5 Tips for Surviving Your First Week with Braces
Congratulations, you’ve just gotten braces! While this is an exciting step towards a beautiful, healthy smile, it can also be a bit overwhelming. You may be wondering what to expect during your first week with braces and how to take care of them. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share 5 tips for surviving your first week with braces.
Tip 1: Stick to Soft Foods
During the first week with braces, your mouth may be sore and sensitive. To avoid any unnecessary discomfort, it’s best to stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t get stuck in your braces. Some great options include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
- Soup
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Oatmeal
- Soft fruits like bananas and berries
- Soft cooked vegetables like carrots and squash
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods during this time, as they can damage your braces or get stuck in them. This includes things like popcorn, nuts, chips, and gum.
Tip 2: Take Pain Relievers as Needed
It’s normal to experience some discomfort during the first week with braces. Your teeth may feel sore as they adjust to the pressure of the braces. To help alleviate this pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult with your orthodontist if the pain persists.
Tip 3: Keep Your Braces Clean
It’s important to keep your braces clean to prevent any issues like tooth decay or gum disease. During the first week, you may find it challenging to brush and floss around your braces. Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently in a circular motion.
- Use a floss threader to help you floss between your braces and under the wires.
- Consider using an interdental brush to clean between the brackets and wires.
- Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill any bacteria.
It’s also important to avoid any foods that can get stuck in your braces, as this can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay. If you do get food stuck in your braces, be sure to rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth as soon as possible.
Tip 4: Use Wax to Prevent Irritation
During the first week with braces, you may experience some irritation or soreness on the inside of your cheeks or lips. This is normal as your mouth adjusts to the braces. To help alleviate this discomfort, you can use orthodontic wax. Simply take a small piece of wax and roll it into a ball, then place it over the bracket or wire that is causing irritation. This will create a barrier between your braces and your mouth, reducing friction and discomfort.
Tip 5: Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions
Your orthodontist will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your braces during the first week and beyond. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best results and avoid any complications. This may include wearing rubber bands, avoiding certain foods, or using special tools to clean your braces.
Bonus Tip: Be Patient and Stay Positive
Getting braces can be a big adjustment, both physically and emotionally. It’s normal to feel a bit self-conscious or uncomfortable during the first week. Remember to be patient with yourself and your braces. It may take some time to get used to them, but the end result will be worth it. Stay positive and focus on the beautiful, healthy smile that you’ll have once your braces come off.
Use Wax and Keep Your Braces Clean
The first week with braces can be a bit challenging, but with these tips, you’ll be able to survive it with ease. Remember to stick to soft foods, take pain relievers as needed, keep your braces clean, use wax to prevent irritation, and follow your orthodontist’s instructions. And most importantly, be patient and stay positive. Before you know it, you’ll be rocking a beautiful, confident smile.