How to Take Care of Your Braces or Aligners: The Ultimate Guide

Starting orthodontic treatment is exciting — you’re on your way to a healthier, straighter smile! But whether you’re wearing traditional braces or Invisalign® aligners, proper care is essential to keep your teeth healthy and ensure the best results.

Here’s your go-to guide on how to take care of braces or aligners during treatment.

Daily Cleaning Routine

With Braces:

• Brush after every meal: Food can easily get stuck between brackets and wires. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss once a day: Thread floss carefully under the wires, or use orthodontic flossers or a water flosser to make things easier.

• Rinse with mouthwash: Helps reduce bacteria and freshens your breath.

With Aligners:

• Rinse aligners every time you remove them: Use lukewarm water (never hot, which can warp plastic).

• Clean aligners daily: Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and clear soap — avoid toothpaste, as it can scratch.

• Brush and floss before putting aligners back in: This keeps bacteria from being trapped against your teeth.

  
  

Foods to Avoid

With Braces:

Skip foods that can damage brackets or wires, such as:

• Sticky candy (caramel, gum, taffy)

• Hard foods (nuts, popcorn, ice)

• Crunchy snacks (chips, pretzels)

• Biting directly into apples or corn on the cob (cut them instead!)

With Aligners:

The good news: you can eat almost anything! Just remember to remove aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.

Handling Discomfort

• Braces: Use orthodontic wax to cover brackets or wires causing irritation. Over-the-counter pain relief can also help after adjustments.

• Aligners: You may feel tightness for a few days with each new tray — this is normal. Switching aligners before bed can make the adjustment period easier.

What to Do if Something Breaks

• Braces: If a bracket loosens or a wire pokes out, call us right away. Don’t try to fix it yourself.

• Aligners: If you lose or crack an aligner, contact us promptly to avoid delays in treatment.

The Bottom Line

Taking care of braces or aligners may feel like a big change at first, but with good habits, it quickly becomes routine. Consistency is key to finishing your treatment on time — and revealing a smile you’ll love for life.

👉 Need extra tips for your specific treatment plan? Schedule an appointment with Family Tree Orthodontics, and let us guide you every step of the way.