If you are going to have braces put on, you'll want to be prepared for everything that you can expect to experience when you have them in place. The more you prepare yourself, the easier the transition will be for you. Also, you can better prepare yourself by purchasing some aids to help you when you are wearing your braces.

Be ready for a bit of discomfort

While having braces put on isn't considered to be very painful, there is a certain degree of some pain and discomfort you should expect. When the braces are put on your teeth, the bands will be tightened so pressure is out on your teeth in order to convince them to shift into the proper position. This is what will eventually lead to you having a straighter smile. However, this is also what causes you some discomfort when you first have them on. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can help. Also, holding an ice pack against your cheek can help with some discomfort.

Use dental wax to protect your mouth

Your new braces will also rub against certain areas of your mouth. When they do rub, it will be quite uncomfortable and can led to you getting cuts and sores in the areas where the rubbing occurs. Dental wax will help prevent this type of rubbing. To use the wax, you will take a small amount of it and roll it gently with your index finger and your thumb to make a small ball. Press that ball right onto the part of the braces that are causing you trouble, and the wax will create a smooth coating to prevent further irritation.

Learn how to eat in your braces

When you first get the braces put on, you can expect to have a bit of a rough time eating due to both the tenderness of your teeth and the fact that you aren't yet used to eating with them in. The first couple of days, you may want to drink as many of your meals as possible in the form of shakes and smoothies. When you do eat, make it things like yogurt, pudding and apple sauce. Add in regular foods as you begin to feel you are able to.

Now that you know just what you need to prepare for when you go in to have braces put on, you shouldn't find yourself dealing with any surprises. For more information and tips, speak with the dentists at a local clinic like Reed & Sahlaney Orthodontics, LLP

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