Braces are a highly effective orthodontic treatment. They can address a wide variety of dental issues and offer cosmetic and health benefits. Not only do braces straighten your teeth, but they can also help reduce your risk for oral health issues. Below you will find the top tips for your first week of braces.

Top Tips for Your First Week of Braces

One of the best ways you can get through your first week of braces smoothly is by planning in advance. Setting yourself up for success can be beneficial when it comes to your brace’s treatment. Consider the following tips for your first week of braces.

Leave the Office Prepared:

After your braces have been applied, be sure to ask any last questions before you leave. Your dentist in Yucaipa will provide instructions for how to care for your oral health and braces during treatment. Additionally, check your wire ends and double-check your supplies. Use your finger and tongue to make sure there is nothing that is extending out or poking your mouth. This can be easily addressed by your dentist before you leave. Additionally, be sure you have enough dental wax, cleaning aids, elastic bands, and any other materials you need. Lastly, set up your next appointment so you don’t forget or push it back.

Consider Meal Planning:

After you get your braces your mouth will be sore. This is completely normal and should subside within a week or two. In the meantime, you’ll want to eat very soft foods for the first few days. Stick to foods such as smoothies, soups, soft veggies and fruits, pudding, and yogurt. This can take a lot of pressure off of your mouth and help you ease into braces in San Bernardino. Once you notice the pain reducing, consider implementing other foods. Try and cut harder foods into bite-sized pieces to make the transition even easier. Creating a meal plan in advance and prepping those foods can be really helpful as you get used to your new braces.

Care for Your Sores:

You will likely get a few sores in your mouth as you transition into wearing braces. The brackets that come with traditional braces are designed to be gentle on your mouth. However, they can rub and irritate some of the soft skin on the side of your mouth. This is normal and usually subsides within the first few weeks. However, it can be difficult to adjust without help during that time. Use wax to cover the portions that are impacting your mouth to ease any discomfort.

Salt Water Rinses:

Some patients experience more irritation than others. Because you really won’t know until you get braces, it’s important to be prepared. While the initial symptoms are temporary, relief can be helpful as you get used to your braces. Use a saltwater rinse five to six times a day for 30 seconds to help relieve any pain and help your sores heal faster. Mix one-half of a teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water for optimal results.

Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine:

Getting braces comes with a lot of change when it comes to your eating habits and speech. Avoid skipping out on your oral care routine as that can impact your oral health and your treatment timeline. This includes brushing after every meal and flossing at least once a day. Brushing is important no matter what, but it’s especially crucial when you have braces. There are more spaces unwanted bacteria and leftover food can get stuck in so it’s important to brush your teeth after you eat due to the potential negative effects.