6 Tips for Getting Adjusted to Your New Dental Braces

braces Phoenix, AZ
Braces are still the most popular choice for straightening teeth. According to the American Dental Association, today’s braces are more comfortable than ever before due to the newer materials that apply a constant, gentle force to move teeth and usually require fewer adjustments. While braces are now improved and better than before, new wearers will still go through an adjustment period.

Getting used to wearing new braces

While there is indeed a learning curve when it comes to wearing new braces for the first time, this initial adjustment period does not take a lot of time to go through. There are even some beneficial tips that you can follow to ensure that the adjustment process is one that is simple and goes smoothly.

6 tips for getting adjusted to your dental braces

Once a new wearer of braces makes it through the initial adjustment period, which only takes a week or two, the rest is easy. The following is a list of six really great tips that can help anyone adjust to wearing their new braces.

#1 – Soft food

Choosing to eat soft foods for the first few days is suggested. The teeth will be sore for about three or four days and eating softer foods will help ease any soreness experienced at this time. Hard foods can be slowly introduced once the soreness begins to go away.

#2 – Rinse the mouth with salt water

Any soreness and/or irritation can be treated by rinsing the mouth with warm salt water. The salt water should be gently swished in the mouth for about 30 seconds and can be done up to six times a day. The saltwater reduces any discomfort and also allows any sores that may be present to heal faster.

#3 – Addressing sore spots

Any sore spots on the lips or cheeks can be addressed by using a special dental wax made specifically for this reason. Some dentists will recommend avoiding using wax as they want the sore areas to toughen up, leaving it up to the patient to use wax or not.

#4 – Take pain medication as needed

Many patients will choose to take over the counter pain medications during the first few days to minimize or eliminate their pain and/or discomfort.

#5 – Stop smoking

Smoking negatively affects the teeth and gums, making it harder for braces to do their job. When one’s oral health is in jeopardy due to smoking, they may need to wear their braces for a longer amount of time.

#6 – A good oral hygiene routine

Cleaning braces after every meal is necessary in order to remove any food debris that may get lodged in the braces. A regular routine of brushing the teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day helps to keep the teeth and gums healthy.

Are you ready for braces?

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Phoenix's Family-Friendly Kids Dentist

Welcome to Camelback Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, nestled in the heart of Phoenix, AZ, where we offer a warm, family-oriented approach to dental care for your little ones. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment where every child feels at home. We're dedicated to providing gentle, personalized dental care that meets the unique needs […]

Children's Dental Care in Phoenix

At Camelback Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing top-notch children's dental care in Phoenix, AZ. Our mission is to create a comfortable and welcoming treatment environment that instills a positive attitude toward oral health from an early age. Smiles from the Moment You Walk-in From the moment your child steps into our […]

The Importance of Early Orthodontic Treatment

You will be surprised how early orthodontic treatment, including teeth straightening, can solve childhood dental problems. Crooked teeth, overcrowding, and tooth decay are some of the issues children face early in life. These days, parents have finally realized the importance of proper dental health. They know how it can affect the kids’ well-being. Teeth straightening…

Recent Posts

Phoenix's Family-Friendly Kids Dentist

Welcome to Camelback Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, nestled in the heart of Phoenix, AZ, where we offer a warm, family-oriented approach to dental care for your little ones. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment where every child feels at home. We're dedicated to providing gentle, personalized dental care that meets the unique needs […]

Children's Dental Care in Phoenix

At Camelback Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing top-notch children's dental care in Phoenix, AZ. Our mission is to create a comfortable and welcoming treatment environment that instills a positive attitude toward oral health from an early age. Smiles from the Moment You Walk-in From the moment your child steps into our […]

Your Phoenix Pediatric Dentist and Orthodontist
We can provide continued pediatric dentistry and orthodontic care for children as they grow up.
Copyright © 2024 All Rights Reserved Camelback Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics • AZ Specialty Dental Services, PLLC - Jeffrey Burg, DDS | Hosted by Specialty Dental Brands™

Book Your Appointment Today!

Book Now
menu