dba07d661ed666578b41c0272c788087

Brace Yourself: What to Expect While Getting Braces the First Time

While getting braces might not be at the top of your list of fun things to do, it can be a positive experience when you know what to expect and when you focus on what the results will be once your braces are removed. Wearing them will be worth it when you see how beautiful your smile will be afterward. 

Even knowing this, you might be anxious wondering what it’s like getting braces. Here’s what you need to know:

Getting Braces Starts With a Consultation

Before you ever get your braces put on, you’ll have a consultation with your orthodontist. You’ll start with getting some x-rays taken of your teeth and jaw and then your orthodontist will make some recommendations for the best braces for you. 

Take Care of Other Oral Care Conditions First

After your consultation, it’s important to take care of any other oral health issues you might have before moving forward. If you need to have a tooth extracted, a cavity filled, or just a good, thorough cleaning from your dentist, now is the time to do it. Having good oral health beforehand will improve the overall experience with braces. 

The First Visit

During your first visit, your orthodontist will need to make a mold of your teeth. This is done by biting down on a tray filled with soft, gooey material that takes an impression of each groove and space.

Your orthodontist will also take a digital scan of your mouth. This is done to help the orthodontist know how each of your teeth currently sits inside your mouth and how to fit the braces properly. Once this is done, an appointment will be made to have your braces put on. 

Time for the Braces!

On the day of your appointment, take your time brushing and flossing ahead of time. Try not to be worried about pain. It’s true that getting braces on isn’t the most comfortable experience in the world, but neither is it painful. There will be some mild pressure at most. 

Your orthodontist will insert a tube in your mouth to suction out saliva so that your mouth stays dry. Then your teeth will be prepped with an adhesive which will hold the braces in place. Once a brace placed on the surface of each tooth, a curing light hardens the adhesive to set the bond. 

Now it’s time for your orthodontist to run the wire through the braces to hold everything in place. The orthodontist will check with you several times along the way to make sure you’re comfortable. Finding a good orthodontist makes a big difference, so check out jacobusortho.com for a great experience.  

And that’s about it! It’s a pretty simple process getting braces, and you’ll leave after this appointment with your braces in place. 

Follow-Up Appointments

Once your braces are in, you can expect to have regular follow-up appointments. Your first appointment will be about 2-8 weeks after your braces are put in place. Your orthodontist wants to check for any needed adjustments and see if progress is being made. You’ll likely have your old bands replaced, which is fun since you can choose the new colors!

Follow-up appointments will continue every month or two during the course of your treatment. Each time the braces are adjusted, expect to feel some pressure due to tightening. It’s nothing a little Tylenol and an ice pack can’t help with, and you’ll be feeling fine after a day or two. 

Research Other Dental Health Related Topics

Now that you know what to expect when getting braces, be sure to have a look at our other insightful oral health-related articles.

Keeping your teeth healthy is crucial to maintaining overall health, and we’re sure you’ll find some great information here. 

Be sure to check back regularly for great information toward living a more healthy life!