Braces 101 · Life with Braces
Life with Braces.
What to eat, what to avoid, and what to do if something feels off.
5.0★ on Google · 67 reviews · LA Top Orthodontist 2025
Getting used to your braces.
Your braces will be attached quickly and easily to your teeth, but a full day is necessary for the bands to affix completely. It is a good idea to wait several hours after getting braces before eating solid food. You may find it easier to eat soft foods for the first couple of days while you become accustomed to eating with your new braces.
Comfort concerns
The braces may initially feel awkward, and the teeth may be tender or sensitive to pressure. This is completely normal and will go away soon. It may feel like the braces are "sticking out," but this sensation will soon pass. Small pieces of orthodontic wax may be used if the brackets irritate cheek tissues. The orthodontic office always has extra wax in case you run out, so call us if you need more.
Many patients will initially experience some discomfort, but the soreness will go away within the first few days or even hours of getting braces. It is impossible to predict exactly when the tenderness will end. Some patients take over-the-counter pain relievers on the first day of treatment to lessen the discomfort. To ensure the best result, take the medications before your appointment.
Eating right
Braces are attached to your teeth with a strong adhesive but may become loose due to eating certain foods. Wires could also become bent or broken without proper care. Since it is best to achieve orthodontic treatment goals with as few disruptions as possible, a well-balanced diet is important to ensure a healthy environment for your teeth.
Patients should avoid foods that are sticky, hard, or chewy. They should also avoid any food and drinks known to cause cavities. Patients should brush, floss, and rinse their mouth regularly between meals.
Foods to avoid
- Hard: ice, hard candy, nuts, popcorn kernels, uncut raw carrots and apples
- Sticky: caramel, taffy, chewing gum, sticky candies
- Chewy: bagels, hard rolls, tough meats, beef jerky
- Crunchy: hard pretzels, chips, corn on the cob
- Anything known to cause cavities — sugary drinks, candy, etc.
Eating restricted foods may cause problems that will result in extra visits for repairs and will ultimately extend the length of treatment. You'll have plenty of time to enjoy these restricted foods after completing your treatment. Any questions about food choices should be directed to our team.
If something feels off
Extra wax is available at our office for a nominal fee if you run out. Call us at (626) 788-5911 if a bracket breaks, a wire is poking, or a part of your appliance comes loose. Most issues can wait until regular business hours; we'll schedule a short visit to get you comfortable and back on track.
Questions about your treatment?
Whether you're already in treatment or just starting to consider braces, we're here to help.