CURRENT PATIENTS
in Oakville
For our amazing patients
We’re thrilled to have you as part of our valued patient community! Your comfort and satisfaction are paramount to us, and we’re always here to address any questions or concerns you may have. If you’re short on time, feel free to explore the resources listed below to get started.
General Braces Care
Now that you’ve embarked on your orthodontic journey with braces, it’s essential to understand how to care for them properly throughout your treatment. Maintaining optimal oral hygiene is crucial with braces. Brush and floss after every meal to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Regular dental cleanings every 3-4 months are also recommended.
Brushing
- Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, ensure you brush for two minutes after every meal with fluoride toothpaste.
- Utilize gentle circular motions, angling the brush at 45 degrees to the gum line. Pay special attention to areas around your brackets and the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
- Be sure to review the instructional videos and information provided to you at the appointment you first had your braces, appliance, or aligners placed. If you cannot find it, call us and we would be happy to send you your info package again.
Flossing
- Flossing with braces requires the use of floss or orthodontic floss picks. Slide the floss between each tooth, ensuring to clean beneath the gum line.
- We also highly recommend incorporating a water flosser into your routine for thorough cleaning.
Playing Sports
Great news for athletes – you can continue playing sports during orthodontic treatment! Just remember to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces. Let us know if you need a mouthguard – orthodontic mouth guards are available for purchase in the office.
Eating with braces
During the initial days with braces, opt for softer foods to ease discomfort. Throughout treatment, avoid hard or sticky foods to prevent damage to your braces.
Foods to Avoid:
- Chewy foods: bagels, licorice
- Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice
- Sticky foods: caramel candies, chewing gum
- Hard foods: nuts, hard candies
- Foods requiring biting into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots
Foods to Enjoy:
- Dairy: soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks
- Breads: soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins without nuts
- Grains: pasta, soft cooked rice
- Meats/poultry: soft cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats, meat cut into small pieces
- Seafood: tuna, salmon, crab cakes
- Vegetables: mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans
- Fruits: applesauce, bananas, fruit juice
- Treats: ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, cake