If you’re getting braces for the first time, it’s normal to have questions. Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, starting orthodontic treatment can feel like a big change. Understanding what happens during your first days and weeks with braces can help make the experience less stressful and more manageable.
Your First Appointment with Braces
The appointment when your braces are placed is usually not painful, but it can take some time. Your orthodontist will clean and dry your teeth. Then, small brackets are bonded to each tooth. These brackets are connected with a wire and held in place with elastic bands. You’ll be able to choose the color of these bands at each visit.
The process usually takes about one to two hours. You won’t feel much discomfort during the procedure itself. However, as the braces begin to apply pressure to your teeth, you’ll start to notice a change in how your mouth feels.
What You’ll Feel in the First Few Days
It’s common to feel soreness or mild pain during the first three to five days after getting braces. Your teeth are beginning to move, which puts stress on the bones and tissues around them. This discomfort may be especially noticeable when biting or chewing. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relievers can help during this adjustment period.
You may also notice some irritation on the inside of your cheeks or lips as they get used to the metal brackets. Orthodontic wax can be applied to the brackets to ease the rubbing and protect your soft tissues.
Eating After Getting Braces
You’ll need to change the way you eat, especially during the first week. Stick to soft foods that require little to no chewing. Mashed potatoes, pasta, soup, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and smoothies are good choices. Avoid crunchy or sticky foods that could damage your braces or cause pain.
Once your mouth adjusts, you’ll be able to reintroduce more foods, but some items should always be avoided. Hard candies, gum, popcorn, and foods that require biting into—like apples or corn on the cob—can all harm your braces and prolong your treatment.
Speech and Appearance Changes
Braces can affect how you speak at first. You might develop a slight lisp or find some words more difficult to pronounce. Most people adjust within a few days. Reading out loud or practicing conversations can help speed up the process.
As for how they look, braces will be noticeable, especially if you’ve chosen traditional metal ones. Some people feel self-conscious at first, but this usually fades as you become used to them. If appearance is a concern, there are other options like ceramic braces or clear aligners, which are less visible.
Daily Care and Cleaning Routine
Oral hygiene becomes more important than ever when you have braces. Brackets and wires create more places where food and plaque can collect. You’ll need to brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Many orthodontists also recommend a proxy brush or interdental brush to clean between the wires and brackets.
Flossing takes more time, but it’s essential. Using a floss threader or special orthodontic floss can make it easier. Water flossers are also a helpful tool for cleaning around your braces. Skipping these steps can lead to cavities, gum disease, or stains once your braces are removed.
Follow-Up Visits and Adjustments
After getting your braces, you’ll return to the orthodontist every four to eight weeks for adjustments. These visits are important because your orthodontist will tighten the wires, replace rubber bands, and monitor your progress. Some appointments may cause mild soreness afterward, but this usually doesn’t last long.
During these visits, your orthodontist can also answer questions and give advice on any issues you’re having. It’s a good time to mention anything unusual, like broken brackets, poking wires, or ongoing discomfort.
Dealing with Emergencies
While serious emergencies are rare, minor issues can happen. A loose bracket, broken wire, or sore spot in your mouth can usually be handled at home or with a quick visit to your orthodontist. Keep orthodontic wax, a small mirror, and a pair of tweezers in your bathroom or school locker. These tools can help manage small problems until your next appointment.
If something feels wrong or painful, don’t wait. Call your orthodontist’s office and ask what you should do. It’s better to be safe and prevent further damage.
Emotional Adjustment and Patience
Wearing braces is a big change, especially during the first month. It’s normal to feel frustrated or overwhelmed. Eating differently, brushing more often, and dealing with mild pain can all feel like a lot. But most people find that after a few weeks, braces become just another part of daily life.
Remember that this process has a purpose. Every small adjustment is moving your teeth into a healthier, more functional position. The time and effort are worth it for a smile that lasts a lifetime.
Tips to Make the Process Easier
- Keep a small braces care kit with you that includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, wax, and pain relief.
- Use salt water rinses to ease mouth sores or tenderness.
- Stick to your scheduled visits to avoid delays in treatment.
- Avoid chewing on pens, ice, or your fingernails.
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions carefully, including wearing rubber bands or other devices.
Conclusion
Getting braces is the beginning of a journey toward better dental health and a straighter smile. The first days might feel strange, and the weeks ahead will require some changes. But with good habits and the right information, you’ll adjust faster than you think.
Once your braces come off, you’ll not only see the results—you’ll feel them in your confidence, your bite, and your ability to smile without hesitation.
If you’re in Mississippi and considering orthodontic care, or if you’ve just started treatment, a local orthodontist can guide you through every step. With patience and support, your new smile is well within reach.