Statistics show that 20% of the general population has some form of facial deformity. Some of these are oral-facial deformities that can now be fixed thanks to advancements in surgical, orthodontic, and prosthodontic treatments. These treatments include braces or using an Invisalign aligner, which are essential in addressing oral health abnormalities.
Unfortunately, many patients experience pretreatment anxiety, making them reluctant to book an appointment with an orthodontist. One way to deal with this anxiety is by understanding how it feels after the procedure. Here are a few things to expect in the first week, after a same-day braces procedure.
Expect a Change of Diet
After getting braces, your orthodontist will advise you on foods to eat and avoid. Your diet will consist mostly of soft foods. So it is a good idea to prepare by stocking up on soups, juices, mashed potatoes, and avocados.
You’ll want to avoid sticky foods like chewing gum. Hard fruits and vegetables such as raw carrots, and apples, can break the wires and shift the plates on your braces. The best approach is to prepare a week or two before meeting your orthodontist.
Updating Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Soft brush to manage the pressure you exert on the tooth. Pieces of food can get stuck in your braces, so you should brush gently and attentively.
Flossing is also crucial to prevent cavities and other oral complications during recovery. You can ask your family orthodontist for an interproximal brush. It is specially designed to reach into the brackets where conventional brushes would not. Your orthodontics professional will also show you the proper oral hygiene methods you should adopt.
Dealing with Aches and Pains
The most challenging part of having braces is dealing with aches and sores. There could be irritation on the side of your cheeks. The misconception is that the soreness is due to the braces rubbing against the side of your mouth. But it is often evident in people prone to allergies.
The best orthodontists usually monitor and recommend treatment to deal with the soreness. They may recommend pain relief medication or dental appliances to minimize contact with the cheek.
You May Need a Mouth Guard
A mouth protector can take a blow to minimize injury to your teeth and gums. It is, therefore, highly recommended if you are going to be taking part in sports. A mouth guard also protects either side of the cheek in case of an accident.
The device ought to be custom-made by your orthodontist. Generic mouth protectors are ill-fitting and not suitable for braces. Your orthodontist may recommend having one for both the lower and upper teeth. However, that will depend on their assessment of your oral health before getting braces.
Your Teeth and Gums will Adjust
During the first week, your teeth still need to adjust. Stick to your oral hygiene and diet routine. Observe follow-up sessions, and be sure to call your orthodontist whenever you have an emergency. Your family orthodontist will walk you through the recovery process.
Book Your Appointment Today
Getting braces is a mostly painless procedure. Aches and sores are a common occurrence in the first week. After that, the most challenging part will be over in no time, and a radiant smile will emerge.
