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Looking after your braces

Having braces fitted is a momentous occasion in a patient's orthodontic journey, but it's also just the start. With your braces or aligners in place, your teeth will gradually start to move into a straighter position. During this time it's important you take care of both your appliance and your teeth.

Five top tips

At the Bachmayer Orthodontic Clinic, we'll make sure you are given all the necessary instructions and equipment you need to look after your braces. We'll also be on hand to answer any questions you may have when it comes to brace care.

Here are five top tips on caring for your braces:

Clean them after every meal.
We outline some key brushing techniques on our looking after your teeth page. It's important you maintain a regular oral hygiene routine because if food gets caught in your braces this can directly impact your treatment.
Be careful what you eat.
Wearing braces or aligners won't really impact your lifestyle, or your diet, but there are some foods it's important to avoid, or to eat with care, so they don't damage your braces. Find out more about these foods on our eating with braces page.

Use dental wax.
Sometimes an archwire or a bracket can start rubbing on the inside of your cheek. We will provide you with some dental wax you can place over the piece of your appliance that is causing discomfort. In some instances, you may be able to clip any protruding wire with small nail clippers, but it is best to call us at the clinic and book an emergency appointment so we can take a look.
Protect your braces.
The great thing about many braces these days is you can still play musical instruments and sports with them, which is particularly convenient for teenage patients. However, it's important to protect your braces, so if you are playing sports, be sure to wear a mouthguard.
Book an appointment.
If your braces or aligners break or are damaged, it's very important that you don't try and fix the appliance yourself. Ring us immediately and explain to our friendly reception team what has happened. They'll book you an emergency appointment so you can come in and have your appliance fixed.