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Orthodontic Care Guide

Tips for keeping your smile healthy during treatment

Brushing with Braces

  • Brush after every meal and snack
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle
  • Brush around all sides of brackets and wires
  • Brush your tongue and roof of your mouth
  • Use fluoride toothpaste

Flossing Techniques

  • Floss at least once per day
  • Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss
  • Thread floss under the wire and between teeth
  • Use a gentle sawing motion
  • Consider a water flosser for easier cleaning

Foods to Avoid

  • Hard foods: nuts, hard candy, ice
  • Sticky foods: caramel, gum, taffy
  • Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
  • Crunchy foods: popcorn, chips, hard pretzels
  • Sugary foods and drinks (limit consumption)

Retainer Care

  • Wear as instructed by your orthodontist
  • Clean daily with toothbrush and soap
  • Store in protective case when not wearing
  • Keep away from heat (no dishwasher!)
  • Bring to every appointment

Emergency Care Tips

Quick solutions for common orthodontic issues

Loose Bracket

Use orthodontic wax to cover it temporarily. Call our office to schedule a repair appointment.

Poking Wire

Try using a pencil eraser to gently push the wire flat. Cover with wax if needed. Contact us if it persists.

Lost Elastic Tie

This is usually not urgent. Note which tooth is missing the tie and mention it at your next appointment.

Mouth Sores

Rinse with warm salt water. Use orthodontic wax to prevent irritation. Soreness typically resolves in a few days.

True Orthodontic Emergency?

If you’re experiencing severe pain, significant trauma, or a true emergency, please call our office immediately.

Visit Our Office

Office Hours

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Wednesday & Sunday

Closed

Contact Information

Phone

(631) 665-5580

Email

info@oceanblueortho.com

Address

387 E Main St, Suite 103
Bay Shore, NY 11706