Orthodontic Tips & Tricks
Expert advice to make your orthodontic journey smooth and successful
Success Starts with Smart Habits
Top 6 Tips for Treatment Success
These are the most important things you can do
Never Miss an Appointment
Regular adjustment appointments are crucial for keeping your treatment on track. Missed appointments can extend your treatment time.
Brush After Every Meal
Food gets trapped easily in braces. Brush for 2 minutes after eating to prevent cavities and keep your braces clean.
Use Your Elastics as Directed
If prescribed rubber bands, wear them exactly as instructed. Elastics do important work moving your teeth and jaw!
Carry an Orthodontic Care Kit
Keep a travel kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and wax for on-the-go care, especially at school or work.
Protect Your Investment
Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods. One piece of hard candy can undo weeks of progress by breaking a bracket.
Communicate with Your Orthodontist
If something doesn't feel right, hurts, or breaks, call us! Don't wait until your next appointment.
Quick Tips by Category
Comfort Tips
Cleaning Hacks
Time-Saving Tips
Treatment Success
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Learn from others and keep your treatment on track
❌ Skipping Elastics
Why it’s a problem: Elastics are crucial for correcting your bite. Not wearing them can significantly extend treatment time.
✓ Solution: Set hourly reminders on your phone until wearing elastics becomes automatic.
❌ Eating Prohibited Foods
Why it’s a problem: Hard or sticky foods can break brackets, requiring repair appointments and delaying progress.
✓ Solution: Keep a list of foods to avoid on your phone or fridge as a reminder.
❌ Poor Oral Hygiene
Why it’s a problem: Inadequate cleaning can lead to permanent white spots, cavities, and gum disease.
✓ Solution: Set a timer for 2 minutes when brushing. Make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
❌ Missing Appointments
Why it’s a problem: Your teeth need regular adjustments to move properly. Missed appointments delay results.
✓ Solution: Schedule your next appointment before leaving the office. Add it to your calendar immediately.
❌ Not Reporting Problems
Why it’s a problem: Small issues can become big problems. A broken bracket left unfixed can halt tooth movement.
✓ Solution: Call the office immediately if anything feels loose, broken, or painful.
Pro Hacks from Experienced Patients
Insider tips that make life easier
Keep a small mirror at your desk or locker for quick smile checks after eating
You're Investing in Your Future!
Every day you follow these tips, you're one step closer to the confident, beautiful smile you deserve. Your commitment to your orthodontic care will pay off with results that last a lifetime.
Remember: We're your partners in this journey. Never hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns!