It’s always a very momentous occasion when you begin braces treatment, because this is the very first step toward obtaining a beautiful smile that’ll last the rest of your life.
We’ve teamed up with the braces dublin ohio experts at JK Orthodontics to develop this list of helpful tips to get braces patients through their first week of treatment, which is known for being a little daunting as people just get used to their new appliances.
So if you or your child is about to get braces, keep the following tips in mind for that first week of treatment!
Take Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers Prior To The Bonding Appointment
Although braces patients won’t experience any kind of severe pain during their initial week of treatment, it’s normal for their teeth to feel a bit achy and tender right after the bonding appointment. It’s also possible to experience slight tenderness shortly after adjustment appointments as well.
This initial discomfort will only last a few days, but it’s still a good idea to consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce the achiness and likelihood of experiencing headaches. By taking these pain relievers right before the bonding appointment, it’ll be kicked in during those first few hours with braces.
Stick With Cold Drinks & Soft Foods
Soft foods and cold drinks are typically the best thing for braces patients to eat during the first few days of treatment, and this is because these products are usually easy on tender teeth. Cold drinks will also provide some added numbing benefits when a patient’s mouth isn’t feeling too great.
Some great options to keep in mind include:
- Smoothies
- Soup
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
- Bananas
- Milkshakes
- Protein shakes
- Eggs
Keep Braces Wax Handy
Braces wax, often referred to as orthodontic relief wax, can help braces patients out a ton while they’re just beginning to get used to their new appliance.
Braces hardware can sometimes irritate a patient’s cheeks, tongue and lips at first, and although your mouth will toughen up with time, it’s still a good idea to be prepared with braces wax during those first few days.
Saltwater Rinses
Saltwater rinses can do wonders for a braces patient during the first week of treatment, and it’s actually a lot easier to make these rinses than most people would probably assume.
All you’ll need to do is dissolve about ½ teaspoon of salt in warm water, and then gargle this solution. Be sure to let the solution sit on any sores or irritated areas in your mouth, and do these rinses a few times each day until the discomfort subsides.
Be Vigilant With Oral Hygiene
It’s normal for braces brackets and wires to trap plaque and food particles, and new braces patients usually aren’t initially ready for the amount of flossing and brushing that they’ll inevitably need to do on a daily basis.
This means that braces patients need to brush their teeth more frequently than before their treatment began, which usually equates to 3-4 times per day (or after every meal and snack). It’s also important to note that hard-bristled toothbrushes can sometimes be rough on tender gums and teeth.
This is why new braces patients should consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and interdental brushes or water flossers for their flossing routine.
Athletes Must Wear a Mouthguard
Braces patients that play sports or do other physical activities should always wear a mouthguard. There’s no need to risk any issues associated with knocks to the mouth and face while wearing braces, because this could potentially lead to wires and brackets getting damage—and even requiring an emergency appointment.
By simply wearing a mouthguard, braces patients can play contact sports with the peace of mind that they need to succeed on the field or court!
Create a To-Go Kit & Start Bringing It Around With You
One of the best things that braces patients can do is fill up a toiletry bag with braces supplies, and then bring this to-go kit with them to school, work, or other daily outings. By having this type of kit on you, you’ll be prepared for taking care of your braces and remaining comfortable throughout each day.
Some of the things to consider putting in this type of orthodontic to-go kit include:
- Interdental brushes
- Travel toothbrush
- Orthodontic wax
- Orthodontic flossers/floss threaders
- A small mirror
Contact JK Orthodontics To Learn More About Getting Braces In Dublin Ohio!
There’s a lot that braces patients need to keep in mind while they’re just getting used to treatment, and the first week is usually the toughest. The good news is that things will normalize rather quickly, and you’ll likely not even feel your braces in your mouth after just a handful of days.
If you’re interested in getting braces for yourself or your child in Dublin Ohio, get in touch with the industry specialists at JK Orthodontics via the hyperlink at the top of this page!
