Orthodontist In Newark, OH Gives Tips For the First Few Days of Braces

Seeing an orthodontist in Newark, OH to straighten your teeth is one of the best decisions you can make for yourself, and there’s no question that it will pay off for the rest of your life. But many people are curious about what braces feel like and whether they’ll be painful or not – especially at first. While mild discomfort is to be expected in the beginning, you’ll be glad to know that it subsides within a few days as you adjust to your treatment. In this blog, you’ll learn more about the process of having braces put on and how you can minimize any discomfort in the first few days. This information will make the transition into braces smoother and get you off to a great start on your orthodontic journey!

What’s It Like To Have Braces Put On?

Having braces put on simply involves cementing brackets and bands onto the teeth, and you’ll be glad to know that this part of the process isn’t painful at all.

However, the wire band that runs through your brackets will put pressure on the teeth. This sensation will be brand new, so you can expect some sensitivity or discomfort at first, usually lasting between 2-5 days.

It will also feel very strange to have brackets and wires on, but you’ll be amazed at how quickly it starts feeling normal. Interestingly, you’ll become so accustomed to the feeling that it will feel strange again when your braces are removed at the end of your treatment!

What Can You Do In the First Few Days To Minimize Discomfort?

Here are some ways to make the adjustment easier after your braces in Newark, OH are put on:

• For the first 24 hours, choose soft foods such as yogurt, smoothies, soup, seedless bread, applesauce, oatmeal, soft cheese, and pasta.
• Use dental wax from your orthodontist to put over your brackets in any areas where they’re causing irritation. This will create a smooth surface in these spots to protect your soft tissues (like the inside of your cheeks). Over time, these areas will adjust and won’t get irritated as easily. You can also swish with salt water several times a day to soothe everything.
• Finally, using an over-the-counter pain medication as directed is also an effective way to manage any soreness or tenderness you may experience.

And remember, getting orthodontic treatment will benefit you for a lifetime. But you’ll only have to go through the initial adjustment period once!

About the Author

Dr. Timothy G. Wigal has over 10 years of experience as an orthodontist in Newark OH and has treated thousands of people in that time. He strives to make sure his patients have a good experience with their orthodontic treatment from start to finish, and always gives people helpful tips for their first few days in braces. If you have any other questions about what to expect from braces, he can be reached via his website.