Living With Braces
Your Guide to a Comfortable, Confident, Healthy Smile
You’re on your way to a healthier, more beautiful smile with braces, whether they're Lightforce or traditional metal braces, we're here to support you every step of the way, making your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Getting to Know Your New Smile
Congrats! You've just taken the first step towards your dream smile. But we know you might have some questions about what to expect in the coming days and weeks.
Let's get into what you can expect during your time wearing braces.
What to Expect: The First Days
It's normal to experience some mild soreness or discomfort when you first get your braces. Think of it like breaking in a new pair of shoes – it just takes a little time to adjust. Dr. Selnes will give you some pointers on how to manage any discomfort, and over-the-counter pain relievers can also help.
You might also notice a slight lisp for a day or two. Don't worry, this is totally normal and will fade as you get used to your new braces. And if you're feeling a little self-conscious, remember, you're not alone! Many of our patients feel the same way at first. We encourage you to embrace this exciting time and remember the end goal is worth a little discomfort.
Your New Smile is Worth It!
Mastering Your Daily Routine with Braces
You'll quickly find that wearing braces is just a small part of your day. With a few simple adjustments, you'll be back to your normal routine in no time.
Brushing and Flossing Like a Pro
Brushing and flossing might take a bit longer with braces, but it's really important to keep your teeth and gums healthy, especially since braces can introduce more opportunities for trapped food and dental hygiene concerns.
We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, along with special floss threaders or interdental brushes to get between your teeth and brackets. Here's a quick guide to your oral hygiene and brushing with braces:
- Angle your toothbrush at 45º towards your gums.
- Gently brush each tooth and bracket individually, using small circular motions.
- Don't forget to brush the chewing surfaces and the inside of your teeth.
- Use a floss threader to thread floss between your teeth and under the wire.
Eating with Ease
Eating with braces doesn't have to be a challenge. You'll need to avoid sticky, hard, and crunchy foods that can damage your braces, but there are still plenty of delicious options to enjoy! Think soft fruits, sandwiches, cooked veggies, yogurt, smoothies, soft tacos, pasta… the list goes on! Here are a few foods to either avoid or to enjoy in moderation:
Avoid these problem foods:
- Chewy candy (caramel, gummies)
- Sticky foods and chewing gum
- Hard candy
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Ice
Enjoy carefully, in moderation:
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots)
- Crusty bread
- Tough meats
- Pizza crust or bagels
Playing it Safe: Sports and Braces
If you're an athlete, don't let braces sideline you! Just make sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces during any sports or activities. Our team can help you find the perfect custom-fit mouthguard that fits great and protects you better than other options.
Wearing braces is like a mini-marathon, not a sprint.
Regular Check-ups with Dr. Selnes
Due to the advanced technology of LightForce braces, you’ll only need checkups with Dr. Selnes every 8-12 weeks (41% fewer appointments than traditional braces!). During these visits, Dr. Selnes will make adjustments to ensure your treatment is progressing as planned. It's important to keep these appointments, as they're key to achieving your dream smile.
After an adjustment, your teeth may feel a little tight or sore for a few hours. This is perfectly normal and a sign that your braces are working! Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if needed.
The Power of Elastics
Depending on your treatment plan, you might need to wear elastics. These tiny rubber bands help shift your upper and lower teeth back into the correct position. They're a small part of undergoing orthodontic treatment, but play a big role in your smile transformation.
Elastics wear out over time and lose their effectiveness, so it's important to change them after every meal, even if they aren't broken. Always carry extras with you, just in case. If you forget to wear them for a day, just resume your regular schedule the next day. If you have any issues with your elastics, like frequent breakage or a broken hook, give us a call.
Your Questions, Answered
We know you might have some questions or concerns about living with braces. We're here to address those and make sure you feel confident and informed every step of the way.
Common Concerns and Misconceptions
"Is it painful?" "Will I have to give up all my favourite foods?" "Will everyone notice my braces?" These are common questions we hear from patients, and we're here to set the record straight. In most cases, the discomfort is minimal and manageable, and you'll still be able to enjoy many of your favorite foods. As for being noticeable, LightForce braces are designed to blend in with your teeth, making them less noticeable than traditional metal braces.
Ask Dr. Selnes Anything!
Have a question we haven't answered? Don't hesitate to ask! Dr. Selnes and our superbly trained team of orthodontic professionals are always here to help. You can reach us by phone, email, or through social media.
Remember, we're dedicated to providing the finest quality of orthodontic care for adults and children in a warm and professional setting. We want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire orthodontic treatment experience. So, don't be shy – we're in this together!
Let's Create Your Forever Smile!
No referral needed, and no obligation.
Come and discuss the benefits of orthodontics.