Congratulations - you’re on your way to a beautiful smile! Below are some tips and guidelines to help you adjust to life with braces:

 

Pain

• You may experience tooth sensitivity or pain for a few days after your braces are placed.  Tylenol or Advil will help relieve this discomfort. Some irritation to the cheeks and tongue is normal, but if you feel anything sharp is poking you or any sores are developing, please call our office. Do not take medications that you are allergic to.

• If you’re experiencing significant irritation, we suggest rinsing your mouth with a solution of warm salt water (half a teaspoon of table salt to one cup of warm water) five or six times a day for 30 seconds each time. The salt water will help relieve pain and allow sores areas to heal faster.

 

Diet

• You can eat right after your appointment, but be sure to stick to the provided list of foods to eat and avoid.

 

Wax

• Brackets are designed to be gentle on your mouth, but they can rub on the soft skin in your mouth and cause irritation while you’re still getting used to them. Over time, your skin will toughen and you won’t continue to get sore spots. Until then, it’s a good idea to use the wax we provide to ease any discomfort.

 

Oral Hygiene

• Consistent and thorough daily oral hygiene is essential to the success of your treatment.  Brushing, flossing and rinsing with recommended products are critical. Brush and floss your teeth after every meal, and be sure to get the food that might get stuck in your brackets.

• Many electric toothbrushes are available with special brush heads for orthodontics. Please ask about the products offered at our office.

 

Follow Up Treatment

• It is important to follow all instructions and return for all scheduled appointments to maximize your the success of your treatment.

• If your elastics break frequently, a wire or band loosens, or a hook breaks off call our office immediately. Don’t wait until your next appointment. These problems need to be corrected as soon as possible.