If you’re reading this, chances are you’re on orthodontic treatment or thinking about getting braces. Correcting the alignment of your jaw and teeth is a great investment — and when done by a duly-licensed specialist, it can give you the smile you’ve always wanted. But many patients unknowingly do things that slow their progress down. Here’s what you can do — and avoid — to keep your treatment on track.
Hard, sticky and chewy foods can mess up your braces or cause brackets to detach — and both set your treatment back. Your dentist will give you a full rundown of what to avoid, but common culprits include corn on the cob, chewing gum, hard candy and nuts. When in doubt, skip it.
There’s a reason your dentist schedules follow-ups every few weeks. Each visit allows for proper adjustments so that the slow, steady repositioning of your teeth and jaw can continue without interruption. Missing appointments doesn’t just delay your treatment — it can undo progress already made.
Tempting on a hot day, we know. But chewing ice damages your teeth — braces or no braces. Make it a habit to skip it entirely.
Nail biting causes your teeth to shift and works against what your braces are trying to achieve. It also damages the nails themselves. If the habit is persistent, it may be worth checking in with a mental health professional, as it can be a sign of underlying anxiety.
Your dentist will prescribe a special brush designed to clean around brackets and reach areas a regular toothbrush can’t. Using it properly is one of the simplest forms of preventive care you can do at home to protect your teeth throughout treatment.
Always remember — your dentist is there to help. If anything feels off between appointments, don’t wait. Get in touch with us right away, as delays can cause setbacks that are harder to correct later. Ready to start or continue your treatment? Set up an appointment with Beduya Dental and we’ll assess your situation at our clinic in Malate, Manila.
