Getting braces is an exciting time for our patients! However, we know you may feel a little nervous. What can you expect? How can you prepare for the changes you’ll experience? Our orthodontists here at Exeter Orthodontics are here to answer your questions and help you prepare for braces!
Make Sure Your Smile Is Clean
Cleaning your teeth is one of the most important ways to prepare for braces. Brushing and flossing your teeth before your appointment makes it easier for our team to affix your braces and also keeps bacteria and plaque from becoming trapped beneath your wires or brackets.
Remember: proper oral care is vital before, during, and after your braces treatment. The chance of cavities increases while you’re wearing braces because bacteria and plaque are harder to reach. Building healthy oral hygiene habits early on will keep your smile bright long after your braces come off!
Stock Up on Care Items
After your treatment, your teeth may feel sore, sensitive, or tender. You may also feel your wires poking or prodding your cheeks. There are a few things you can stock up on to prepare for braces and the minor soreness that follows:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol
- Orthodontic wax to cover the sharp edges of your braces and prevent irritation
- Ice packs to help prevent inflammation
- Picks, threaders, or water flossers to floss between your teeth and catch hard-to-reach bacteria
The discomfort you feel won’t last forever! Within a week or two, you’ll start feeling back to normal.
Hit the Grocery Store
Your diet is going to change once you get braces. You won’t be able to eat hard, sticky, or crunchy foods. However, in the days following your initial placement, your teeth will feel extra sensitive. Prepare by stocking your fridge before your appointment so that you don’t have the leave the house!
When patients get their braces on, they typically enjoy foods like:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Fruit smoothies
- Pudding
- Vegetable soup
- Applesauce
- Jell-O
Stay Calm!
It’s normal to feel nervous before your appointment! However, our team is here to help you stay calm, comfortable, and relaxed. We’ll walk you through the process and help you get a feel for what you can expect. Remember: the benefits of braces are endless! From a straighter smile to healthier teeth, braces will change your life! With millions of teens and adults wearing braces, you’re not alone!
Prepare for Braces with Exeter Orthodontics
Here at Exeter Orthodontics, we have six convenient locations and a team of experienced orthodontists ready to help you prepare for your treatment, answer your questions, and put your anxiety at ease.
To learn more about braces from Exeter Orthodontics, request a free consultation. We’re in Allentown, Exton, Reading, Springfield, Harrisburg, and Lancaster.