What Braces Are Like at First

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By Suter Orthodontics

Getting braces can feel like an intimidating step to take, but it might help to know that you’re not alone in your anxiety. Lots of people feel nervous about getting braces so it’s totally normal. That also means that the challenges you may face with braces are not uncommon, lots of people are in the same boat! To help ease your nerves and make things go more smoothly, let’s discuss what braces are like at first and how to overcome some of the challenges that come with them.

Eating and Drinking

Your first week with braces will likely be the most challenging, they are a lot to get used to! Stocking up on foods that don’t require a lot of chewing like yogurts, soups, puddings, smoothies and soft pastas can help to make the transition easier while your mouth adjusts.

Once you’re adjusted to braces, it’ll feel more comfortable to eat and drink what you normally do, but it’s still a good idea to steer clear of very sticky or crunchy foods, extra chewy foods or foods you need to bite into, like corn on the cob, to protect your braces from damage.

Talking with Braces

Talking with braces at the beginning can feel like you’re trying to talk with, well, a mouthful of metal wires and brackets! The easiest way to get used to what braces are like at first is to take it easy. Don’t expect too much from yourself for the first week or two. Take a well-deserved rest and marathon that TV show you’ve been wanting to catch up on or that book your favorite book list recommended. Soon, braces will feel normal, but for now there’s no rush to adjust to something when it simply takes a bit of time for your body to get used to it.

Dealing with Discomfort

What braces are like at first can make you wonder about being stuck with them for months, but they will get more comfortable in just a short time! In the meantime, if you’re experiencing any discomfort, don’t hesitate to call your orthodontist and ask questions. Your orthodontist has probably worked with lots of people experiencing exactly what you’re feeling and most likely has several tips and solutions on hand to make things easier and more comfortable for you. They may recommend dental wax to cover any brackets causing irritation or a mild over the counter numbing gel or pain reliever to help those first few days go a bit easier.

Your New Smile!

All the anxiety about what braces are like at first can cloud the thought of what it will be like to enjoy your new smile at the end of your orthodontic treatment journey. It will all feel worth it, though, so hang in there! You’re doing great, you got this!

Call our Colorado Springs Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.