Everything You Need To Know About Your First Days With Braces
Congratulations, the day has finally arrived! You’re about to get your braces on, completing another step in your orthodontic journey, on your way to a beautiful smile! One of the most common questions we get from patients before they get braces is whether or not they hurt when they’re being placed on, or anytime throughout the process. Our answer is that placing the braces is painless, but after we thread the wire through the brackets, some soreness and discomfort may follow. However, this is completely normal, and we’re here to help you through it!
At Drs. Najem & Lehky Orthodontics, we used the most advanced orthodontic appliances and technology to ensure that you’ll have the most comfortable experience possible. However, we know that this experience is new and want you to have all the information you need during your time in braces. You’ll find helpful tips about what to expect right after you get braces, along with frequently asked questions Dr. Lehky and Dr. Najem get at the office below.
Before You Leave the Office
We want to make sure your braces fit comfortably before you leave our office. Following these steps after we wrap up your appointment will minimize your discomfort levels and ensure your treatment is progressing as planned.
- Check for wire ends and loose brackets - If anything feels uncomfortable after we place your braces, please be sure to let us know so we can fix it before you leave. Also, use your fingers and tongue to feel around for problem areas in your mouth.
- Ask for extra wax, rubber bands or any other materials - We have plenty of these in our office, so don’t be afraid of ask if you’d like extra!
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions - Whether you’re curious about what you can and cannot eat, or need a reminder of what you’re supposed to be doing in between treatments, please ask! We’re happy to help.
- Schedule your next appointment - To maximize efficiency and ensure you stay on schedule, book your next visit while you’re at our office.
Expect Some Soreness After You Leave the Office
After you leave our office, you may begin to feel the first effects of braces, which are excess saliva production, general tightness and soreness. This is normal, and may continue into your second and third days with braces. For any discomfort, we recommend taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) to help you feel better for the first couple of days. Avoid taking other medications, such as Advil, as it is known to slow tooth movement, which is exactly what you don’t want!
Frequently Asked Questions
What if one of my brackets or wires come loose?
Please use wax to cover the irritated area, and then give one of our offices a call, so we can fix the problem as soon as possible
Why am I getting cuts inside my mouth?
Our brackets are smoothed to ensure you have the most comfortable transition possible, but it does take time for your mouth to adjust. Use wax to cover the bracket that’s causing you irritation, but over time, your mouth will toughen and you’ll have fewer cuts.
What foods should I avoid?
Generally, you should avoid sticky or gooey foods, since they can easily get stuck in your braces. Hard foods, such as apples, celery, and carrots are still fine, as long as they’re cut up into smaller pieces. Finally, you should reduce the amounts of sugary, starchy, and acidic foods and beverages, as they can delay your treatment and cause other oral health problems down the line.
What changes should I be making in my oral hygiene routine?
Proper oral hygiene while undergoing orthodontic treatment is extremely important. In addition to regular brushing and flossing (2 times per day for brushing, and flossing at night), we recommend bringing a toothbrush handy while you’re away from home, and keeping your teeth clean in between meals. This is important for both braces and Invisalign patients! Additional items, such as an interdental toothbrush, floss threaders, and Peroxyl (a hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouth rinse) are also great to have with you. To learn more about maintaining proper oral hygiene during treatment, visit our oral hygiene page.
Still Feeling Sore? Contact Drs. Najem & Lehky Orthodontics Today!
If you have any questions about our variety of treatment options, or need tips for coping with your first days with braces, contact one of our offices. One of our dedicated staff members would be happy to assist you. We’re proud to provide high quality orthodontic care to patients in and around Fairlawn, Cortland, Warren, and Akron, OH.