What to Expect During Your First Week With Braces
Take Control of Your Orthodontic Journey From Day One
Getting braces is an exciting step toward achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. However, the first week can feel overwhelming as you adjust to this new addition to your daily routine. At our Paterson orthodontist office, we want you to feel prepared and confident as you begin your orthodontic journey. Here’s everything you need to know about navigating those crucial first seven days.
The First 24 Hours: What’s Normal
Immediately after your Paterson orthodontist places your braces, your teeth and mouth will feel different. This is completely normal. You might experience a strange sensation as your tongue explores the new brackets and wires. Many patients describe feeling like their teeth are “thick” or that their bite doesn’t quite fit together the way it used to. Rest assured, this sensation will fade as you adjust.
Within the first few hours, you may begin to notice some tooth pain or sensitivity. This discomfort typically starts mild and peaks around day two or three. The tooth pain occurs because your braces are gently applying pressure to move your teeth into their correct positions. Think of it as proof that your treatment is working.
Managing Discomfort and Tooth Pain
While tooth pain during the first week is expected, there are several ways to manage it effectively. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Take these medications as directed on the package, ideally before the pain becomes too intense.
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your mouth can also provide relief. The cold helps numb the area and reduces any swelling. Many patients find that switching between cold compresses and warm salt water rinses (after the first day) offers the most comfort.
Orthodontic wax is your best friend during this adjustment period. Your Paterson orthodontist will provide you with wax to place over any brackets or wires that irritate your cheeks, lips, or tongue. Simply roll a small piece into a ball, dry the bracket, and press the wax firmly over the area. This creates a smooth barrier that prevents rubbing and sores.
Eating During Your First Week
Your diet will need some modifications during the first week with braces. Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing. Excellent options include:
- Yogurt, smoothies, and milkshakes provide nutrition without requiring any chewing.
- Mashed potatoes, soft pasta, scrambled eggs, and oatmeal are filling comfort foods that won’t aggravate your tooth pain.
- Soups, especially creamy varieties, are perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Soft fruits like bananas and applesauce offer healthy vitamins without the crunch.
Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods during this initial period. Items like raw vegetables, chips, nuts, chewy bread, and tough meats should be off-limits until you’ve adjusted. These foods can cause additional discomfort and potentially damage your new braces. As the week progresses and your tooth pain subsides, you can gradually reintroduce more varied foods. Just remember to always cut food into small, manageable pieces and chew carefully with your back teeth.
Cleaning Your Braces
Proper oral hygiene becomes even more important once you have braces. Food particles can easily get trapped in brackets and wires, leading to plaque buildup and potential decay. Your Paterson orthodontist will show you proper brushing techniques, but here’s a refresher for your first week.
Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Angle the brush at 45 degrees to clean above and below the brackets. Spend at least two minutes brushing, paying special attention to the gum line. Use a proxy brush or interdental brush to clean between brackets and under wires where your regular toothbrush can’t reach.
Flossing with braces requires special tools. Floss threaders or orthodontic flossers make it easier to get between teeth. While it may seem time-consuming at first, you’ll develop a rhythm that makes the process quicker. Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection against bacteria.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
While some discomfort is normal, certain situations require professional attention. Contact your orthodontist in Paterson if you experience a poking wire that wax doesn’t fix, a loose or broken bracket, severe tooth pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medication, or signs of infection like excessive swelling or fever.
Most minor issues can wait until regular business hours, but don’t hesitate to reach out if something feels seriously wrong. Your orthodontic team is there to support you throughout this journey.
The first week with braces is just the beginning of your transformation. While it may feel challenging now, you’ll adapt more quickly than you expect. Before you know it, caring for your braces will become second nature, and you’ll be well on your way to the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve.