Here are a few tips for surviving your first few days in your new braces:

Soreness

It is not uncommon to experience soreness after receiving braces. You will usually have the most soreness on the second or third day after you get the braces on. The soreness should decrease each day after that. To reduce any discomfort you can try:

• Rinsing with warm salt water
• Taking Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin

Sore Spots

Sore spots are normal. Please use wax to cover the wire that seems to be causing the irritation. If irritation persists, please call our office.

Loose Brackets

Should a bracket come loose in the first 48 hours after the braces are placed, there is no need for concern! This sometimes happens and is easily fixed! Call us and we will schedule an appointment to re-attach the loose bracket.

Proper Brushing

Make sure that you go to bed each night with spotlessly clean teeth and gums by using the brushing tools and procedures that our team reviewed with you.

Avoid Certain Foods

As a general rule, avoid foods that are hard, sticky, chewy, gooey, and crunchy, as these foods can cause loose and displaced brackets, bent wires, and loose bands. Avoid foods and beverages that are high in sugar (especially sodas and sports drinks) because they will cause permanent, irreversible decay and damage to the enamel on your teeth. See our Foods to Avoid page for a detailed list.