When patients begin braces or Invisalign® treatment, Dr. Kothari provides detailed instructions on how to care for their appliances. However, after a busy summer, some of those details may be easy to forget. With a new school year approaching, here’s a back-to-school pop quiz to test your knowledge on braces care. Write down your answers and check them at the end of the post!
1. What should you do if a braces bracket comes loose?
A. Call to let the office know. If you can’t be seen right away, use sterilized tweezers to gently reposition the bracket and cover it with orthodontic wax until your visit.
B. Use duct tape to put it back on.
C. It doesn’t matter. Brackets aren’t important.
2. Do you need to see your regular dentist during orthodontic treatment?
A. No. Orthodontic visits are enough.
B. Yes. Regular checkups and cleanings, typically twice a year, are still recommended.
C. Only if there is pain or a dental issue.
3. Is it okay to eat with Invisalign aligners in?
A. No. Aligners should always be removed for eating or drinking anything other than water.
B. Sometimes, with soft foods.
C. Yes, since they are replaced anyway.
4. How should food stuck in braces be handled?
A. Avoid brushing until later.
B. Use any object nearby to remove it.
C. Use an interproximal brush or carefully use dental floss to remove debris.
5. What should you do if a braces wire is poking your cheek?
A. Try to remove the wire completely.
B. Gently push the wire flat with a Q-tip or pencil eraser and cover with orthodontic wax. If needed, carefully trim the end with sterilized nail clippers and contact the office to address it.
C. Leave it as is.
6. Can you eat hard or sticky foods with braces?
A. Yes, there are no restrictions.
B. No. Hard, chewy, and sticky foods can damage braces and slow treatment.
C. Only if softened first.
7. Do you need special protection for sports with braces?
A. No.
B. Sports should be avoided.
C. A mouthguard should be worn during sports.
8. What helps with early irritation from braces?
A. Saltwater rinses and orthodontic wax can help while the mouth adjusts.
B. Cover braces with gum.
C. Remove braces.
9. How often should teeth be brushed with braces?
A. Occasionally.
B. At least three to four times a day (morning, after meals, and before bed).
C. Once daily.
10. How long should Invisalign aligners be worn each day?
A. 20–22 hours per day.
B. Only during sleep.
C. All day without removal.
11. Is flossing necessary with braces?
A. No.
B. Yes, daily using floss threaders or orthodontic floss tools.
C. Only when food is stuck.
12. Can rubber bands be doubled to speed up treatment?
A. Yes.
B. Only occasionally.
C. No. Rubber bands should only be used exactly as directed, since improper use can harm tooth and root health.
13. Can Invisalign trays be skipped to speed up results?
A. Yes.
B. No. Each tray is designed in a specific sequence for controlled tooth movement.
C. Sometimes.
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Answers:
1-A
2-B
3-A
4-C
5-B
6-B
7-C
8-A
9-B
10-A
11-B
12-C
13-B
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12–13 Correct – Teeth-Straightening Pro
A strong understanding of braces and aligner care shows great treatment compliance and results.
8–11 Correct – Braces or Invisalign Beginner
Good foundation, with a few areas to brush up on for best results.
7 or Less – Review Needed
Following instructions closely is key to successful treatment, and guidance is always available for support.
