What to Do During the First Day of Braces

The first day of braces can be daunting. After all, you’re making a significant change to your mouth, and it feels like there are a lot of things to remember. That’s why we’ve written the following guide on what to do during the first day of braces and tips for oral care. With our advice, you can rest assured that you and your braces will get off to a great start!

Getting braces is an exciting time – you’re taking the steps toward achieving the smile of your dreams! Even though braces are relatively standard nowadays, getting them on for the first time can still feel intimidating. After all, while braces have come a long way in terms of comfort and convenience, the braces-wearing process still requires some getting used to. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on what to do during the first day of braces and tips for oral care. With our advice, you can rest assured that you and your braces will get off to a great start!

What to Do During the First Day of Braces

The first step is ensuring you understand all the instructions provided by your orthodontist. Don’t forget to ask any questions if there’s something that isn’t clear – you must understand everything about looking after your braces so that they can work their magic as efficiently as possible! Once everything has been explained, you’re ready to start braces-wearing.

• Food & Eating Habits

One of the essential things to remember is what you’re eating and your eating habits. Avoid hard and chewy foods, as these can damage braces or dislodge them from your teeth. Stick to softer foods such as mashed potatoes and soup for a few days until your mouth has adjusted to the braces. You should also cut food into small pieces, so it’s easier to chew with braces.

• Oral Hygiene & Care

Keeping your braces clean is incredibly important – this is an orthodontic device that will be in your mouth for some time! Make sure to brush your braces thoroughly twice daily, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and braces-friendly toothpaste. Flossing is also essential to ensure that food doesn’t get stuck in between the braces. Make sure to floss at least once a day, preferably after eating.

• Pain & Discomfort

It’s normal to feel pain or discomfort after getting braces on for the first time – however, it shouldn’t be too severe. Over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen can help control pain or discomfort while your mouth gets used to braces. If you’re feeling any intense pain, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible so that they can provide advice or solutions.

• Cheek & Lip Sores

It’s common to experience lip or cheek sores after getting braces on because the braces rub against these areas and can take some time to get used to. To help manage these, try using a dental wax over the braces, providing a cushioning barrier between the braces and your cheeks/lips. Additionally, you can apply an oral gel such as Orabase onto any sores that may have formed.

• Post-Braces Check-ups

Make sure to keep in touch with your orthodontist for regular checkups, even if you don’t think anything is wrong with your braces. This way, they can ensure that everything is in order and that your braces are working as efficiently as possible.

Getting braces is exciting, but it can also feel a bit daunting if you need help with what to do on the first day or how to take care of them properly. With our advice, you should be able to start braces-wearing without worrying about any difficulties! Just remember to follow up with your orthodontist for regular checkups and maintain good oral hygiene habits – this way, you’ll have braces that work just like they should.

FAQs

Q: Is it normal to experience pain after getting braces?

A: It’s normal to feel discomfort after getting braces on; however, it shouldn’t be too severe. If you’re feeling intense pain, contact your orthodontist immediately so that they can provide advice or solutions.

Q: What foods should I avoid with braces?

A: Avoid hard and chewy foods such as gum and popcorn – these can damage braces or dislodge them from your teeth. Stick to softer foods such as mashed potatoes and soup for a few days until your mouth has adjusted to the braces. 

Q: How often should I brush my braces?

A: Make sure to brush your braces thoroughly two times a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and braces-friendly toothpaste. Flossing is also essential to ensure that food doesn’t get stuck between the braces, so floss at least once daily.