Tips to Succeed with Teen Braces or Aligners

Congratulations on starting the journey to a straighter smile! Whether you have braces or Invisalign® aligners, one fact is true: Your daily habits will make the biggest difference. Here are some easy, teen-friendly tips to keep you on track.

1. Wear time (aligners): Wear your aligners 20–22 hours a day. Treat them like part of your outfit – always have them in (except when eating or cleaning your teeth). Carry your case everywhere, and pop them in right after eating. The more consistently you wear them, the faster you’ll finish.
2. Braces care: Eat soft foods at first. Avoid sticky/caramel candies, popcorn, and gum so brackets stay in place. If you get wax from your orthodontist, use it to soothe any rubbing. Keep a small mirror handy to check for broken wires or loose brackets between visits.
3. Oral hygiene: Brush after every meal (or at least twice a day) and floss once daily. If you have braces, use a floss threader or water flosser. If you have aligners, clean both your teeth and the aligners before putting them back in. This prevents cavities and keeps things fresh. Set reminders on your phone if that helps.
4. Keep all appointments: Missing check-ups will delay progress. Think of each visit as a mini power-up to your treatment.
5. Stay organized: For aligners, keep track of which pair you’re on and when to switch. For braces, remember to change rubber bands or springs as directed. Use your phone’s calendar or an app to set alerts.

Life still goes on! For sports or band practice, use a mouthguard over braces (or remove aligners in sports with a regular guard). If you have a big event (sports game, concert, date), plan ahead: if you have aligners, take them out in advance of the event; if you have braces, pack snacks that are braces-safe so you’re prepared.

Stay motivated: Set small goals. Mark calendar days for new aligner pairs or brace adjustments. Celebrate milestones (the day you get off the final aligner tray or have all braces taken off!). Your friends might notice your progress too, and seeing your smile improve can be really inspiring. If you’re aiming for a special event (prom, graduation), use that timeline as motivation to stick with your routine.

Text or call 503 • 246 • 9802 to make a free consultation at Garfinkle Orthodontics. Our SW Portland team will help you pick braces or Invisalign and set up a plan you can really follow. Come visit us at 1820 SW Vermont St., Suite O, Portland OR 97219 – we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way!