So you just got braces?
Congratulations, you’ll have a beautifully straight smile by the end of your treatment. We know that your new braces might feel a little strange, so we’ve put together a few tips on how to adjust to them.
1) First things first – be patient.
Having your braces put on by your orthodontist usually takes about 1-2 hours, but don’t worry, it is a painless procedure. Once the braces have been adhered to your teeth, they may feel tight or uncomfortable. This actually means that your teeth are already beginning to move, and the discomfort should only last for about a week. You may like to consider over the counter painkillers like ibuprofen for relief.
2) Soft Foods
Since your teeth will feel a little more sensitive than usual, it’s a good idea to stick to soft foods for the first week or so. Some good examples are soup, yogurt, mashed potato, scrambled eggs and pasta. These will be much easier to eat with your sensitive teeth.
3) Follow your Orthodontist’s advice
To get the best results out of your orthodontic treatment, you should always listen to the directions that are given to you by your orthodontist. By following their advice, it will help to make sure that you don’t go over the duration of your treatment time. If they tell you to wear your elastic bands, wear your elastic bands!
4) Clean them properly
It’s really important that you still clean your teeth properly while you have braces. Cleaning might take a little longer than usual because of the brackets on your teeth, but if you don’t clean them properly you could end up needing a whole lot of fillings once you have your braces removed. And yes, you still need to floss every day!
5) Avoid some foods
Your orthodontist should be able to tell you which specific foods to avoid because they can damage your braces. Foods like apples, sticky lollies, ice cubes and some hard nuts can damage your braces so they should be avoided.
6) Smile
Don’t feel self-conscious, there are plenty of people who have braces just like you. Keep on smiling throughout your treatment. Be proud of the fact that soon you’ll have beautifully straight teeth all the time!
Getting your braces can be both scary and exciting. The first month is a bit of an adjustment period, but you’ll forget about them in no time. Keep on smiling and laughing throughout your treatment. Time will fly and soon enough you’ll be getting them off and showing the world your bright, straight smile.
If you are considering undergoing orthodontic treatment, Contact us to arrange an appointment at our Sunnybank and Morningside practice locations.