Braces basics: adjusting to your smile

As you adjust to your new orthodontic treatment, it’s important to know what to expect in the first few days. From eating comfortably to managing minor discomfort, here’s what you need to know to make the transition as smooth as possible.

The adhesive used for attaching the braces to your teeth cures rapidly. You can eat any time after leaving our office. However, we ask that you be mindful of the suggested list of foods that may be harmful to the braces. Until you become accustomed to eating with your new braces, you may find it beneficial to follow a diet consisting of soft foods.

Initially the braces feel like they stick out. This is completely normal. As you become accustomed to your braces and your tooth alignment improves, this sensation will disappear. Although the brackets our office uses are rounded and smooth, until the cheek tissues have toughened, you may find it helpful to use a small piece of dental wax around the bracket if irritation occurs. You will probably notice some discomfort beginning a few hours after your braces are placed and some teeth may be tender and sensitive to pressure. You may wish to take non-prescription pain remedies commonly taken for other discomforts such as headache.