6 Tips for Getting Adjusted to Your New Dental Braces

Braces are still the most popular choice for straightening teeth. According to the American Dental Association, today’s braces are more comfortable than ever before due to the newer materials that apply a constant, gentle force to move teeth and usually require fewer adjustments. While braces are now improved and better than before, new wearers will still go through an adjustment period.

Getting used to wearing new braces

While there is indeed a learning curve when it comes to wearing new braces for the first time, this initial adjustment period does not take a lot of time to go through. There are even some beneficial tips that you can follow to ensure that the adjustment process is one that is simple and goes smoothly.

6 tips for getting adjusted to your dental braces

Once a new wearer of braces makes it through the initial adjustment period, which only takes a week or two, the rest is easy. The following is a list of six really great tips that can help anyone adjust to wearing their new braces.

#1 – Soft food

Choosing to eat soft foods for the first few days is suggested. The teeth will be sore for about three or four days and eating softer foods will help ease any soreness experienced at this time. Hard foods can be slowly introduced once the soreness begins to go away.

#2 – Rinse the mouth with salt water

Any soreness and/or irritation can be treated by rinsing the mouth with warm salt water. The salt water should be gently swished in the mouth for about 30 seconds and can be done up to six times a day. The saltwater reduces any discomfort and also allows any sores that may be present to heal faster.

#3 – Addressing sore spots

Any sore spots on the lips or cheeks can be addressed by using a special dental wax made specifically for this reason. Some dentists will recommend avoiding using wax as they want the sore areas to toughen up, leaving it up to the patient to use wax or not.

#4 – Take pain medication as needed

Many patients will choose to take over the counter pain medications during the first few days to minimize or eliminate their pain and/or discomfort.

#5 – Stop smoking

Smoking negatively affects the teeth and gums, making it harder for braces to do their job. When one’s oral health is in jeopardy due to smoking, they may need to wear their braces for a longer amount of time.

#6 – A good oral hygiene routine

Cleaning braces after every meal is necessary in order to remove any food debris that may get lodged in the braces. A regular routine of brushing the teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day helps to keep the teeth and gums healthy.

Are you ready for braces?

If you're ready for braces then reach out to our office so that we can help you. Although it can be difficult to adjust to braces at first, it can be done! Give us a call or stop by today.

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