Getting started on any new journey is easier when you’re well prepared, and that includes getting set for your new braces. While you may not have them yet, being ready for life with your orthodontic equipment can help make the transition to braces wearer a lot more comfortable.
With orthodontics, the first week is often the hardest, and running back and forth to the store is likely the last thing you’ll want to be doing. In that spirit, here’s a helpful guide to making the first week with your new braces easier, so you can stay comfortable and focus on your improving smile!
Go Shopping
The first thing you should do before you get your new braces on is to make sure you have all the supplies you need to make wearing them more comfortable. This includes hygiene tools, OTC pain relievers, and easy to chew foods.
With braces, you can still brush and floss your teeth as usual, but it may be difficult to remove food from your wires and brackets by brushing and flossing alone. Thus, consider purchasing:
- A water flosser to help rinse away food and debris from your brackets
- Floss threaders, to help get your dental floss through your teeth and around your wires
- Dental wax for cushioning wires or brackets that irritate your cheeks
- OTC pain relievers for any soreness
For many patients, chewing during the first week with new braces is very uncomfortable. Thus, be sure to stock your fridge with soothing foods that still provide plenty of nourishment. Some great ideas include:
- Soft bread, cakes, or pancakes
- Soft cheese, yogurt, ice cream, or sorbet
- Quinoa, rice, couscous, barley
- Pasta
- Stewed or tender meats
- Steamed vegetables
- Peanut butter
- Soup or stews
- Applesauce
- Bananas
- Soft fish or fish sticks
- Hummus
- Cold beverages, milkshakes, and smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
- Tuna salad, egg salad, or chicken salad
- Pudding
- Tofu
- Guacamole
Practice Your Hygiene
Though your mouth may be sore, it is still very important that you keep your teeth and gums clean during the first week with your braces. This is also a crucial time for learning how to care for your smile with the addition of orthodontic equipment. The great news is that once you master it, you’ll be good to go, but don’t stress out with the learning curve. Just do your best, and soon you’ll be cleaning your mouth like a pro!
Anticipate Changes
Finally, it’s important to understand that you will likely experience some soreness during the first week of treatment. Be aware of any abnormal changes during that time. If you feel any wires poking your cheek, call your orthodontist. Though your orthodontic team does their best to ensure that there are no excess parts sticking out before you head home, as your teeth shift your wires will move, too.
Remember, the first week of braces is often the most difficult, but with proper preparation, you can make it much easier and a lot more comfortable. If you are experiencing any abnormal discomfort including poking wires, please call your orthodontist for guidance.
About Our Practice
At Serenity Orthodontics, we want to make your transition to braces wearer as easy and peaceful as possible. That’s why we’re proud to help provide education that will make wearing and caring for your new equipment a breeze. If you have any questions or concerns about how to make your initial days with braces more comfortable, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
To schedule an appointment for braces, please visit our website or call us today at 470-589-4475