Feeling sick is never fun, and if you have braces, it adds another layer of things to think about. Between congestion, medicine, and changes in eating habits, your oral care routine might not be at the top of your to-do list. Dr. Watson and the team at Watson Orthodontics want to help you keep your braces in good shape—even when you’re not feeling your best. Let’s go over some simple ways to care for your braces while you recover.
Stay Hydrated and Keep Your Mouth Fresh
When you’re sick, dehydration can sneak up on you, leaving your mouth feeling dry and uncomfortable. A dry mouth can create the perfect environment for bacteria to build up around your braces.
Ways to keep your mouth hydrated and fresh:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to wash away bacteria and keep your mouth from feeling dry.
- Rinse with salt water to soothe irritation and help keep your gums and braces clean.
- Use alcohol-free mouthwash for a fresh, clean feel without the drying effects of alcohol-based rinses.
Keeping your mouth hydrated is an easy step that makes a big difference in maintaining your oral health while you recover. Up next, let’s go over which foods are the best choices when you’re not feeling well.
Braces-Friendly Foods for When You’re Sick
Eating the right foods can make a difference in how you feel and how well you take care of your braces. Dr. Watson and the team at Watson Orthodontics recommend sticking to soft, gentle foods that are easy to eat and won’t cause issues with your brackets or wires.
Best foods to eat:
- Warm soups and broths – Soothing and packed with nutrients, these are great for staying hydrated and nourished.
- Smoothies and yogurt – Soft, cool, and full of vitamins to help keep you energized while being gentle on your teeth.
- Mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs – Easy to chew and a good source of comfort food when you’re not feeling great.
- Applesauce and bananas – Naturally sweet, easy to eat, and gentle on sensitive teeth.
Foods to avoid:
- Crunchy crackers or chips – Hard foods can be tough on sore teeth and may damage brackets.
- Sugary cough drops and sports drinks – Sugar can cling to your braces, increasing the risk of plaque buildup.
- Citrus fruits or spicy foods – These may cause irritation, especially if your mouth feels dry or sensitive.
Choosing gentle foods can help you feel better without causing trouble for your braces. Next, let’s talk about keeping up with brushing and flossing when you’re under the weather.
Stick to Your Brushing and Flossing Routine
When you’re sick, keeping up with your regular oral hygiene routine might not be the first thing on your mind—but it’s just as important as getting rest and staying hydrated. Dr. Watson and the team at Watson Orthodontics remind patients that skipping brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup around brackets and wires.
- Brushing tips:
- Brush after taking liquid medicine – Many cough syrups and cold medicines contain sugar, which can stick to your teeth and braces.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush – If your mouth feels sensitive, a softer brush can make cleaning more comfortable.
- Rinse with fluoride mouthwash – This adds an extra layer of protection, especially if you’re too tired to brush as thoroughly as usual.
- Flossing tips:
- Use a floss threader or water flosser – These make it easier to clean around your brackets without extra effort.
- Floss gently – If your gums feel irritated, take your time and use gentle movements to avoid discomfort.
Even when you’re not feeling your best, sticking to these simple steps can help you avoid bigger orthodontic issues down the road. Now, let’s go over what to do if you experience any braces-related problems while you’re sick.
Handling Braces Problems While You’re Sick
Being sick is already frustrating, and dealing with a braces issue at the same time can make things even more complicated. Dr. Watson and the team at Watson Orthodontics know that minor orthodontic problems can happen at any time, but a few quick fixes can help keep you comfortable until you’re feeling better. Common issues and what to do:
Loose bracket
If a bracket comes loose, cover it with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation and call Watson Orthodontics to schedule a repair.
Poking wire
Use the eraser end of a pencil or a cotton swab to gently push the wire into a more comfortable position. If needed, apply orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges.
Sore teeth or gums
A warm saltwater rinse can help keep your mouth feeling fresh, and if needed, over-the-counter pain relievers may provide comfort.
Taking care of minor issues at home can help you stay comfortable while you recover. Next, let’s go over the importance of keeping your toothbrush and oral care tools clean when you’re sick.
Keep Your Toothbrush and Oral Care Tools Germ-Free
When you’re sick, your toothbrush and oral care tools can collect bacteria and viruses, which means keeping them clean is just as important as brushing itself. Dr. Watson and the team at Watson Orthodontics recommend taking a few extra steps to keep your toothbrush—and your mouth—fresh during and after an illness. How to keep your toothbrush and tools clean:
- Rinse thoroughly after each use – Run your toothbrush under hot water to remove lingering germs.
- Store it upright and let it dry – A damp toothbrush can become a breeding ground for bacteria, so make sure it gets plenty of air.
- Keep it away from others – Store your toothbrush separately to avoid spreading germs to family members.
- Replace it after you recover – Swapping out your toothbrush or electric brush head once you’re feeling better helps prevent reinfection.
A few small changes to your routine can help keep your braces and oral health in great shape, even when you’re not feeling your best.
Stay on Track, Even When You’re Under the Weather
Being sick can throw off your routine, but a little extra care can keep your braces in great shape while you recover. Dr. Watson and the team at Watson Orthodontics, with locations in Houston, Tomball, and Spring, are here to help you stay on top of your treatment no matter what. If you have any questions or need assistance with your braces, schedule your consultation and get the support you need!