For many, the journey to a straighter smile begins with a visit to the orthodontist and the placement of braces. If you’re thinking about starting this process yourself, you may be wondering how it feels to wear them regularly. It’s difficult to articulate as everyone will have a slightly different experience, but there are some universal sensations to speak of. Read on to step into the shoes of someone with braces and learn what it’s like.
Your Braces Placement Appointment
The day you get your braces is an exciting milestone. Your orthodontist will start by cleaning and drying your teeth thoroughly. Next, they’ll apply a special adhesive to each tooth and carefully place the brackets. Once the brackets are in position, your orthodontist will thread archwire through them and secure it with elastic bands.
You may feel some pressure as the brackets are attached to your teeth. However, this sensation is temporary and usually fades once the braces are fully in place. You may also feel some soreness in your jaw because you’ll need to hold it open for a while.
Your First Few Days
During the first few days with braces, you may notice changes in how your teeth feel and function. Tooth tenderness, increased saliva production, and slight speech impediments are all normal as your mouth adjusts to your braces.
During this period, it’s best to eat softer foods like bananas, yogurt, warm soup, soft cheese, and smoothies. These will help you get the nutrition you need while avoiding the discomfort of chewing.
Ongoing Adjustments
Throughout your orthodontic treatment, you’ll visit your orthodontist regularly (about every 4 – 10 weeks) for adjustments and checkups. During these appointments, your orthodontist will tighten the braces, change elastic bands, and make any necessary adjustments.
These visits are important to keep your treatment on track, but they can cause discomfort similar to the placement of your braces. So, follow the same routine during each small adjustment of managing pain with over-the-counter medication, cold compresses, and soft foods. As your treatment progresses, you may feel the braces starting to rub the inside of your cheeks or lips. Your orthodontist can show you ways to apply dental wax to soften these spots to help you cope.
Getting braces isn’t all smiles and roses, but the transformative results will be well worth it! If you’re concerned, talk to your orthodontist and be open and honest with your questions. Though there may be some brief discomfort, you’ll be working toward a lifetime of improved oral health and confidence. Once it’s over, you’ll be very glad you stuck with it.
About the Author
Dr. Payam Ishani is a passionate orthodontist who loves seeing his patients smile at their results. He graduated from the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry, and has been a dedicated learner ever since. Every year he takes on continuing education and advanced training to better serve his patients. Call (405) 254-5094 to schedule an orthodontic consultation at Casady Square Orthodontics or visit the website to discover other services they offer.