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Life With Braces

Getting braces is an exciting step toward a confident, healthy smile, but it also requires adjustment. At Paramus Orthodontics, our goal is to make your treatment experience as comfortable and smooth as possible. With over 20 years of experience and a dedication to patient-centric care, we’re here every step of the way.

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Getting Comfortable with Your Braces

During the first few days or weeks, you may notice some minor soreness, changes in how you speak, or sensitivity when eating. That’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. Because we use advanced digital scanning and treatment planning, your braces are custom-planned for efficiency and comfort.

Helpful tips to ease into it:

  • Rinse with warm saltwater a couple of times a day to relieve soreness.

  • Use orthodontic wax on any bracket or wire that rubs your lips or cheeks.

  • During this phase, stick to softer foods (yogurt, smoothies, pasta) to give your mouth time to adapt.

Eating With Braces

Eating well with braces means adjusting your food choices, not giving them up. At Paramus Orthodontics, we help you maintain a healthy diet while protecting your orthodontic appliances.

Foods to Avoid:

Sticky candies, hard nuts, popcorn, ice, and chewy gummies can damage wires or brackets.

Braces-Friendly Foods:

Soft fruits, steamed vegetables, dairy products, and lean proteins are all great choices. Eating healthy helps keep your teeth and gums strong, which supports your treatment progress and overall oral health.

How to Brush and Floss With Braces

Keeping your teeth clean is one of the most important parts of orthodontic care. Braces create small spaces where food can get trapped, so extra attention to brushing and flossing is key.

Here’s how:

  • Brush at least two minutes twice a day, making sure to angle your brush under wires and around each bracket.

  • Use an interdental brush or water flosser to clean between the braces and between teeth.

  • Attend your regular check-ups and cleaning visits at Paramus Orthodontics to ensure your mouth stays healthy and on track.

Our orthodontic team will show you exactly how to brush and floss with braces during your visit, so you’ll feel confident caring for your smile at home.

Handling Braces Discomfort or Emergencies

A little discomfort is normal after adjustments. Think of it as a sign your braces are working. You can relieve soreness with soft foods, saltwater rinses, or over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

If a bracket or wire comes loose, call our Paramus orthodontic office at (551)-400-8959. We offer emergency orthodontic care to get you comfortable again. Keeping orthodontic wax handy can also help protect your cheeks or lips from irritation.

Sports, Music & Daily Activities With Braces

Braces shouldn’t slow down your lifestyle. You can still play sports, instruments, and enjoy your favorite activities.

  • For sports: Always wear a custom mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth.

  • For musicians: It may take a few days to adjust, but most players quickly adapt.

  • Traveling: Pack a small braces care kit with wax, toothbrush, and floss for on-the-go maintenance.

Our Paramus Orthodontics team will provide all the tips and tools you need to stay confident and comfortable on and off the field.

Regular Adjustments & Checkups

Your braces journey includes regular adjustment visits, usually every 4–8 weeks. During each appointment, our orthodontist will check your progress, tighten wires if needed, and answer any questions you have.

These visits are key to keeping your treatment on track and ensuring your teeth move safely and effectively. Plus, they give you a chance to celebrate the small improvements that lead to your dream smile!

Life After Braces – Keeping Your New Smile Straight

When your braces finally come off, your smile will be stronger, straighter, and healthier than ever. But maintaining those results means following a good retention plan.

You’ll receive a custom retainer and simple instructions for wearing and cleaning it. Regular follow-up visits with Paramus Orthodontics will make sure your teeth stay beautifully aligned for years to come.

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Start Your Braces Journey With Confidence in NJ

At Paramus Orthodontics, we’re passionate about helping patients feel confident at every stage of treatment, from their first day with braces to their final reveal.

If you’re ready to learn more about life with braces or need expert guidance for your orthodontic care, we’re here for you.

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FAQs About Living With Braces

  • Most patients adjust within one to two weeks. Mild soreness is normal and temporary.

  • Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soups until your mouth feels comfortable.

  • Absolutely. You can play sports with braces, just wear a protective mouthguard during games or practices.

  • Use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp area. You can contact our office for a quick fix.

  • To keep your teeth white with braces, brush thoroughly, rinse with fluoride, and avoid sugary foods and drinks.