Life with Braces in Pensacola and Pace, FL
Did you know that the most important factor in the success of your orthodontic treatment is YOU? Keeping your regularly scheduled appointments at our Pensacola or Pace orthodontic office, complying with Dr. Brooks’ instructions, not breaking brackets and appliances, keeping your teeth and gums clean, and avoiding foods that may damage your braces will ensure your treatment will be fast, easy, and create great results.
Eating with Braces
Hard foods such as candy, apples, bacon, ice, etc. can damage or bend wires, loosen the cement under the bands, and break the little brackets and tubes that are attached to the teeth. Sticky foods can damage appliances by bending wires and pulling cement loose. Avoid acidic foods whenever possible. If you do eat them, brush your teeth immediately. If you are not able to brush, then always rinse with water after eating.
While in orthodontic treatment, you should avoid:
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Ice
- Lemons
- Corn on the cob
- Chips
- Hard taco shells
- Taffy
- Caramels
- Hard pizza crust
- NO GUM ALLOWED!
Tips for Home Care
- Be sure to visit your general dentist every six months for dental needs and cleanings.
- Brush, floss, or use a water flosser after every meal (when possible) and no less than three times a day.
- Topical fluoride can protect the tooth enamel while wearing braces. We are happy to provide a prescription for topical fluoride—just ask!
