The adhesive used to attach the braces to your teeth sets quickly, so you can eat soon after leaving our office. However, please be mindful of the list of suggested foods that may be harmful to the braces. Until you get used to eating with your new braces, you may find softer foods more comfortable.
What to Expect During the First Days with Braces
- Initial Sensation: Initially, the braces may feel like they “stick out.” This is normal. As you become accustomed to your braces and your tooth alignment improves, this sensation will disappear, and the braces will feel like a normal part of your mouth.
- Discomfort: Some discomfort may begin a few hours after your braces are placed. Your teeth, especially the front teeth, may be tender and sensitive to pressure. While some patients report no discomfort, most experience soreness by the second day, which gradually disappears within a week. The duration of discomfort varies for each patient.
- Pain Relief: You may wish to take a non-prescription pain reliever, such as the medication you usually take for headaches and other discomforts. If you are often sore after an appointment, taking the medication before your appointment can be helpful for maximum effectiveness.
Before Leaving the Office
Before you leave our office, follow these steps for optimal orthodontic treatment and to minimize discomfort:
- Check for Irritation: Using your tongue, check to ensure there aren’t any wires or parts of the braces poking your cheeks, tongue, or lips.
- Understand Instructions: Make sure you understand what you need to do until your next appointment. This could include wearing elastics (rubber bands) as instructed, adjusting an expander, or following specific hygiene or diet instructions.
- Supplies: Ensure you have an adequate supply of dental wax, elastic bands, or anything else you may need between appointments.
- Schedule Next Appointment: Always schedule your next appointment before leaving our office. Delaying this can extend your treatment time and complicate scheduling, as appointments are often made 6-10 weeks in advance. Postponing appointments is a common contributor to extended treatment time.