Braces are placed by an orthodontist and the process generally takes around two hours to complete.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment, you might be wondering what the process involves. When you come in to have your braces put on, you can expect to be at your orthodontist’s office for an hour or two, depending on the type of braces you choose and the overall condition of your teeth. Read on to find out more about what to expect when you have your braces put on for the first time…
What does the process involve?
Before your braces are placed, your orthodontist will clean and dry your teeth. When your teeth have been thoroughly prepared, a bracket will be glued to the middle of each tooth. A special blue light is used to activate and set the glue, and ensures that the brackets are securely attached.
Once the brackets are in place, your orthodontist will place metal bands around your molars. These bands help to anchor the braces. Next, the arch wire is attached to the brackets with the use of rubber bands, which are wrapped around each bracket. At this point, you will have the choice of clear rubber bands, or a bright colour, depending on your preference.
Is the process painful?
Although you shouldn’t feel any pain when you have your braces put on, it is possible that you will feel some pressure when your orthodontist adjusts the bands around your teeth.
You may also experience come discomfort and tenderness for some time after you have had your braces put on. It can take some time to adjust to the feeling of your braces applying pressure to your teeth and jaw, and your orthodontist may recommend an over-the-counter medication to help alleviate any discomfort that you feel.
How do new braces feel?
As you adjust to your new braces, it is best to eat soft foods that are easy to chew. This will minimise any potential pain caused by chewing. Some good options include soft fruits and vegetables, yoghurt, soup and oat porridge.
You may experience some soreness in your mouth after you have had your braces put on — this issue is sometimes caused by the brackets and wires rubbing against the inside of the cheeks. Your orthodontist will let you know how to minimise this pain, and may provide you with a special wax to cover the parts of your braces that are irritating the soft tissues in your mouth.
In most cases, patients adjust to their new braces within a month or so and don’t generally feel any pain beyond this time.
How should you take care of braces?
Once you have had your braces put on, it is important that you commit to a good oral hygiene routine. Your orthodontist will let you know how to brush and floss your teeth with your new braces to ensure that you keep stains and tooth decay at bay. Besides regular brushing and flossing, it’s also a good idea to rinse your mouth with water after eating, particularly if you’ve had a sweet snack or drink.
How can we help?
At Smart Smile Orthodontics, we offer a number of types of braces for patients who would like to resolve an orthodontic issue and achieve a straighter, healthier smile. To find out more about braces at Smart Smile Orthodontics, please have a look here.
If you would like to make an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
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