5 Must-Know Do’s and Don’ts of Wearing Braces

Getting braces is a big step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. Whether you’ve chosen traditional metal braces or clear braces in Bonney Lake, knowing the right way to take care of them is essential. At Ortho Excellence Puyallup, we always guide our patients with the proper braces do’s and don’ts to ensure a smooth and successful treatment process.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to do and what not to do with braces, along with expert-approved braces maintenance tips that will help protect your smile during your orthodontic journey.

The Do’s of Wearing Braces 

1. Do Maintain Good Oral Hygiene with Braces 

One of the most important things you can do is to brush and floss regularly. Braces create many nooks and crannies where food can get stuck, making it easier for plaque to build up. We recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once daily using tools like floss threaders or a water flosser.

Need help with your routine? Here’s how to clean your teeth when you wear braces.

2. Do Follow Braces Care Instructions 

After your braces are placed, we’ll give you a detailed list of brace care instructions. These include how to clean around your brackets, what tools to use, and how often to visit for adjustments. Following these instructions closely ensures effective treatment and helps avoid unnecessary delays.

3. Do Choose Braces-Friendly Foods 

Eating soft foods is much easier and safer for your braces. Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, soft fruits, and pasta are great options. These won’t damage your wires or brackets and are easier to clean from your teeth.

Want ideas for meals? Check out what foods to eat with braces.

4. Do Wear Your Elastics as Prescribed 

If your orthodontist gives you rubber bands (elastics) to wear, follow the schedule exactly. These tiny tools are critical in aligning your bite. Skipping or forgetting to wear them may prolong your treatment.

5. Do Use Orthodontic Wax 

If your braces are irritating your cheeks or gums, orthodontic wax can be a lifesaver. Place a small amount on the brackets or wires, causing discomfort. It’s a simple way to stay comfortable until your next visit.

The Don’ts of Wearing Braces 

1. Don’t Eat Sticky or Hard Foods 

Foods to avoid with braces include sticky candies (like taffy or caramel), hard nuts, popcorn, ice cubes, and crunchy chips. These can break your wires or loosen your brackets, leading to unexpected visits and longer treatment times.

2. Don’t Skip Orthodontic Appointments 

Life gets busy, but missing your scheduled appointments can disrupt your progress. Each visit is a chance to monitor your movement and make necessary adjustments. Regular check-ins are part of wearing braces the right way.

3. Don’t Chew on Non-Food Items 

Chewing on pens, fingernails, or even your shirt sleeves can damage your braces. These habits can break wires, bend brackets, and cause irritation to your gums and teeth.

4. Don’t Ignore Discomfort or Broken Brackets 

If something feels off or a bracket breaks, don’t wait for your next visit. Call us immediately. Addressing these issues early helps prevent complications and delays. At Ortho Excellence Puyallup, we’re always ready to help with any emergencies or concerns.

5. Don’t Forget to Protect Your Braces During Sports 

If you’re active in sports, wear a mouthguard. It protects your braces (and your lips and teeth) from injury. Custom-fit mouthguards are available and more comfortable than over-the-counter versions.

Tips for Wearing Braces Day-to-Day 

Maintaining braces can be easy when you build the right habits. Here are some practical, everyday tips for wearing braces:

• Carry a travel toothbrush for quick cleanups after meals. 
• Keep a braces kit in your backpack or purse. Include wax, floss picks, and a mirror. 
• Swish water in your mouth after eating if you can’t brush right away. 
• Stay hydrated to avoid dry mouth and help wash away food particles. 

Being proactive with your care is key to getting the results you want.

Clear Braces? Special Care Still Applies 

Many of our patients in Bonney Lake choose clear braces for their discreet appearance. While they may be less visible than traditional metal braces, they still require the same level of care. In fact, clear brackets can stain easily if you’re not careful.

Avoid highly pigmented foods and drinks like curry, coffee, red wine, and tomato sauce. Rinse your mouth and brush after consuming anything that might stain. Remember, clear braces in Bonney Lake are beautiful—let’s keep them that way throughout your treatment.

What to Avoid During Braces Treatment 

There are certain habits and lifestyle choices that can slow down your progress. 

As part of the essential braces do’s and don’ts, here are key things you should avoid during braces treatment:

• Smoking or vaping (these can cause staining and oral health issues) 

• High-sugar diets (increase the risk of decay around brackets.)
• Ignoring pain or loose components 
• Excessive use of whitening products (they can leave uneven color when braces are removed)  

Braces That Bonney Lake Patients Trust

If you’re looking for trusted orthodontic care in the Bonney Lake area, Ortho Excellence Puyallup is here to help. Our expert team provides both metal and clear braces in Bonney Lake, and we tailor each treatment plan to fit your needs. We’re committed to ensuring you get the smile you deserve—with comfort, care, and confidence.

Whether it’s your first time wearing braces or you’re switching from another provider, we’ll walk you through each step and support you with practical braces maintenance and helpful braces do’s and don’ts to make your journey easier.

Curious about affordability? Learn how much braces cost and what to expect.

The Secret to Success with Braces 

Wearing braces is a partnership. We do our part with expert treatment and adjustments, and you do your part by following braces do’s and don’ts, care instructions and making smart daily choices. By knowing the dos and don’ts of wearing braces, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth, stress-free experience and a smile you’ll love for life.

Ready to take the next step toward straighter teeth? Visit Ortho Excellence Puyallup or call us today to schedule your consultation. Whether you’re in Puyallup or searching for braces in Bonney Lake, we’re ready to guide you to your best smile yet.