Getting sick can throw off even the most reliable routine. A cold, the flu or a stomach bug can leave you with zero energy for anything extra, and looking after your braces can start to feel like one more chore on the list. Staying on track with your orthodontic treatment still matters though, even on the days you would rather not leave the couch. Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberg of Orthodontics of South Miami put together a few simple tips for caring for your braces while you recover, so you can keep moving toward the smile you are working for.
Reschedule Appointments and Visits
While it is tempting to push through and show up anyway, coming into Orthodontics of South Miami while you are contagious is not the best idea. Your health always comes first. Give our South Miami, Pinecrest or Kendall office a call to move your in-person visit to a day when you are feeling stronger. If a bracket pops loose or a wire starts poking before then, our virtual consultations let you get advice from home without the wait.
If a wire or bracket does get damaged, Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberg suggest trimming the wire or tucking the loose bracket somewhere safe so it stops irritating your cheeks. There is no need to stress. We will repair any damage once you are back on your feet. If it feels like more than a minor poke, here is how to tell whether it counts as an orthodontic emergency.
Stay On Top of Oral Hygiene and Braces Care
When you are sick, staying in bed sounds a lot better than standing at the sink. Skipping your oral care routine can lead to cavities and plaque buildup though, and that can slow down your progress with braces. A couple of minutes brushing and flossing keeps your smile on schedule.
Here is a quick refresher on how to brush properly with braces.
- Rinse your mouth with water first.
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, clean above and below the brackets in a circular motion.
- Brush the inner surfaces of your teeth, making sure to reach both the upper and lower teeth thoroughly.
- Gently clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth in a back-and-forth motion.
- Don’t forget to clean your tongue, and finish by rinsing your mouth.
An interdental brush works well for clearing out food that gets stuck between your braces and teeth. Try to brush twice a day even when you feel run down. For more ways to keep things clean between appointments, these brushing tips for braces are worth a quick read. Your future smile will thank you.
Eat the Right Foods
Being sick often kills your appetite, but your body still needs good fuel to recover and your braces still need gentle treatment. Reach for soft, warm options like chicken noodle soup, vegetable broth or oatmeal to ease a sore throat and keep you nourished. Soft fruit like bananas makes an easy snack too. If you want more ideas, here is a full list of braces-friendly foods.
As always, steer clear of sugary foods and drinks. Sugar feeds tooth decay and plaque, and both make caring for your braces harder.
Feeling Nauseous?
Throwing up is an unpleasant part of being sick for a lot of people. If it happens, you will probably want to brush right away to get rid of the sour taste, but hold off for a bit. Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberg recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing so you are not spreading stomach acid across your teeth, which wears down enamel over time. In the meantime, rinse with water or an antiseptic mouthwash to neutralize the acid and freshen your breath.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is one of the simplest things you can do while you recover. It helps flush toxins from your body and keeps your mouth from drying out, which lowers your risk of dry mouth and tooth decay. Keep a bottle within reach so you can sip throughout the day without getting out of bed.
Try Saltwater Gargles
Saltwater gargles are an old standby for sore throats, and they happen to be great for your mouth too. Swishing with salt water can calm plaque and inflammation, which really helps when braces are rubbing your gums the wrong way. It also soothes any small cuts or sores the brackets leave behind.
Make Recovery Your Priority
It is easy to let braces care slide when you feel awful, but keeping up with your oral hygiene actually helps you bounce back sooner. Once you are feeling like yourself again, give us a call to reschedule your adjustment appointment, and Dr. Ross or Dr. Rothenberg will get you back on track at Orthodontics of South Miami.
Whether you are still resting up or ready to jump back into your routine, our team is here for you the whole way. Have a question or need a little extra guidance? Reach out to our South Miami, Pinecrest or Kendall area office anytime.
Caring for Braces When You’re Sick: Common Questions
Should I keep my orthodontic appointment if I have a cold?
If you are running a fever, coughing or otherwise contagious, it is better to reschedule. Call your South Miami, Pinecrest or Kendall office and we will find a new time that works. A virtual consultation is a good option if you have questions in the meantime.
Can I skip brushing my braces for a few days while I recover?
Try not to. Even a quick brush twice a day keeps plaque and cavities from setting your treatment back. If standing at the sink feels like too much, a rinse with water or salt water helps until you have the energy for a full routine.
What should I do about a broken bracket while I’m sick at home?
Keep the loose piece somewhere safe, cover anything sharp with orthodontic wax and book a virtual consult if you want guidance before coming in. We will handle the repair once you are feeling better.