Tips for Keeping Your Braces Journey on Track
Starting orthodontic treatment is a big step toward achieving a healthier, straighter smile. Whether you’re wearing metal braces, Fastbraces®, or Invisalign®, it’s important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions to get the best possible results in the shortest amount of time. Braces require more than just regular adjustments; they also demand consistent at-home care, smart dietary choices, and a little patience. If you’ve recently started treatment and are searching for a dentist near Vadnais Heights to support your orthodontic journey, Advance Family Dental is here to help every step of the way.
Stick to Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Wearing braces makes it easier for food particles and plaque to collect around brackets and wires, increasing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation. That’s why maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget to angle your brush to clean above and below the brackets thoroughly. Flossing can be more difficult with braces, but it’s still essential. Consider using a floss threader, orthodontic flosser, or a water flosser to make the process easier.
If you’re wearing Invisalign® clear aligners, you still need to brush and floss regularly. In fact, because aligners trap everything against your teeth, it’s even more important to brush after meals and snacks before putting them back in.
Follow Dietary Guidelines from Your Orthodontist
One of the most common reasons braces treatment gets off track is damage to wires or brackets from eating the wrong foods. Hard, crunchy, and sticky foods can break braces, bend wires, or pull off brackets, which delays your progress and can cause discomfort. Avoid popcorn, chewing gum, hard candy, ice, and sticky snacks like caramel or taffy. Instead, opt for soft foods that are gentle on your braces, especially during the first few days after adjustments when your mouth may feel sore.
If you’re wearing clear aligners, remove them before eating or drinking anything besides water. Eating with aligners in place can stain or warp them, and sugary drinks can lead to decay under the trays. Be sure to clean your aligners regularly as well.
Keep Up with All Appointments
Your orthodontist carefully plans your treatment to move your teeth in a controlled, gradual way. Missing scheduled appointments can throw off your progress, lead to longer treatment times, or even reverse some of the improvements already made. Always do your best to attend appointments on time, and if you ever have to reschedule, try to do so as soon as possible.
If you experience an issue between visits, such as a loose bracket, broken wire, or lost aligner, contact your orthodontist right away. Waiting too long to address these problems can disrupt your progress and may lead to additional complications.
Wear Your Orthodontic Appliances as Directed
Whether you’re asked to wear rubber bands, retainers, or Invisalign aligners, following your orthodontist’s instructions is key to keeping your treatment on track. For example, if you’re using Invisalign, wearing your aligners for fewer than 20–22 hours per day can extend your treatment time. Similarly, not wearing rubber bands consistently can prevent your bite from aligning properly.
At Advance Family Dental, we make it a priority to guide you through every phase of treatment. Our orthodontic patients receive clear instructions and ongoing support so they know exactly how to stay on course.
Be Patient and Stay Positive
Orthodontic treatment takes time, and every smile is different. You may not notice dramatic changes overnight, but rest assured that progress is happening even if it’s gradual. Taking photos of your smile every few weeks can help you see how far you’ve come. Staying positive and trusting the process is one of the best ways to stay motivated.
Keep in mind that everyone’s orthodontic journey is different. Comparing your progress to someone else’s may cause unnecessary stress. Focus on your unique goals and celebrate small wins, such as fewer gaps, straighter teeth, or a more comfortable bite.
Continue Regular Dental Checkups
It’s easy to focus solely on orthodontic visits, but don’t forget to schedule regular cleanings and exams with your general dentist. These visits are critical to maintaining healthy teeth and gums during treatment. If you’re searching for a trusted dentist near Vadnais Heights who can provide both general and orthodontic care, Advance Family Dental is proud to offer both in one convenient location.
Our team understands how braces and aligners affect your oral health and will work with you to prevent problems like cavities and gum disease during treatment. Keeping your teeth healthy while they’re being aligned ensures that your final smile is not only straighter but also stronger.
Stay on Track with Support from Advance Family Dental
At Advance Family Dental, we’re more than just your dental care provider — we’re your orthodontic partner. Whether you’re in braces or using clear aligners, we’ll help you navigate every step of your treatment with confidence and clarity. Our experienced team is here to answer questions, address concerns, and make sure your journey to a better smile stays on track.
Looking for a dentist near Vadnais Heights who can handle both your routine dental needs and orthodontic care? Contact Advance Family Dental today to schedule your next visit, check in on your progress, or learn more about how we can help you reach your smile goals.