Bracing for Braces

Getting braces on has become something of a rite of passage for most adolescents. It’s the precursor to a beautiful smile and, if taken care of, healthy teeth. To better prepare for this milestone, here are some things you should know:

The Process
It takes about two hours to have most types of braces put on. Your teeth will be cleaned thoroughly, and then bonding glue will be applied to your teeth. This will help attach the brackets, which is where the arch wire is installed and secured.

The Recovery
Getting braces on is relatively painless, but there will be soreness in your mouth following your procedure, which lasts approximately a week. Your cheeks and tongue will be sore at first from rubbing against the bracket and bands, and your teeth will also feel sore, which will go away as you get  used to your braces over the next couple of days.

The Adjustment
For the first couple of days, it’s a good idea to eat soft foods like soup, yogurt and mashed potatoes as you get used to your new braces. Any discomfort you experience can also be treated with orthodontic wax to avoid mouth sores, as well as over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or Advil. You should be completely used to your new braces after about a month, and as time goes on, you’ll forget you’re even wearing them.

Living With Braces
While it’s always important to keep your teeth clean, this is especially true while you’re wearing braces. It can be difficult, but if you brush your teeth after each snack and meal, you will effectively reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Also be mindful of the foods you consume. Hard foods can dislodge your brackets and damage your wires, so avoid eating things like nuts, chips or la

Want to learn more about preparing yourself for braces? Contact the Montefiore Department of Dentistry.

For more information about any of the services we offer, please contact Drs. Kraut, Rogoff, Newsome and Kakanantadilok. Our office is located in the Bronx and can be reached at 888-700-6623. We look forward to meeting you.