Can I brush my teeth on the first day of braces?

Adults and teenagers in London are increasingly looking to straighten their teeth with dental braces. At Whites Dental, we provide a wide range of braces treatments in London, including ceramic braces, Invisalign braces, Damon braces, and lingual braces. Why not book a free consultation with our dentist to discuss any questions you may have? If you are looking at braces for the over 30s, we can provide detailed assessments to help you choose the right treatment for your age, lifestyle, and goals.

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Can I Brush My Teeth on the First Day of Braces?

Yes — and you absolutely should. Orthodontic treatment helps improve your smile and self-confidence, but it does come with an adjustment period. After your braces are fitted, you may experience soreness, aching, or minor irritation inside your lips and gums. These symptoms usually fade within a couple of weeks.

Dental braces are designed to correct crowding, misaligned teeth, or bite issues. They’re commonly fitted during teenage years, but many adults also benefit. To get the best outcome from your braces, consistent and careful brushing is vital. Left unchecked, food and bacteria can collect around brackets and wires, increasing the risk of stains, cavities, and gum infections.

How to Brush on Day One

• Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
• Rinse your mouth before brushing to loosen trapped food
• Angle your toothbrush 45° to the gumline
• Brush above and below each bracket gently and thoroughly
• Replace your brush head more often during treatment

Can I Use an Electric Toothbrush With Braces?

Yes — electric toothbrushes are safe and often recommended during orthodontic treatment. Use a soft or orthodontic head and a low-to-medium speed setting to avoid damaging brackets.

• Don’t press too hard — let the brush do the work
• Replace the head every 6–8 weeks or if bristles fray early
• Focus on brushing each tooth individually

What to Avoid Eating Right After Getting Braces

Some foods may irritate your mouth in the early days of braces, even if they’re normally safe. Here are some foods to avoid straight after your braces fitting:

• Ice cream
• Thick rolls or crusty bread
• Thicker cuts of meat
• Spicy foods
• Citrus fruits

Once your mouth adjusts, these can usually be reintroduced. However, throughout treatment, try to avoid sticky foods and excess sugar to protect your braces and enamel. Avoid fizzy drinks due to their acidity and risk of enamel erosion.

Foods to limit include: popcorn, caramel, chewing gum, crisps, and sweets. A healthy diet will lower your risk of cavities and help ensure your smile looks fantastic when the braces come off.

How Often Should You Brush With Braces?

You should brush at least twice a day — ideally after every meal or snack. Regular brushing helps remove trapped food, prevents plaque build-up, and reduces the risk of gum disease.

• Morning: After breakfast
• Midday: After lunch or snacks (if possible)
• Evening: Before bed, ideally with mouthwash

Carry a travel toothbrush or interdental brushes to help clean on the go.

Brushing With Braces FAQs

Can I brush on the same day I get braces?

Yes. In fact, you should brush as normal — gently and thoroughly — starting the very first day.

Should I brush more often with braces?

Yes. Aim to brush after every meal to stop plaque from forming around brackets or wires.

Can I use electric toothbrushes with braces?

Absolutely. Just use a gentle setting and don’t press too hard. Many orthodontists recommend them for better cleaning.

Do I need special toothpaste with braces?

You can use regular fluoride toothpaste. Avoid whitening pastes during treatment, as they can cause uneven colour after removal.

Is mouthwash helpful while wearing braces?

Yes. Antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent gum problems and keep your breath fresh. It’s a great addition to brushing and flossing.

Does day 1 of braces hurt?

Most patients feel mild soreness or tightness in the first 24–48 hours. It’s normal — your teeth and mouth are adjusting. Over-the-counter pain relief and a soft-food diet can help.

Is it okay to brush only once a day with braces?

No — brushing once a day isn’t enough with braces. Food and plaque collect around brackets quickly. Aim to brush at least twice a day, and ideally after every meal.

How do you brush your teeth on the first day of braces?

Use a soft toothbrush or electric one. Angle your brush 45° to the gumline, gently clean above and below each bracket, and rinse thoroughly. Take your time and avoid scrubbing.

How do you sleep with braces on the first night?

Stick to soft foods beforehand and consider mild pain relief if needed. Sleeping on your back can reduce cheek pressure. Most people adjust within a few nights.

Learn More

If you’re looking for more information about orthodontic braces, please visit our orthodontics page.

Whites Dental has some of the best private dentists in London, providing metal braces, Six Month Smiles, ceramic braces, Damon braces, and Invisalign clear braces to patients near us.

Our clinic on Blackfriars Road is located in London Waterloo, adjacent to Waterloo train station and directly opposite Southwark Tube station. We’re also a 10-minute walk from London Bridge, Elephant and Castle Tube station, Borough Market, and just a 5-minute walk from Blackfriars and Southbank.

Our clinic in Kendal Street is located in London Marble Arch, right adjacent to Edgware Road. We are a short walk from Notting Hill, Paddington, Oxford Street and Hyde Park.