Welcome to the exciting journey of achieving a beautiful, straight smile with Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics! Getting braces is a significant step, and it’s natural to have questions about what to expect in the first week. Here are ten things you need to know to help you navigate this initial phase with confidence.
1. Soreness and Discomfort
In the first few days after getting braces, you might experience some soreness and discomfort in your teeth and gums. This is completely normal and is a result of the gentle pressure being applied to move your teeth. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help alleviate the discomfort. We are happy to give you personalized advice the day of your appointment.
2. Adjusting to New Sensations
Braces can feel strange at first. You might notice a difference in how your mouth feels, especially when you talk or chew. Give yourself some time to adjust to these new sensations. Before you know it, having braces will feel completely normal.
3. Diet Modifications
Certain foods can damage your braces or cause discomfort. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods to prevent any damage to your braces. You will be surprised, you can eat more things than you may believe!
4. Increased Saliva Production
Your mouth may produce more saliva than usual as it adjusts to the presence of braces. This is a temporary response and will subside as your mouth gets used to the braces.
5. Difficulty in Speaking
You might find it a bit challenging to speak clearly initially. This is because your mouth is adjusting to the new braces. Practice speaking, and soon, your speech will return to normal.Do you ever sing or read out loud? The more you talk the easier it will be to adjust.
6. Oral Hygiene Routine
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial when you have braces. Brush after every meal, and use interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean between your braces. Keeping your teeth and braces clean will help prevent cavities and gum disease.
7. Orthodontic Wax
Brackets and wires can sometimes irritate the inside of your cheeks and lips. Orthodontic wax is a great solution to protect your mouth from these irritations. Apply a small amount of wax to the areas causing discomfort.
8. Avoiding Certain Habits
Habits like nail-biting, chewing on pens, or eating ice can damage your braces. Be mindful of these habits and try to avoid them to keep your braces in good condition.
9. Regular Appointments
Attending regular orthodontic appointments is essential for the success of your treatment. These visits allow your orthodontist to make necessary adjustments and ensure that your teeth are moving as planned.
10. Positive Mindset
Finally, maintaining a positive mindset is important. Remember that any initial discomfort or inconvenience is temporary, and the result will be a beautiful, healthy smile. Stay patient and focused on your goal. Also, you will be amazed at how fast your teeth straighten. It is amazing to watch your smile transform!
Conclusion
The first week with braces can be an adjustment, but by following these tips, you’ll navigate it smoothly. At Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics, we’re here to support you every step of the way. There is no such thing as a dumb question and our doctors want you to have the best experience possible. Never hesitate to ask us a question that is on your mind. Here’s to your journey towards a perfect smile!