At the Appointment
Initial Consultation:
The orthodontist examines your teeth and may take X-rays, photos, or impressions to create a treatment plan.
Application of Braces:
The process typically takes 1–2 hours.
Teeth are cleaned and dried.
Small brackets are attached to your teeth using a special adhesive.
Wires are threaded through the brackets and secured with elastic bands.
First Few Days
Soreness or Discomfort:
It’s common to feel soreness in your teeth and gums, especially when chewing. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help.
Your lips, cheeks, or tongue might feel irritated by the brackets and wires. Orthodontic wax can reduce discomfort.
Diet Adjustments:
Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage your braces.
Speaking Changes:
You might notice slight changes in how you speak as your mouth adjusts to the braces.
Ongoing Care
Regular Adjustments:
You’ll visit the orthodontist every 4–6 weeks for adjustments, where the wires may be tightened or replaced.
Adjustments may cause brief soreness afterward.
Oral Hygiene:
Braces make it harder to clean your teeth, so brushing and flossing thoroughly is crucial.
Special tools like interdental brushes or floss threaders can help.
Dietary Restrictions:
Continue avoiding foods that are too hard, sticky, or chewy, as they can break the brackets or wires.
Wax for Comfort:
Use orthodontic wax to cover any parts of the braces causing irritation.
Aftercare and Results
Duration:
Treatment usually lasts 1–3 years, depending on your specific case.
Retainers:
Once braces are removed, you’ll likely need to wear a retainer to maintain the results.
Improved Smile:
The process might feel lengthy, but the outcome is a straighter smile and improved bite alignment.