What Should I Expect in the First Week of Getting My Braces On

So you have decided to get braces? Good for you! Let’s get those pearly whites straight and make that smile shine brighter than ever before. For many, this is the hardest step, the not knowing what to expect, so many questions… so much stress. Have no fear, because we are about to let you in on a little secret… everyone is nervous! This is uncharted territory for anyone because not many people get braces put on twice. This guide is to help you de-stress a little and take some of your concerns aware by telling you what to expect your first week of getting your braces put on.

Getting the braces applied and affixed to your teeth does not hurt. Once the wire is engaged to the braces, this is where you may have heard that it can become sore and uncomfortable. This wire is there to make sure the teeth are being positioned into the desired locations. Over the next months, each visit to your orthodontist will result in adjusting this little by little, slowly re-positioning your smile. The first few days with your new braces will be the most discomfort you will feel. It can also take the longest to get used to.

The first thing you may notice about your new hardware is the sensation of it sticking out. This is normal, and no they are not sticking out. This is a type of illusion since your mouth has never felt anything but smooth teeth under your lips. Baptiste Orthodontics promises to always have extra wax on hand to help “smooth out” those braces that may cause slight irritation to your cheek tissues.

Braces will adhere quickly to the tooth but to make sure they stay there, a full day is usually necessary for them to attach completely. We strongly advise that patients should wait several hours before trying to eat solid foods. Most patients have even opted to only consume soft foods or liquids for the first 24 hours to help ensure the bands are affixed properly, plus it helps ease the pressure and tension that may still be there. Remember that all cases and patients are different. For some tenderness can last a few days, for others, it can recover quickly. No one is the same. If soreness does persist, over the counter pain medication can be taken to help ease that discomfort.

The biggest thing when adjusting to your new braces is having to watch what you are eating. Many foods that you probably enjoyed and took for granted before are now going to have to wait until braces are removed. This is because certain foods have a tendency to bend or break wires, even damage the brackets. If these become damaged, it could mean a longer time in braces. Your orthodontist will have a list of foods that should be avoided once your braces are on.

When looking for an orthodontist in Orlando, make sure you turn to Baptiste Orthodontics!