The decision to wear braces is one that, without a shadow of a doubt, can be one of the most important steps toward having a healthier and more beautiful smile. Having said that, this dental procedure does require some preparation to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for the patient. Before you think about getting braces, there are several things you need to know and do, and we’ll go over those things in this post.
How to Prepare for Braces
After making the decision to acquire braces, the next step is to get yourself psychologically and physically ready for the procedure. The first step in improving your dental health is coming to terms with the fact that it will be a process that takes a long time.
You need to mentally prepare yourself for the upcoming shifts in your lifestyle, and you should start doing so immediately. The process of getting braces involves more than simply the day of the treatment itself; it also involves the weeks, months, and sometimes even years that follow.
Expect that your mouth will feel tender for a few days after the operation has been completed. Because you may have trouble chewing and swallowing during this time, you should stock your kitchen with plenty of foods that are easy to digest. It’s possible to pick something healthy like soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, or a smoothie. In order to speed up the healing process, it is essential to maintain proper hydration.
Also, remember to plan ahead and book visits with your orthodontic specialist. Regular checks are required in order to keep track of progress and identify areas in which improvements are required.
What Is The Process of Getting Braces?
If you are anxious about obtaining braces, gaining an understanding of the process will help soothe your concerns. In most cases, the process will take between one and two hours. After thoroughly washing and drying your teeth, the next step is for your orthodontist to apply an adhesive to your teeth in order to secure the brackets. The brackets are then connected with archwires, which will assist in the gradual shifting of your teeth over time.
Keep in mind that some discomfort or pressure on your teeth after the operation is completely natural and to be expected. This is because the braces have begun to move your teeth into their proper position. However, this soreness is very brief and will typically go away after a few days have passed.
Here are Some Tips Before Getting Braces
Hygiene is one of the most important factors in determining whether or not a dental operation will be effective. Here are some tips before obtaining braces:
- Clean Your Teeth Thoroughly: You should talk to your dentist about setting up an appointment for a deep dental cleaning a few days before you get braces. This assists in the removal of any plaque or tartar buildup that may become problematic for orthodontic appliances.
- Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene: this requires brushing your teeth at least twice per day, flossing at least once per day, and using mouthwash on a daily basis. Before beginning the process of straightening teeth with braces, it is necessary to ensure that your mouth is clean and in good health.
- Apply Chapstick: It is recommended that you apply chapstick or a lip balm prior to the treatment in order to prevent your lips from becoming dry. This is due to the fact that the orthodontist will need to affix the braces to your teeth while your mouth is wide open for a significant portion of the procedure.
Here’s What to Eat Before Getting Braces
You can make the adjustment to wearing braces easier on yourself by giving some thought to what you will eat before you get them. Once you get your braces on, you will need to steer clear of meals that are chewy, crunchy, or particularly hard since these types of foods have the potential to damage the brackets and wires. This category includes snacks such as nuts, popcorn, and hard candy, as well as some kinds of fruits and vegetables.
As a result, it is strongly suggested that you consume these meals around one to two weeks before your appointment. After you get your braces fitted, you will need to limit your diet to items that are less likely to damage your braces, such as softer fruits and vegetables.
To summarize, the process of getting braces is an important investment in your oral health that is well worth the time and effort. Even though the procedure calls for a few modifications, proper planning can help the transition go more smoothly. Check out our Orthodontic Services to learn more about braces and other dental services, or get in touch with us to schedule an appointment.