6 things to consider before getting teeth braces

4 Things to Consider Before Getting Teeth Braces

Braces can transform your smile—but before you start treatment, it’s important to know what to expect. These four key points will help you make an informed decision.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day

Braces make it easier for food and plaque to build up. Maintaining a strong oral hygiene routine is essential during treatment. Brushing twice a day—and ideally after every meal—helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and stains around your brackets.

Neglecting your hygiene while wearing braces can lead to white spots, bad breath, or even delayed progress in your treatment.

• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Brush for at least two minutes every time.
• Consider an interdental brush for cleaning around brackets.
• Don’t forget to floss daily with special floss threaders.

Limit sugary foods and drinks

Sugary foods feed harmful bacteria that cause plaque and tooth decay. With braces, it’s even easier for sugar to get trapped around wires and brackets, leading to damage that’s hard to reverse once treatment is done.

Try to avoid:

• Sticky candies and chewing gum
• Sodas and flavored waters
• Sweetened teas or coffee drinks

Replacing these with water, fruits, or unsweetened snacks will keep your smile healthier throughout your orthodontic journey.

Avoid using tobacco products

Tobacco stains teeth, irritates gums, and significantly increases the risk of oral disease. If you’re investing in a straighter, healthier smile, tobacco can undo much of that progress.

Smoking while wearing braces can also:

• Slow down healing and tooth movement
• Increase risk of gum recession
• Leave long-term discoloration after brackets are removed

Quitting before starting your treatment is one of the best things you can do for your smile—and your overall health.

Limit acidic drinks and foods

Acid weakens enamel, which is especially risky when wearing braces. Weak enamel can lead to sensitivity, erosion, and uneven coloration once your brackets come off.

Foods and drinks high in acid include:

• Citrus fruits and juices
• Sports drinks and carbonated water
• Vinegar-based sauces and pickled foods

To protect your teeth:

• Rinse with water after consuming acidic items
• Avoid brushing immediately after eating acidic foods
• Limit intake and choose less erosive alternatives

“Taking care of your teeth during braces is just as important as getting them straight. Prevention today means a better smile tomorrow.”

Visit your dentist regularly

Even while under orthodontic care, it’s crucial to continue regular dental check-ups. Cleanings, x-rays, and early detection of any issues keep your treatment on track and help avoid complications.

At Dr. Andrés G. Peñalva García’s clinic, we coordinate your orthodontic and general care in one place—making it easy to protect your smile every step of the way.

• Cleanings every 3 to 6 months
• Monitoring for cavities and gum health
• Adjustments to home care routines as needed