If you have never had braces before, you might be a little nervous about what to expect when you are getting started on your teeth-straightening journey. There is nothing to worry about. As long as you follow your orthodontist’s instructions, it should not take you too long to adapt to your new routine. What are some things you can do to make the adjustment period a little easier? This simple guide provides tips to get you through your first week with braces.
Do Not Be Afraid to Speak Up
When you are at your orthodontist’s office, do not hesitate to voice your questions and concerns. For example, you should be sure to let your care team know if you feel any wires poking your cheeks or gums. And if there is anything about your treatment instructions that seems unclear, be sure to ask for further explanation. Your orthodontist and their staff want you to be confident about your treatment, so they should be more than willing to spend a bit of extra time talking with you.
Adjust Your Diet
Your mouth may be sore during your first few days of treatment. You may find it beneficial to eat soft foods for a while. For example, you could enjoy smoothies, applesauce, scrambled eggs, ground meats, and other foods that require little to no chewing. Once the initial discomfort wears off, you can expand your diet — just be sure to continue avoiding anything that your orthodontist does not want you to consume, such as extremely hard and chewy foods.
Swish with Warm Salt Water
Warm salt water can minimize oral discomfort and help to reduce inflammation. Just mix a teaspoon of table salt into a cup of warm water and swish with the solution for 30 seconds. You can repeat this process several times a day.
Use Wax if Necessary
Your brackets and wires may cause some discomfort when they make contact with the interior of your cheeks. You can use orthodontic wax to create a comfortable barrier between your mouth and your braces. (If you are bothered by protruding wires, or you suspect that something else is wrong with your braces, give your orthodontist a call.)
Be Diligent about Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is always important, but it is especially so when you are wearing braces. Try to make it a habit to brush and floss after each meal. A floss threader can help you to thoroughly clean between your teeth. You could also try using orthodontic floss picks.
It can take a bit of time to adapt to braces, but before you know it, they should feel like a normal part of your daily life!
Meet the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Amin Mason, Polaris Orthodontic Center offers a range of treatments, including traditional metal braces, clear aligners, and more. If you have questions about what to expect while you are straightening your teeth, our team would be happy to speak with you. Get in touch with us at 614-781-6990.
