how to prepare for getting braces
TRANSCRIPT
Getting braces can mean some major adjustments. The first few days after your orthodontist puts them on, they can cause some discomfort. You can prepare mentally and physically by learning about what will happen during your first appointment, stocking up on soft foods and purchasing the supplies that will help you best take care of your braces.
Prepare on the Day You Get Braces
Part 1 - Preparing Emotionally
Focus on the benefits of getting braces
Choose the type of braces you will get
Choose the color of your braces
Brace yourself for slight discomfort
Eat hard, crunchy, or chewy foods, and enhance your life
Bring a book, music, or some other distraction to the orthodontist’s office
Focus on the Benefits of Getting Braces
This holds especially true if the thought of getting braces makes you feel afraid, nervous, or reluctant. Braces will help to straighten your teeth and improve your smile and bite. No matter what, this will raise your confidence and enhance your life. Also remember that lots of people have or have had braces—you’re not alone.
Choose the Type of Braces You Will Get
Although metal braces are probably the most traditional & widespread type of braces, there are other options. Your orthodontist may offer clear braces, lingual braces, gold braces, Invisalign or Damon braces.
Choose the Color of Your Braces
If you are getting metal braces, you may get to choose the color of your brackets and/or rubber bands. This can be fun, and a way to personalize your braces. You can change the color of your ties at every appointment.
Brace Yourself for Slight Discomfort
The process of getting metal braces is fairly quick. The orthodontist will glue small brackets to your teeth, and then insert wires to connect the brackets. You might feel a little pressure on your teeth as these parts are put on, and your mouth might feel a little sore for a few days, but this should go away quickly.
In the days BEFORE you get your braces, eat all the hard and chewy foods you want
In the first few days after your braces are put on, you will want to eat only soft foods. During the time that you have to wear braces, you will have to avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, and sugary foods and drinks. Enjoy some of these before getting your braces, if you want, since it might be a while before you can have them again.
Bring a Book, Music, or Some Other Distraction to the Orthodontist’s Office
The first appointment to get your braces on may take a little while. Having something to keep you interested and busy while you wait will put your mind at ease, and help to pass the time.
Part 2 - Getting the Supplies You’ll Need
Stock up on soft foods Make sure you have a
supply of wax Have pain reliever ready
Stock up on Soft Foods
Because of the pressure on your teeth and the adjustment time needed, you will want to stick to soft foods for the first few days after getting braces. Try things like smoothies, mashed potatoes, ice cream, yogurt, etc.
Make Sure You Have a Supply of Wax
The wax designed for braces can coat the wires so that they don’t irritate your mouth. You can ask your orthodontist for some, but you might also want to get extra for the first few days and afterwards
Have Pain Reliever Ready
An over-the-counter pain reliever can ease any discomfort your braces cause in the first few days. Make sure you have a supply before the braces are put on, just in case you need it. Tylenol is recommended over Advil (ibuprofen).
Part 3 - Gathering Knowledge Ask your orthodontist any
questions you have about getting braces
Know exactly how the braces will be applied
Understand how to get through the first few days with braces
Make yourself comfortable Prepare for life with braces Take good care of your
braces
Ask Your Orthodontist Any Questions You Have About Getting Braces
You will see your orthodontist for a consultation before getting braces, so make sure to ask any questions you might have. Your orthodontist and the assistants in the office will explain all the procedures involved in putting on your braces. Be sure to ask if you have any additional questions.
Know Exactly How the Braces Will Be Applied
Having a sense of what is going to happen as the braces are put on can ease your mind. This will all be explained to you at your intial appointment.
Understand How to Get Through the First Few Days With Braces
At first, you will be very conscious of the fact that you are wearing braces. You will experience some soreness and slight discomfort over the first few days as your teeth begin to move and you start adjusting to life with braces. But, as time goes on, you will get more used to it and hardly even know they are there!
Make Yourself Comfortable
Since your braces might make your mouth sore at first, you will probably want to take it easy for awhile. Aside from taking pain relievers to avoid soreness, you might want to avoid talking too much and other activities that might cause discomfort for the first few days.
Prepare for Life With Braces
Having braces requires you to change some of your lifestyle habits. . Knowing about this ahead of time will make the whole process easier. For example, you will need to spend more time and attention brushing and flossing your teeth, avoid certain hard or sticky foods and take precaution during contact physical activities.
Take Good Care of Your Braces
Just as you would normally need to take care of your teeth, you will have to regularly brush and rinse your teeth and braces. Ask your orthodontist for any special tips for keeping your braces and teeth clean.
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