No one likes being sick, and when you’re dealing with braces on top of that, even the simplest tasks can feel like a hassle. Dr. Larry Layfield and the team at New Braunfels Orthodontic Associates know that staying on top of your orthodontic care during sick days can make a big difference in keeping everything on track. Let’s go over some simple and effective ways to take care of your braces while you rest and recover.
Stay Hydrated
Did you know that when you’re sick, staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to keep your teeth and braces in good shape? A dry mouth creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, which can lead to plaque buildup around brackets and wires. Dr. Larry Layfield at New Braunfels Orthodontic Associates reminds patients that hydration plays a huge role in keeping their oral health on track, especially during illness.
Here’s how to keep hydration working in your favor:
- Stick to Water – It helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth from feeling dry.
- Sip Herbal Tea – A warm, sugar-free tea can soothe your throat and provide hydration without harming your teeth.
- Rinse After Medicine – If you take cough syrup or lozenges, rinse with water afterward to keep sugar from settling on your braces.
Keeping your mouth moist and free from lingering sugars will make a big difference in your oral health while you’re recovering. But hydration is only part of the equation—next, let’s talk about how to keep up with brushing and flossing, even when you’re feeling run down.
Brushing & Flossing
When you’re not feeling your best, even basic routines like brushing and flossing can feel like a chore. But skipping them—even for a day—can lead to plaque buildup around your brackets and wires, making your next orthodontic visit a little less pleasant. The New Braunfels Orthodontic Associates team emphasizes that maintaining oral hygiene during sick days is just as important as getting plenty of rest.
Here’s how to make it easier when you’re not up for a full routine:
Keep a toothbrush nearby
If getting up feels like too much, stash a travel toothbrush and toothpaste on your nightstand.
Use a water flosser
If flossing feels like a struggle, a water flosser can make cleaning around brackets quicker and easier.
Switch to a soft-bristled brush
If your mouth feels sensitive, a softer toothbrush will still get the job done without irritation.
Rinse before brushing
If you’ve been sick to your stomach, rinse with water first to protect your enamel before brushing.
Even small efforts make a big difference in keeping your teeth clean while you recover. But hygiene isn’t the only thing to consider—next, let’s talk about what to eat to stay comfortable and protect your braces while you’re sick.
Eat Smart: Braces-Friendly Foods
When you’re feeling under the weather, eating the right foods can help you recover while also protecting your braces. Soft, easy-to-eat meals are your best bet—not just for comfort, but also to avoid irritating your mouth or damaging brackets. Dr. Larry Layfield at New Braunfels Orthodontic Associates recommends sticking to gentle, nutrient-rich foods that are easy on your stomach and your braces.
Go-To Foods for Sick Days
- Warm soups – A bowl of chicken noodle or vegetable soup is soothing and packed with nutrients. Just let it cool a bit before eating.
- Applesauce – An easy way to get vitamins without the hassle of chewing.
- Bananas – Soft, gentle on the stomach, and full of potassium to help with recovery.
- Scrambled eggs – A protein boost that’s easy to eat.
- Herbal tea with honey – Soothes a sore throat while keeping you hydrated.
Foods to Avoid
- Crunchy snacks – Chips, crackers, and granola can be tough on braces and may cause irritation.
- Sugary treats – Gummy candies, sodas, and sports drinks can stick to brackets and increase plaque buildup.
- Acidic fruits – Oranges, lemons, and other citrus can be harsh on sensitive teeth.
Choosing the right foods can make a big difference in how you feel and how well your braces stay intact. But beyond food choices, there’s another important step to take—keeping your toothbrush and orthodontic tools germ-free while you recover.
Germ-Free Braces and Toothbrush Tips
When you’re sick, germs are everywhere—including on your toothbrush and orthodontic tools. The last thing you want is to keep reintroducing bacteria into your mouth while you’re trying to recover. Dr. Larry Layfield and the team at New Braunfels Orthodontic Associates recommend a few simple steps to keep everything as fresh and clean as a dip in the Comal River.
Toothbrush Care During and After Illness
- Rinse thoroughly – After brushing, rinse your toothbrush under hot water to wash away bacteria.
- Let it air dry – Store it upright in an open area instead of in a closed container where germs thrive.
- Replace it after illness – Once you’re feeling better, swap out your toothbrush or toothbrush head to avoid reinfection.
Keeping Braces and Appliances Germ-Free
- Rinse retainers and aligners daily – Use an orthodontic-approved cleaner or brush them gently with a soft toothbrush.
- Soak aligners or retainers – A quick soak in a cleaning solution can eliminate lingering bacteria.
- Wash hands before touching your mouth – This helps reduce the spread of germs to your braces, aligners, or retainers.
A few extra precautions can go a long way in keeping your oral hygiene on track while you’re recovering. Once you’re feeling better, it’s always a good idea to check in with your orthodontist to make sure your braces stayed in good shape during sick days.
Bounce Back and Keep That Smile on Track
Sick days don’t have to throw your braces off course! A little extra care—staying hydrated, brushing regularly, and choosing the right foods—can keep your teeth in great shape while you recover. Dr. Larry Layfield and the team at New Braunfels Orthodontic Associates are always here to help if you have questions or need a post-illness checkup. Feeling better and ready to get back on track? Book your free consultation at our New Braunfels office today and let’s keep that smile going strong!
