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New Braces Care2021-05-13T22:05:10+00:00

Taking care of your new braces.

As with anything new, your braces will take some time to get used to. One of the first things you’ll notice is that brushing your teeth isn’t quite as simple as it used to be! Taking proper care of your braces and teeth is important to both your overall health and the outcome of your treatment. Here are a few tips to help you take care of your braces.

braces toothbrush

Take your time brushing and flossing.

Food can easily get stuck in the brackets of your braces or in between your teeth where it’s harder to reach so it’s important to thoroughly brush and floss after every meal to minimize plaque and avoid permanent white marks on the surface of your teeth. Many patients find a Waterpik or similar device helpful in removing hard-to-reach food particles.

Don't skip the Dentist!

Your orthodontic appointments are important but they aren’t a substitute for your regular dental exams. Please continue to see your Dentist for cleanings every 3 to 6 months during treatment to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

Not all foods are “braces-friendly”.

There are a few foods that you should stay away from because they can damage your braces, costing you more money or prolonging your treatment. These are the worst offenders:

  1. Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
  2. Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, certain chips
  3. Sticky foods: caramels, gum, sticky candy
  4. Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apple on the core, whole carrots
  5. Chewing on hard, non-food objects: pens, pencils, fingernails

Wear your elastics.

Your commitment to the process is essential to its success! Please wear your elastics between your appointments as instructed and remove them only when brushing your teeth and eating. Always carry a few extras with you so if one breaks, you have a spare. Even if they aren’t broken, change them as directed to make sure they are providing the right amount of pressure. And if you run out of elastics before your appointment, just swing by our office. We’ll happily give you some more!

Emergency care.

If you are experiencing severe pain, have a loose band, a broken wire or something else you can’t temporarily take care of, please call us to schedule an emergency appointment. Our Orthodontic First Aid section has some useful tips on how to address some common problems at home until you can get in to see us.

Retainer rules.

  1. Wear them!
  2. Take them out when eating and store them in their case until after your meal.
  3. Clean thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush, toothpaste and warm (not hot) water.
  4. Always store retainers in their case.
  5. Practice speaking, reading or singing with your retainers in to get used to them faster.
  6. Treat them with care. If you break or lose one, call us immediately to get a replacement.
  7. If your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try and adjust them yourself.
  8. Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
  9. Keep away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, napkins and curious pets.

Patient Testimonials

Don’t Take Our Word For It – See Why Our Patients Say we’re “The Baum” at Baum Orthodontics:

I will be bringing all of my kids here. What an amazing place. Super awesome staff that is always smiling and always friendly. Dr. Baum really cares about everyone that walks through his door.

Kyle Bagley, Google Review

“I love love love this place!  Dr Baum is amazing… He is always in a good mood and ready to help. From the initial consultation… to ensuring patient satisfaction, they are truly the best! Thank you Dr Baum and team!!!”

Jane H., Yelp Review

“Dr. Baum’s office is the bomb…literally. The office is very fun and engaging for kids and teens like me! Dr.Baum never ceases to amaze me, so keep doing what you guys are doing.”

Logan Blachowski, Patient Hub

“Wow. What an experience! Love everything about Dr. Baum and his amazing staff! It actually makes the process of getting braces super fun and something to look forward to!  And the point system is super cool (second to the candy jars of course). ”

Emily Thornton, Patient Hub

“I have only came here for 2 appointments, but I LOVE it here. Everyone is soooo nice and kind here.”

Makenna Clawson, Patient Hub
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