Getting traditional braces is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. However, it’s completely normal for the first week to feel like a very big adjustment period. Your teeth, gums, and cheeks need time to adapt to the brackets and wires. The good news is that once you get through those first several days, most patients find their treatment becomes much easier and more comfortable! Here are a few useful tips to keep in mind.
1. Stick to Easy-to-Eat Foods
During the first week, stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and gentle on sore teeth. Great options include yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies, soup, oatmeal, and boiled pasta. Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods like popcorn, nuts, hard candy, chewing gum, and crusty bread. These foods can increase your discomfort and may even damage your braces.
2. Properly Manage Your Discomfort
Mild soreness and pressure are normal as your teeth begin to shift. Over-the-counter pain relievers, taken as directed, can help. Applying orthodontic wax to brackets that irritate your cheeks or lips can also make a very big difference. Beyond this, cold compresses or simply eating cold foods like ice cream or smoothies may also help to soothe your soreness.
3. Keep Your Mouth Clean & Cared For
Keeping your mouth clean is especially important during this first week. Brush gently after every meal using a soft-bristle toothbrush and take a little extra time cleaning around the brackets and wires. Flossing with floss threaders or a water flosser also helps to remove trapped food from beneath the wires and brackets. You can also rinse with warm salt water to reduce irritation and promote healing if your gums or cheeks feel sore.
4. Don’t Get Easily Discouraged
The first week with braces is often the toughest, especially as you become used to eating, brushing, and navigating daily life with braces, but it doesn’t last long, and keeping a positive mentality can make a big difference. As your mouth gradually adjusts, discomfort fades, eating becomes easier, and caring for your braces becomes very routine. If you ever have questions or concerns, your orthodontist is always there to support you every step of the way toward your new smile!
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Orthodontics has served the needs of patients and families in Randolph and all across New England for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic services for patients of all ages, including tried-and-true metal braces. If you have any questions about the blog or need to get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment for yourself or a family member, call today or reach out online for assistance. Telephone: (781) 218-7342.
Follow Us