It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed when you’re thinking about getting braces for your teens or yourself. You may have many questions, some concerns, and you may even be worried about whether they are going to hurt or not. There are some things you’ll need to consider before you start your orthodontic treatment with Lyons Orthodontics.
The Initial Process Before Getting Your Braces
The process for braces varies from patient to patient. It also depends on what type of braces you’re looking for. At Lyons Orthodontics, we offer traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners. During your FREE no-obligation consultation, a Lyons Orthodontics orthodontist or team member will have taken 3D x-rays and other images to formulate your treatment plan. Dr. Tim Lyons will go over each step of your treatment plan and answer all your questions and concerns.
Starting Your Orthodontic Treatment
For traditional metal braces, the first step typically is to place bands around your back molars. There may be some pressure at first, but you will not feel any pain. The next step will be to apply an adhesive to your teeth so that the braces brackets can be set in place. Each of the brackets is connected with wires and then secured with elastic bands.
According to our friends at Dental One Care, a dental office in Sterling Heights, MI patients won’t feel any pain during placement. The entire process can take between one and two hours. The entire Lyons Orthodontics team is committed to making your Just Smile journey fun and exciting. We want you to achieve the best results possible!
Discomfort After Placement
You may start to feel a bit of soreness in your teeth and gums after the braces have been placed. The feeling should not be unbearable, but your orthodontist will give you a list of things that you can do to soothe your mouth.
The discomfort should typically last for about a week, during which time you’ll be adjusting to the feel of having braces in your mouth. Once the discomfort passes, you should feel just a little pressure. There’s nothing to worry about! The wires and the rubber bands place pressure upon your teeth to gradually move them. Some of the other discomforts you may feel during the first week or so include:
- Soreness and pressure in teeth and gums
- Soreness or small sores on the inside of lips and cheeks
- Inflammation in the gums
- Soreness or small cuts on your tongue, typically from running your tongue across braces
This type of discomfort can most often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your Folsom orthodontist will be able to offer further advice if they aren’t helping to take the edge off of your pain. Your comfort and happiness are always our top priority. Just remember that a little discomfort means that the treatment is working! Your teeth are transforming into the beautiful and confident smile you’ve always wanted.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
There are certain foods that should be avoided when you have braces. During those first few days and weeks after placement, some specific things can help to bring a bit of soothing comfort to your mouth. These comforting and braces safe foods include the following:
- Soup
- Mashed potatoes
- Macaroni and cheese, or other pasta dishes
- Yogurt and frozen yogurts
- Cool drinks
- Smoothies
- Oatmeal
- Soft fruits that include berries and bananas
Foods to Enjoy with Braces
Some of the food items that you should exclude from your diet going forward include the following.
The discomfort should typically last for about a week, during which time you’ll be adjusting to the feel of having braces in your mouth. Once the discomfort passes, you should feel just a little pressure. There’s nothing to worry about! The wires and the rubber bands place pressure upon your teeth to gradually move them. Some of the other discomforts you may feel during the first week or so include:
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Hard or chewy candies
- Gum
- Fudge, caramels, and toffees
Steering clear from these will help to protect your braces from any damage. Remember we want you to have the best smile experience! Don’t delay the process by breaking your brackets.
The majority of orthodontic patients get used to their braces within a few weeks. There may be some further discomfort periodically when you get your braces adjusted or tightened.
Are you ready to have a beautiful and confident smile? Whether you’re looking for traditional braces or Invisalign in El Dorado Hills, you can find the best treatment and solutions offered at Lyons Orthodontics. Contact us today to start your Just Smile journey!