The Do’s & Don’ts for Patients Undergoing Orthodontic (Dental Braces) Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is a transformative journey towards a perfect smile, but it requires proper care and adherence to guidelines for the best results. Whether you’re an adult or a child undergoing orthodontic treatment, knowing the right habits to follow and mistakes to avoid can make a significant difference. Here’s a comprehensive list of do’s and don’ts, with special considerations for kids and adults, along with India-specific concerns based on our dietary habits.

The Do’s

For Everyone:

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene – Brush after every meal and floss daily to keep your teeth and braces clean.
2. Use an Orthodontic Toothbrush – A soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush helps clean around brackets and wires effectively.
3. Rinse with Mouthwash – An antimicrobial mouthwash can help prevent infections and maintain fresh breath.
4. Follow Dietary Restrictions – Eat soft foods and avoid anything too hard or sticky that could damage your braces.
5. Visit Your Orthodontist Regularly – Attend all scheduled appointments for adjustments and progress checks.
6. Use Orthodontic Wax if Needed – If your braces cause irritation, orthodontic wax can prevent discomfort.
7. Wear Your Retainers as Prescribed – If your treatment involves retainers, follow your orthodontist’s instructions for wearing them diligently.

For Kids:

1. Make Brushing Fun – Use colorful toothbrushes, flavored toothpaste, or brushing apps to encourage good habits.
2. Eat Calcium-Rich Foods – Milk, Paneer, and Curd help strengthen teeth and promote oral health.
3. Wear a Mouth guard During Sports – If your child plays sports, a mouth guard can prevent damage to braces.
4. Avoid Chewing on Pens or Toys – Kids often develop this habit, which can damage braces.

For Adults:

1. Carry a Travel Dental Kit – A portable kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss can help maintain hygiene while at work or traveling.
2. Limit Staining Beverages – Tea, coffee, and turmeric-rich foods can stain brackets or clear aligners; rinse your mouth after consuming them.
3. Be Mindful of Public Speaking & Meetings – If you use clear aligners, practice speaking with them to avoid speech issues.
4. Quit Smoking – Smoking can cause discoloration and slow down the healing process.

The Don’ts

For Everyone:

1. Avoid Hard & Sticky Foods – Foods like chikki, popcorn, chewing gum, and caramel can break brackets or get stuck.
2. Do Not Bite Directly into Hard Foods – Cut apples, guavas, and other hard fruits into small pieces before eating.
3. Don’t Skip Your Appointments – Regular adjustments are crucial for treatment progress.
4. Do Not Use Your Teeth as Tools – Avoid opening packets, bottle caps, or biting nails, as this can damage your braces.
5. Don’t Ignore Discomfort – If your braces feel too tight or cause excessive pain, consult your orthodontist promptly.

For Kids:

1. Limit Sugary Candies & Chocolates – Excess sugar can cause cavities, making orthodontic treatment less effective.
2. Avoid Biting into Ice Cream Cones – Cold and hard foods can lead to sensitivity and brace damage.
3. Do Not Skip Wearing Aligners or Rubber Bands – If prescribed, wearing them as directed ensures quicker and better results.
4. Stop Thumb Sucking or Lip Biting – These habits can interfere with the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment.

For Adults:

1. Avoid Excess Alcohol & Tobacco Use – These habits can cause gum disease and slow down orthodontic progress.
2. Don’t Delay Repairing Broken Brackets – If something feels loose or broken, schedule a visit to your orthodontist immediately.
3. Do Not Eat Excessively Spicy or Acidic Foods – Foods like pickles, tamarind-based dishes, and excessive masala can cause mouth irritation.
4. Don’t Ignore Jaw Pain or Headaches – If you experience persistent discomfort, inform your orthodontist.

India-Specific Concerns

1. Limit Sticky Indian Sweets – Rasgulla, gulab jamun, and jalebi can stick to braces and increase cavity risks.
2. Be Careful with Hard Snacks – Khakra, papad, and dry roasted nuts can damage brackets.
3. Watch Out for Spices – Excess haldi (turmeric) and masala in foods can stain clear aligners or elastic bands.
4. Hydration is Key – Drink plenty of water, especially after consuming tea, coffee, or spicy foods, to maintain oral health.

Final Thoughts
Undergoing orthodontic treatment is a commitment that requires patience and care. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure a smooth and effective treatment journey. If you have any concerns or need expert orthodontic care, visit Smiley Dental Treatment Centre Pvt Ltd, located at GE-78, Rajdanga Main Road, Sector G, East Kolkata Township, Kolkata 700107, near Kasba Ruby Hospital Area, near Taj Vivanta Hotel, near GST Bhavan.

For expert consultations, book an appointment at www.thesmileydental.com today!

Edited by Dr Sourav Ghosh, Chief Consultant at Smiley Dental Treatment Centre Pvt Ltd