Orthodontic Tips & Tricks
Expert advice to help you achieve the best results in the shortest time
Small Habits, Big Results
Success with orthodontic treatment isn't just about the braces—it's about the daily choices you make. Following these tips will help you finish treatment faster, avoid complications, and achieve the most beautiful results possible!
Whether you're brand new to braces or a seasoned pro, these expert tips will help you make the most of your treatment journey.
Understanding Priority Levels
Essential
Critical for success—don't skip these!
Important
Highly recommended for best results
Helpful
Great tips to make things easier
Brush After Every Meal
⭐ EssentialMake it a habit to brush within 15 minutes of eating. Food particles trapped around brackets can lead to decay and discoloration. Keep a travel toothbrush kit with you at school or work!
Set Elastic Reminders
⭐ EssentialUse your phone to set daily reminders for changing your elastics. Consistent wear is the #1 factor in staying on schedule with your treatment timeline.
Floss Daily Without Fail
⭐ EssentialUse floss threaders or a water flosser to clean between teeth. This prevents white spots and gum disease. Make it part of your nighttime routine—it gets easier with practice!
Cut Food Into Small Pieces
⭐ ImportantInstead of biting into whole apples, sandwiches, or corn on the cob, cut them into bite-sized pieces. This protects your brackets and wires from damage.
Use a Straw for Sugary Drinks
⭐ helpfulIf you drink soda or juice (sparingly!), use a straw to minimize contact with your braces. Better yet, stick with water most of the time to protect your enamel.
Avoid the "Danger Foods"
⭐ EssentialStay away from popcorn, hard candy, ice, sticky candy, and whole nuts. These are the top culprits for broken brackets and bent wires that can delay your treatment.
Never Miss Appointments
⭐ EssentialEach adjustment appointment moves you closer to your dream smile. Missed appointments can add months to your treatment time. Schedule your next appointment before leaving the office!
Follow Instructions Exactly
⭐ EssentialWhether it's elastic wear, Invisalign aligner schedules, or appliance care—following Dr. Feller's instructions precisely is the fastest path to finishing on time.
Track Your Progress
⭐ helpfulTake monthly selfies to see how far you've come! Watching your smile transform is incredibly motivating and reminds you why you're putting in the effort.
Use Orthodontic Wax
⭐ helpfulKeep orthodontic wax handy for any irritation. Apply small amounts to brackets or wires that rub against your cheeks or lips. It provides instant relief!
Invest in an Electric Toothbrush
⭐ helpfulElectric toothbrushes make cleaning around brackets much easier and more effective. Many orthodontists recommend them for superior plaque removal.
Keep Soft Foods on Hand
⭐ helpfullAfter adjustment appointments, your teeth may be tender. Stock up on soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup for those first few days.
Communicate With Your Orthodontist
⭐ EssentialIf something doesn't feel right, speak up! We're here to help. Don't wait until your next appointment if you have concerns or questions.
Rinse After Snacking
⭐ ImportantCan't brush immediately after eating? At minimum, rinse vigorously with water to dislodge food particles. This simple step helps prevent cavities between brushings.
Wear Your Retainer Religiously
⭐ EssentialOnce your braces come off, your retainer is essential for maintaining results. Teeth can shift at any age—protect your investment by wearing it as directed!
Brush After Every Meal
⭐ EssentialMake it a habit to brush within 15 minutes of eating. Food particles trapped around brackets can lead to decay and discoloration. Keep a travel toothbrush kit with you at school or work!
Set Elastic Reminders
⭐ EssentialUse your phone to set daily reminders for changing your elastics. Consistent wear is the #1 factor in staying on schedule with your treatment timeline.
Floss Daily Without Fail
⭐ EssentialUse floss threaders or a water flosser to clean between teeth. This prevents white spots and gum disease. Make it part of your nighttime routine—it gets easier with practice!
Use Orthodontic Wax
⭐ helpfulKeep orthodontic wax handy for any irritation. Apply small amounts to brackets or wires that rub against your cheeks or lips. It provides instant relief!
Invest in an Electric Toothbrush
⭐ helpfulElectric toothbrushes make cleaning around brackets much easier and more effective. Many orthodontists recommend them for superior plaque removal.
Rinse After Snacking
⭐ ImportantCan't brush immediately after eating? At minimum, rinse vigorously with water to dislodge food particles. This simple step helps prevent cavities between brushings.
Cut Food Into Small Pieces
⭐ ImportantInstead of biting into whole apples, sandwiches, or corn on the cob, cut them into bite-sized pieces. This protects your brackets and wires from damage.
Use a Straw for Sugary Drinks
⭐ helpfulIf you drink soda or juice (sparingly!), use a straw to minimize contact with your braces. Better yet, stick with water most of the time to protect your enamel.
Avoid the "Danger Foods"
⭐ EssentialStay away from popcorn, hard candy, ice, sticky candy, and whole nuts. These are the top culprits for broken brackets and bent wires that can delay your treatment.
Keep Soft Foods on Hand
⭐ helpfullAfter adjustment appointments, your teeth may be tender. Stock up on soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup for those first few days.
Never Miss Appointments
⭐ EssentialEach adjustment appointment moves you closer to your dream smile. Missed appointments can add months to your treatment time. Schedule your next appointment before leaving the office!
Follow Instructions Exactly
⭐ EssentialWhether it's elastic wear, Invisalign aligner schedules, or appliance care—following Dr. Feller's instructions precisely is the fastest path to finishing on time.
Track Your Progress
⭐ helpfulTake monthly selfies to see how far you've come! Watching your smile transform is incredibly motivating and reminds you why you're putting in the effort.
Communicate With Your Orthodontist
⭐ EssentialIf something doesn't feel right, speak up! We're here to help. Don't wait until your next appointment if you have concerns or questions.
Wear Your Retainer Religiously
⭐ EssentialOnce your braces come off, your retainer is essential for maintaining results. Teeth can shift at any age—protect your investment by wearing it as directed!
The Essential Do's & Don'ts
Quick reference guide for successful treatment
DO These Things
Brush for 2 minutes, 3 times daily
Wear your elastics 24/7 (except when eating)
Use mouthguard for sports
Cut hard foods into small pieces
Call immediately if something breaks
Keep all scheduled appointments
DON'T Do These
Chew ice, pens, or fingernails
Eat popcorn, hard candy, or sticky foods
Skip brushing or flossing
Forget to wear your elastics
Try to fix broken brackets yourself
Miss adjustment appointments
Quick Wins for Treatment Success
Simple strategies that make a big difference
Pack a Treatment Kit
Keep a small bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, wax, and elastics for on-the-go care.
Set Phone Alarms
Create recurring reminders for elastic changes, aligner switches, or brushing after lunch.
Create a Routine
Make orthodontic care automatic by incorporating it into your existing morning and evening routines.
Celebrate Milestones
Reward yourself for consistency! Celebrate things like 30 days of perfect elastic wear or never missing an appointment.
Dr. Feller's Top 3 Pro Tips
You've Got This!
Remember, orthodontic treatment is a partnership between you and our team. By following these tips and staying committed to your care routine, you're investing in a lifetime of confident smiles!