Durham Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

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Caring For Your Braces

Serving Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Apex, and the surrounding areas

Taking proper care of your braces is a big responsibility.  Keeping your braces clean is necessary to maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout treatment. Following the food guidelines will prevent loose brackets & broken wires which slow down orthodontic progress. If you follow these guidelines, we are sure you will end up with a BEAUTIFUL smile!! Please contact our office if you ever have any questions or concerns.

Orthodontic Emergencies

Loose Brackets and Broken Wires

Occasionally, orthodontic appliances can break.  This is not an emergency but we want you to call us at (919) 489-1543 and alert us as soon as possible. We can help you with the problem and schedule an appointment to have the appliance repaired.

In general, if you can easily remove the broken appliance, do so (please remember to bring it to your appointment).  If you cannot remove the broken piece, cover the protruding portion with your orthodontic wax. (Chewing gum works, too, if you can’t find your wax.) If the wire is lodged in the gums, cheek, or tongue, call us immediately and we will help you remove it.

Please review the videos below for additional help and information.

We have found these videos to be helpful in understanding how to properly care for your braces. You must enter a password to view the videos.
parts of braces diagram

Parts of braces

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brushing metal braces

Brushing techniques

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metal braces flossing

 Flossing (with Superfloss)

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cleaning braces image

Brushing with a Proxabrush

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colored braces

The problem with loose brackets

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candys

Foods to avoid

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