Braces are a common part of many teenagers’ lives, offering long-term benefits such as improved alignment, bite correction, and a more confident smile. However, wearing braces also comes with a responsibilityproper care. Without it, teens can face issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and delayed orthodontic results.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we help families and teens navigate orthodontic care with clear, practical guidance. In this blog, we break down everything parents and teens need to know about caring for braces to ensure a healthy, smooth treatment journey.
Why Braces Require Extra Attention
Braces include brackets, wires, and other components that make it easier for food and plaque to get trapped in the mouth. Because of this, teens with braces face higher risks of:
Cavities and white spots (decalcification)
Gingivitis or gum inflammation
Bad breath from trapped food particles
Broken brackets or loose wires from hard foods
Delays in treatment progress due to poor hygiene
Consistent care helps avoid these common problems and ensures braces deliver the best results.
Brushing Techniques with Braces
Brushing with braces requires extra time and attention to detail. Teens should brush:
After every meal to remove food and plaque
At a 45-degree angle to clean around brackets and along the gumline
Using a soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush, or an electric toothbrush for added effectiveness
For two full minutes, covering all surfaces: fronts, backs, chewing surfaces, and along the gumline
Adding a fluoride toothpaste helps protect the enamel around brackets and wires.
The Importance of Daily Flossing
Flossing can be tricky with braces, but its one of the most important habits for preventing gum problems and plaque buildup between teeth.
Helpful flossing tools include:
Floss threaders to guide floss around wires
Orthodontic floss designed for braces
Water flossers, which are especially effective and easy to use
Flossing once a day is non-negotiable during orthodontic treatment.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Certain foods can damage braces or make cleaning more difficult. Teens should steer clear of:
Sticky foods like gum, caramel, and taffy
Hard foods such as popcorn, nuts, hard candies, and ice
Crunchy snacks like chips or raw carrots (unless cut into small pieces)
Sugary drinks that promote plaque buildup around brackets
Encouraging healthier snack choices like yogurt, soft fruits, and smoothies can protect both braces and teeth.
How to Handle Common Braces Issues
Even with great care, teens may occasionally encounter minor problems. Heres how to manage them until a dental visit is scheduled:
Loose bracket: Cover with dental wax and call your dentist
Poking wire: Use the eraser end of a pencil to gently push it down, or cover it with wax
Soreness after adjustments: Rinse with warm saltwater or use over-the-counter pain relief
Food stuck in braces: Use an interdental brush or water flosser to gently clean the area
Our team at McLevin Dental Clinic is always available to help teens manage discomfort or unexpected issues quickly.
Regular Dental Cleanings and Checkups
In addition to orthodontic appointments, teens with braces should continue visiting the dentist every six monthsor more often if advised.
These visits help to:
Remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas
Monitor gum health and signs of decay
Reinforce proper brushing and flossing techniques
Catch problems early before they affect treatment
We provide teen-friendly dental care that works alongside orthodontics to maintain both health and progress.
Encouraging Responsibility and Routine
Teens are more likely to stick with a routine when they understand the why behind it. Help your teenager take ownership by:
Letting them select their own toothbrush or mouthwash
Setting reminders or using dental care tracking apps
Celebrating progress with their orthodontic treatment
Showing before-and-after photos to remind them what theyre working toward
A little encouragement goes a long way when building lifelong dental habits.
Final Thoughts: Braces Are a Team Effort
Orthodontic care is an investment in your teens health and confidence, but it only works when paired with consistent, thoughtful oral hygiene. By brushing and flossing daily, avoiding risky foods, and staying on top of appointments, teens can enjoy a smoother treatment and a healthier smile.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we offer specialized dental care for teens with braces. Our team works closely with families to ensure that orthodontic treatment is successful, comfortable, and well-supported from start to finish.
Book your teens dental cleaning or braces check-in today, and keep their smile healthy at every stage of orthodontic care.