Preparing for Braces

While many people dread the idea of getting braces, the reality is, braces offer much to be excited about. Think about the fact that braces promise not just a more attractive smile, but also ensure your bite is healthy and your teeth are aligned so you’re less prone to decay.

With that in mind, it’s important that you prepare for braces before you embark on this exciting adventure with Dr. Faleye and her team at The Orthodontic Clinic.

Schedule Your First Appointment

Chances are you already know you need braces, but there are many situations that require orthodontic care that people might not realize. Schedule an appointment with our office for a thorough exam and x-rays so that we can determine the best course of action for your specific needs.

Have Realistic Expectations

Talk with the doctor about what you can expect as far as long-term and short-term results. You don’t want to walk out of your appointment thinking that you’ll have a perfect smile in just a few months. The reality is that most orthodontic treatment takes at least a year (with Invisalign) or more (with traditional braces). You’ll see results over time and the final result after you finish treatment.

Understand How to Care for Braces

Living with braces will require you to adjust some of your oral hygiene routines. If you’re getting Invisalign, then you’ll need to know how to keep your trays clean. Similarly, if you’re getting traditional brackets, you’ll want to understand how to clean beneath them to avoid staining your teeth and which tools are the right ones for you. This is something we can help walk you through.

Prepare for Some Discomfort

Everyone’s experience is different, but some patients report experiencing minor discomfort after getting traditional bracket braces. Talk with Dr. Faleye about how to manage this discomfort. Typically over the counter pain medications will work just fine and you won’t need anything stronger.

Gather a List of Foods

In the first few days of having braces, you’ll want to have a supply of soft foods to enjoy while your mouth adjusts to having braces. You’ll also want to know which foods to eat in the long run and which ones to avoid. Generally, we advise patients to stay away from anything that is sticky or super hard, as these can damage your teeth and orthodontic treatment.

If you’re in need of orthodontic treatment or have questions about it, contact our team at The Orthodontic Clinic!