NEW ORTHODONTIC PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS

Congratulations on starting your journey to a beautiful and straighter smile!

Expect to experience the following events during your treatment.

1. Expect mild discomfort

• Teeth may feel sore or tender for 2–3 days.

• Soft diet (soups, pasta, eggs, bananas, mashed food) helps.

• Over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken if needed.
  
  

2. Eating precautions

• Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods (nuts, candies, gum, ice, corn chips).

• Cut fruits and vegetables into small pieces.

• Do not bite directly into hard foods (e.g., apples, corn on the cob).
  
  

3. Oral hygiene

• Brush after every meal using a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste.

• Angle the brush at 45° above and below the brackets.

• Use interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean between teeth and around braces.

• Rinse with mouthwash daily.
  
  

4. Braces care

• Do not pick at brackets or wires with fingers or objects.

• If a bracket or wire loosens, place orthodontic wax on it and call the clinic.
  
  

5. Irritation management

• Mild cheek or lip irritation is normal.

• Apply orthodontic wax on sharp edges for comfort.
  
  

6. Follow-up

• Keep regular adjustment appointments.

• Bring any concerns (pain, loose brackets, poking wires) to your orthodontist promptly.