May 26, 2023
Are you thinking about getting braces? This orthodontic treatment is a tried-and-true way for countless people to attain a beautifully straight smile. However, chances are you have some apprehensions about what it will feel like to have metal brackets and wires in your mouth. Doing some research ahead of time can help you feel more comfortable about the process. We’ve made that easy for you by providing you with some general guidance on what it will feel like to get braces in Winslow.
The First Day You Get Braces
To place braces, your dentist will dry your teeth and apply an adhesive to their front surfaces. From there, a bracket is placed on every tooth and a thin wire is threaded through each of them. Usually, the only discomfort patients feel from this procedure is soreness from keeping their mouth open for a prolonged period of time.
As your teeth start shifting, you may feel a dull ache in your mouth. This sensation should dissipate in a few days, but until then, you can manage it by taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed and eating soft foods.
Your First Week with Braces
You should feel like you’re able to chew heartier foods within the first week of having braces. Be sure to leave extra time in the morning and night for oral hygiene – it may take a bit to master brushing and flossing around braces.
Some patients develop sores on the inside of their cheeks or their lips. While your mouth will adapt, you can alleviate the discomfort in the meantime by covering the troublesome areas of your braces with orthodontic wax. Rinsing with saltwater can also relieve the irritation and keep the trouble spots bacteria-free.
After Each Follow-Up Appointment
Every few weeks, you’ll visit your dentist to have your progress evaluated and your braces adjusted. They may tighten or shift the wires to encourage proper teeth movement. Elastic bands may be secured onto certain brackets to correct bite issues like underbite, overbite, and crossbite.
It’s normal to experience mild soreness for a few days after these appointments due to the pressure that was placed on your teeth. Again, the discomfort will be temporary, but store-bought painkillers can help if need be.
Your Journey to a Straight Smile
Getting braces may seem strange at first, but speaking, eating, and going about your daily life with them will become second nature before you know it. If you still have questions about what to expect when getting braces, be sure to let your dentist know during your consultation.
About the Author
Dr. Richard Baker is a general and cosmetic dentist in Winslow, AZ with more than 40 years of experience in the field. After earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1977, he has pursued extensive post-graduate training, with one of his areas of focus being orthodontics. At Dental Innovations, he offers multiple orthodontic options, including traditional braces, Invisalign, Six Month Smiles, and Fastbraces. To find out which treatment is right for you, visit Dr. Baker’s website or call his office at 928-833-6168.