Are you planning on getting traditional braces soon? This classic orthodontic option is a highly reliable treatment that thousands of patients have used to achieve happier, healthier, and more beautiful smiles. However, it’s completely natural to feel a bit anxious if you don’t know what to expect! Read on as we go over some of the key points of what it feels like to get braces in Palm Harbor.
Day 1 With Braces
The process of actually having your braces placed on your teeth should be virtually painless, with the exception of some possible soreness in your jaw from keeping your mouth open during your appointment. However, as your teeth begin to slowly shift into place from the pressure exerted by your braces, it’s normal to feel some discomfort. After all, your teeth are changing position in your jaw! Your cheeks, lips, tongue, and other soft tissues may develop some irritation as well as they adjust to the presence of your new wires and brackets.
While somewhat uncomfortable, there are plenty of ways to help get used to your new braces. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your orthodontist to manage your symptoms until they fade away on their own. You can also eat cold, soft foods and drink cold beverages to numb your mouth and reduce swelling. Using an ice pack on the outside of your mouth and rinsing with saltwater can also help ease discomfort and inflammation.
Week 1 With Braces
In the days following getting braces, any swelling or soreness you experience should start to fade gradually. Continue to manage your symptoms with whichever at-home remedies work best for you, but don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist if they don’t appear to be improving. You’ll also begin to practice using orthodontic wax to cover up the sharp parts of your smile and protect your soft tissues. Remember to avoid hard, crunchy foods until at least the second week to minimize discomfort.
Your 1st Orthodontic Checkup
Not long after getting your braces, you’ll visit your orthodontist for your first checkup. During this appointment, they’ll answer any questions you may have and inspect your mouth and braces to ensure everything is going according to plan. During future appointments, they may tighten the wires to keep your teeth moving toward their ideal positions. Adjusting your braces may cause some temporary discomfort, but your symptoms should be easy to manage and gradually get better with time.
Traditional braces are a predictable and reliable way to overcome all manner of alignment issues. If you’d like to learn more about what it’s like to get braces, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist today!
About the Practice
Dr. Alex J. Johnson has over 30 years of experience helping patients achieve the healthy, straightened smiles they deserve. He is proud to help patients of all ages overcome a variety of orthodontic issues with personalized and effective treatments. He and his friendly team will be with you every step of the way through your treatment to ensure the journey towards your new smile is as pleasant and smooth as possible. To learn more about what it’s like to get braces, he can be contacted online or at (727) 786-7550.