Braces daily care tips can save you from that frustrating moment: using something every day and only later finding out it was slowing your treatment.
Many people with braces wonder, “Can I use this?” That question matters because small daily choices can lead to loose brackets, sore gums, stains, or extra appointments. So, below you’ll find a simple, practical guide to products and habits I would avoid during orthodontic treatment—plus safer options you can use instead.
Why everyday choices can delay orthodontic results
Braces are not only about the wires and brackets. Your routine also plays a big role.
For example, some items pull on brackets, while others trap plaque around them. As a result, treatment can take longer, and you may deal with more repairs.
A simple “traffic light” guide: OK, be careful, or avoid
Use this as a quick rule:
- Green (OK): low risk when used correctly.
- Yellow (Be careful): fine sometimes, but technique and frequency matter.
- Red (Avoid): high chance of breaking parts, causing irritation, or making hygiene harder.
Red: Products and habits that often cause problems with braces
Below are common “everyday” issues that can interfere with braces.
1) Hard foods (ice, hard candy, nuts, crusty bread)
Why it’s a problem: Hard bites can pop a bracket off or bend a wire.
Do this instead: Cut food into small pieces, chew slowly, and avoid biting with front teeth.
If it happens: If a bracket comes loose, stop chewing on that side and book a check.
2) Sticky sweets (caramel, gummies, chewy candy)
Why it’s a problem: Sticky foods cling to brackets and pull on them. They also feed plaque.
Do this instead: Choose soft desserts and rinse with water after eating.
If it happens: Brush as soon as you can, especially around the brackets.
3) Chewing gum (even sugar-free)
Why it’s a problem: Gum can wrap around brackets and wires, making cleaning harder.
Do this instead: If you want fresh breath, use water, sugar-free mints (not sticky), and good brushing.
4) Nail biting, pen chewing, and chewing on bottle caps
Why it’s a problem: These habits put repeated pressure on braces and can shift wires.
Do this instead: Keep a stress tool (like a fidget) or sugar-free lozenges you can let dissolve.
5) Whitening toothpaste used too often
Why it’s a problem: Some formulas are more abrasive. Over time, this can irritate gums and may make color differences more noticeable when braces come off.
Do this instead: Use a fluoride toothpaste for daily use, and ask your orthodontic team before starting whitening.
6) At-home whitening kits during fixed braces
Why it’s a problem: Whitening may not reach the enamel under brackets, which can leave uneven color later.
Do this instead: Save whitening for after braces, or ask for a plan that fits your case.
7) Skipping floss because it feels “impossible”
Why it’s a problem: Plaque builds up fast around brackets. This raises the risk of swollen gums, bad breath, and white spot marks.
Do this instead: Try floss threaders, orthodontic floss, or small interdental brushes.
Yellow: Things you can use, but only with the right routine
1) Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas
They can stain more easily when plaque is present. However, you don’t need to panic.
- Drink with meals when possible
- Rinse with water after
- Keep brushing consistent
2) Mouthwash
Some mouthwashes can be helpful, especially those with fluoride. Still, not everyone needs daily use.
A good starting point is to follow your dentist’s guidance and avoid using mouthwash as a “replacement” for brushing.
Green: Daily tools that usually help (and why)
If you want braces-friendly basics, these are often a good match:
- Soft toothbrush (manual or electric): gentle, effective, and easier on gums
- Interdental brushes: great for the spaces around brackets
- Fluoride toothpaste: supports enamel and helps prevent white spots
- Water flosser (optional): useful support, although it should not replace floss for everyone
For more orthodontic guidance and patient resources, you can also explore the clinic’s website: Catharina Novaes.
Fixed braces vs aligners: the risks are different
This article focuses on fixed braces, but many people switch or compare options.
With aligners, the biggest problems are often:
- Drinking sugary or colored drinks with aligners in
- Cleaning aligners with hot water (it can warp them)
- Using abrasive toothpaste on trays
If you wear aligners, remove them to eat and drink anything besides water, and clean them gently as instructed.
Warning signs that your routine may be hurting your treatment
Reach out for help if you notice:
- Brackets coming loose often
- Gums that bleed most days
- Bad breath that keeps coming back
- White marks near brackets
- A wire that pokes or cuts your cheek
Early action is easier than fixing a bigger issue later.
Next steps: want to check if your routine is braces-safe?
If you’re unsure about a product you use every day, it’s smart to ask before it causes trouble. Send a message on WhatsApp and tell me what type of appliance you have, what you use, and what you eat most often.
Talk via WhatsApp: https://wa.me/+351926533304
Helpful reference: The American Association of Orthodontists shares patient-friendly guidance on braces care and common do’s and don’ts: AAO – Braces Care.
