What to Expect if You’re Getting Braces

If you are in need of braces, you are probably wondering what to expect and how your life might change. In this post, we will take a look at some of the things you can expect before, during, and after treatment.

Before you begin orthodontic treatment, you may be worried that getting braces is going to be very uncomfortable, or even painful. This may have been true in the past, but with the use of Damon™ System braces (and the absence of palatal expanders) getting braces is more comfortable than ever. You may also feel that people may judge you or look at you differently. In our experience, this is just not something that really happens with braces being much more common for people of all ages.

Once your treatment begins and your braces are placed, you will need to adjust your routine slightly. You will want to avoid foods that are excessively hard, sticky, or crunchy as they can actually move or knock off your brackets. You should also avoid chewing gum, drinking sugary / acidic drinks often, and chewing on fingernails and other objects. You will also need to change how you brush your teeth in order to keep them clean and in good condition throughout the treatment process.

After your orthodontic treatment is complete and your braces are removed, you will need to wear a retainer in order to prevent your teeth from shifting. You should also schedule a dental cleaning and exam right away, as even if you have kept up with cleaning during treatment, there will be areas of your teeth that have not been exposed and will need to be cleaned.

At Bandeen Orthodontics of Three Rivers, we know that the thought of getting braces can be overwhelming. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, do not hesitate to contact us.