discomfort
- Swelling or signs of infection
- Trauma to the braces or teeth
Braces are delicate appliances. Avoiding hard and sticky foods, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and following your orthodontist's instructions closely all support efficient treatment and a healthy result.