Metal Braces in San Antonio, TX

Metal braces used to be clunky, awkward, and rough on the inside of the mouth. Nowadays, patients who choose to use metal braces can expect their braces to have a sleeker, less noticeable design and feel comfortable to wear. Want to learn more about metal braces or our other orthodontic options? Please contact us to schedule a consultation, and we can create an orthodontic treatment plan that's based on your smile.

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What Foods Should You Avoid with Metal Braces?

In general, patients should try to avoid foods that are very crunchy, sticky, or hard to bite into. Things like licorice, taffy, caramel, and chewing gum can easily get stuck in the brackets and wires of metal braces and be difficult to clean. Crunchy foods like apples and carrots can be enjoyed if they are cut up first and chewed with the back teeth. Corn should always be cut off the cob first, and popcorn should be avoided, as the hulls can get stuck in areas that are hard to brush and floss. Our team can provide more information for you at your child's consultation.

Do Metal Braces Hurt?

Your child's teeth are not used to being shifted, so it's completely normal to experience some pain and soreness for the first few days after getting braces. We recommend having some over-the-counter pain medication and popsicles on hand to help numb any pain or discomfort they may feel. Patients can also feel soreness in their teeth and gums after orthodontic visits where they have their braces tightened, but they should begin to feel less and less discomfort as their treatment goes on and their teeth get used to being adjusted.

How Do Patients with Metal Braces Avoid Tooth Decay?

Practicing great oral hygiene at home is the key to ensuring that your child's teeth stay healthy throughout their orthodontic treatment. Patients can brush their teeth with a normal toothbrush and toothpaste if they have braces. Flossing with normal dental floss can be tricky with metal braces, but there are special flossing tools designed for patients with braces to make it faster and easier. It's a good idea to brush after eating a meal or at least have them rinse their mouth out with water and check to make sure nothing is stuck in their braces or teeth.