What to Expect When You First Get Braces
Getting braces is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Whether you’re a teen or an adult starting orthodontic treatment at Krass Orthodontics in Ellicott City, MD, the first few days and weeks with braces can feel like an adjustment. But don’t worry — with a little preparation and patience, you’ll adapt quickly and be well on your way to the smile you’ve always wanted.
Dr. David and our team are here to make your transition as smooth as possible. Here’s everything you need to know about adapting to life with braces.
The First Few Days: What’s Normal
During the first 3–5 days after getting braces, it’s completely normal to experience some discomfort. Your teeth are beginning to shift, and your mouth needs time to adjust to the new hardware. You may notice:
- Mild soreness or tenderness in your teeth and gums, especially when biting down
- Irritation on the inside of your cheeks and lips as they get used to the brackets and wires
- A feeling of pressure as the braces begin guiding your teeth into their new positions
These sensations are temporary and a sign that your treatment is already working. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage any discomfort, and orthodontic wax — which we’ll provide at your appointment — can be placed over brackets that rub against your cheeks.
Eating with Braces: Foods to Enjoy and Foods to Avoid
One of the biggest adjustments when you get braces is changing your eating habits. During the first week, stick to soft foods while your mouth adjusts. Great options include:
- Yogurt, smoothies, and milkshakes
- Mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs
- Pasta, soft rice, and soups
- Bananas, applesauce, and soft-cooked vegetables
As you get more comfortable, you can return to most of your favorite foods. However, there are some foods you’ll want to avoid throughout your treatment to protect your brackets and wires:
- Hard foods: Nuts, hard candies, ice, popcorn kernels, and raw carrots
- Sticky foods: Caramel, taffy, gummy bears, and chewing gum
- Crunchy foods: Chips, pretzels, and hard taco shells
- Foods you bite into: Apples and corn on the cob (cut them into pieces instead)
Pro Tip: Cut Food Into Smaller Pieces
Rather than biting directly into foods like sandwiches, pizza, or fruit, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This protects your braces and makes eating more comfortable.
Keeping Your Teeth Clean with Braces
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is more important than ever when you have braces. Food particles can easily get trapped around brackets and wires, increasing the risk of cavities and gum irritation. Here’s how to keep your smile healthy during treatment:
Brushing
Brush your teeth after every meal and before bed using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Angle the brush at 45 degrees to clean above and below each bracket. An electric toothbrush can be especially helpful for getting a thorough clean around your braces.
Flossing
Flossing with braces takes a little extra effort, but it’s essential. Use a floss threader or orthodontic flosser to get the floss under the wire and between your teeth. Water flossers are also an excellent tool for flushing out food particles.
Rinsing
An antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can provide extra protection against plaque and strengthen your enamel. Rinse once or twice daily for the best results.
Managing Discomfort Throughout Treatment
After each adjustment appointment at our Ellicott City office, you may experience a day or two of mild soreness as your teeth continue to move. Here are some tried-and-true ways to manage discomfort:
- Orthodontic wax: Apply a small piece over any bracket or wire that causes irritation
- Saltwater rinses: Swish warm salt water to soothe sore gums
- Cold foods and drinks: Ice cream, frozen yogurt, and cold water can help numb soreness
- Over-the-counter pain relief: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed
Protecting Your Braces During Activities
If you play sports, it’s important to wear a mouthguard designed for braces. Dr. David can recommend the right type to protect both your braces and your smile during physical activities. Many families in the Ellicott City area are active in sports, and a mouthguard is a small investment that can prevent costly repairs.
For musicians who play wind or brass instruments, you may need a short adjustment period. Orthodontic wax and lip protectors can help ease the transition.
What to Do If Something Breaks
Occasionally, a bracket may come loose or a wire may shift. If this happens, don’t panic. Apply orthodontic wax to any sharp edges and call our office at (410) 465-5945 to schedule a repair appointment. Most issues are minor and can be resolved quickly.
Avoid trying to fix or adjust your braces yourself, as this could cause further damage or delay your treatment progress.
Staying Motivated Throughout Your Journey
Orthodontic treatment is a commitment, but the results are absolutely worth it. Here are a few ways to stay motivated:
- Take progress photos: Snap a selfie each month to see how far you’ve come
- Celebrate milestones: Each adjustment brings you closer to your final smile
- Keep your eyes on the prize: Imagine the confidence you’ll feel with a beautifully aligned smile
At Krass Orthodontics, we love celebrating our patients’ progress. Check out our Smile Gallery for inspiration from real patients who have completed their treatment.
Your Partner in a Beautiful Smile
Adapting to braces is a short-term adjustment for a long-term reward. Dr. David and the entire team at Krass Orthodontics are committed to making your experience as comfortable and rewarding as possible. From your first visit to the day your braces come off, we’re with you every step of the way.
If you have questions about braces or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today or call (410) 465-5945. Our office is conveniently located at 9396 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042. We can’t wait to help you start your smile journey!
