Now that your braces are fitted, you are on the way to a more confident, radiant smile. Getting your teeth adjusted is a big step which takes time and a level of commitment. At this point, you will have come very far and have probably learned more about your teeth than you ever thought possible. Over the course of a number of appointments, we will have measured your mouth, given you x-rays, and discussed your treatment at some length. Some of the things we will have discussed are the steps involved, caring for your new orthodontic appliances, the adjustment phase of the treatment, follow-ups, and a number of other important aspects of getting braces. For most people, this wealth of information, can be slightly overwhelming and can leave you with questions after you are done with your fitting appointment. To help with this, we will give you a packet of information for you to read. Additionally, we are always available to answer a question over the phone or during one of your routine follow-up visits.
Adjusting to new braces does take a few days. This initial period can be the most uncomfortable, but the discomfort will fade quickly. During the first few days, your mouth will need to get used to the idea of a foreign substance in the mouth that takes up more space than just your teeth. You could also have some level of pain, which is easily controlled by over the counter medication. This adjustment typically lasts no more than a day or two, and while nobody ever fully gets used to braces, pretty soon your mouth will accept the presence of the braces and they will not bother you at all.
In order to feel more comfortable we recommend that you use over the counter Tylenol to control the pain, and advise staying away from Ibuprofen. Tylenol contains acetaminophen, usually recommended for pregnant women and children because it is a safer pain reliever. On the other hand, Ibuprofen can slow down the movement of the teeth, which interferes with the treatment, and hence we advise against taking it while wearing braces. Ibuprofen makes up the major ingredient in medications like Advil and Motrin so avoid these as well. You can also feel better by using a cool compress to help ease any swelling.
Immediately after having braces placed you should eat soft foods in order to avoid irritation. After that, there are some dietary restrictions that come with braces. This is necessary because braces can become damaged or lose if you eat very hard foods or have to chomp down with a great deal of pressure. Ice cubes, popcorn, and sticky candy can all cause this damage, and you will need to avoid these until your treatment is complete. Part of your reading material will include a complete list of foods that you need to avoid, and we always recommend calling us to confirm if you are uncertain about a certain type of food.
