How to Get Your Braces Off On Time (or Even Early!)

If you’ve started your orthodontic journey with braces or aligners, you’re likely counting down the days until you can show off your new smile. While every patient’s treatment time is unique, there are several things you can do to stay on track—or even finish early! In this blog, we’ll explore key habits to ensure your orthodontic treatment goes as smoothly and quickly as possible.

1. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene isn’t just about keeping your teeth clean—it’s essential for the success of your orthodontic treatment. When food particles and plaque build up around your braces, they can cause gum inflammation, cavities, and even delays in treatment.  The teeth will literally move slower if there is too much inflammation present and/or gunk all over the teeth that increases the friction during movement.  If the hygiene isn’t kept under control, then your orthodontist may even pause treatment simply to focus on getting things healthy again.  

Here’s how to maintain optimal hygiene:

  • Brush after every meal: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and braces thoroughly. Pay extra attention to the brackets and wires.  While two minutes is adequate for someone without braces, orthodontic patients should be spending closer to 5 minutes just brushing their teeth.
  • Check your teeth for plaque after you brush:  There are a lot of nooks and crannies for plaque to hide in when someone has braces.  After you get done brushing, take a moment to look in the mirror and make sure you got all of that plaque.  Patients tend to miss the gumline and the area directly underneath the wire.
  • Floss daily: Use orthodontic flossers or a floss threader to clean between your teeth and under the wires.  At the very least, use a water flosser when you’re feeling lazy. 
  • Rinse with mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent gum disease and freshen your breath.
  • Regular dental checkups: Continue to see your general dentist for cleanings and exams every six months.

For more tips on proper brushing and flossing techniques with braces, check out this guide by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

2. Don’t Miss Your Regular Appointments

Orthodontic adjustments are critical to keeping your treatment on track. At each appointment, your orthodontist will tighten wires, change elastics, or make other adjustments to move your teeth closer to their final positions. Missing appointments can delay progress and extend your treatment time.

Dr. Mathue Faulkner DDS MS, the orthodontic expert at Rise + Smile Orthodontics, emphasizes the importance of attending all scheduled visits. These appointments allow your orthodontist to monitor your progress and address any potential issues before they become bigger problems.

3. Be Mindful of What You Eat

Certain foods can damage your braces and prolong your treatment. Sticky, hard, or chewy foods can break brackets, bend wires, or cause other complications. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid sticky foods: Say no to caramels, gum, and taffy.
  • Skip hard foods: Stay away from nuts, popcorn, and hard candies. Cut fruits and vegetables into small, manageable pieces.
  • Limit sugary treats: Excess sugar can increase the risk of cavities around your brackets.
  • Take smaller bites and/or cut up foods:  Smaller bites tend to break fewer brackes. 

By being mindful of your diet, you can prevent unnecessary repairs and keep your treatment on schedule.  A single broken bracket can add up to 4 months of additional treatment time.  

4. Avoid Habits That Could Damage Your Braces

Certain habits can inadvertently harm your braces, leading to treatment delays. Avoid the following:

  • Chewing on pens or pencils
  • Biting your nails
  • Using your teeth to open packages
  • Picking at the braces 

These actions can damage wires and brackets, requiring extra appointments and extending your treatment time.

5. Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions

Your orthodontist’s guidance is designed to ensure the best possible outcome for your treatment. Whether it’s wearing elastics, using specific appliances, or following dietary restrictions, adhering to these instructions is crucial. Dr. Faulkner advises all patients to communicate openly if they have any concerns or questions about their treatment plan.

6. Wear Your Elastics as Prescribed

Elastics (rubber bands) play a vital role in aligning your bite. Not wearing them as instructed can significantly delay your progress. To stay on track:

  • Wear them 24/7 unless told otherwise
  • Replace them several times per day to maintain proper tension
  • Keep extras on hand in case one breaks

The consistent use of elastics can make a big difference in how quickly your treatment progresses.  In some cases, good elastic wear can save up to a year off of treatment.  Poor elastic wear, on the other hand, not only delays treatment but it can lead to less than ideal results.  It can’t be overemphasized how large of a factor good elastic wear can have on your treatment time. 

7. Aligners: Tips for Staying on Track with Invisalign

If you’re using Invisalign or another clear aligner system, the same principles apply, with a few additional tips:

  • Wear your aligners 20-22 hours per day: Only remove them for eating, drinking (anything other than water), and oral hygiene.
  • Follow the wear schedule: Change aligners as instructed by your orthodontist, typically every one to two weeks.
  • Keep them clean: Rinse your aligners daily and brush them gently to prevent discoloration and odors.
  • Store them safely: Always use the case provided to avoid losing or damaging your aligners.

Research published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics highlights that consistent wear of aligners is one of the most important factors in achieving timely results.

8. Communicate with Your Orthodontist

If you experience any issues with your braces or aligners, such as broken wires or lost aligners, contact your orthodontist immediately. Quick action can prevent delays and keep your treatment moving forward. Dr. Faulkner and the team at Rise + Smile Orthodontics are always ready to help you stay on track.

9. Maintain a Positive Mindset

Orthodontic treatment is a journey, and staying motivated can make a big difference. Celebrate small milestones and remind yourself of the benefits of a straight, healthy smile. A positive attitude can help you stay consistent with the habits that contribute to a successful outcome.

How to Get Your Braces Off On Time (or Even Early!)

Getting your braces or aligners off on time (or even early) is achievable with dedication and the right habits. By practicing excellent oral hygiene, attending regular appointments, being mindful of your diet, and following your orthodontist’s instructions, you can enjoy a smoother and faster orthodontic experience.

For more tips and personalized advice, visit Dr. Mathue Faulkner DDS MS and the team at Rise + Smile Orthodontics. Ready to start your journey to a better smile? Schedule a consultation today!