First Days with Braces in Atlanta, GA
Whether you’re sporting Invisalign® or metal braces from Patel & Womble Orthodontics, the first days with braces can take a bit of an adjustment. Some of the most common questions that board-certified orthodontists Dr. Brian A. Womble and Dr. Ruchir R. Patel get from patients at our McDonough and Norcross offices near Atlanta are about what to expect during the first week of their treatment.
Are Your Braces Making Your Mouth Feel Sore?
If you’re new to wearing braces, soreness is fairly common. During the first few days, your soreness will likely peak before gradually subsiding. Fortunately, it is only temporary. Your mouth, lips, or teeth may feel sensitive or tender. We recommend easing your discomfort with an over-the-counter pain reliever for the first couple of days. Opt for one that does not contain aspirin or ibuprofen. Instead, we suggest using acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed until the soreness subsides.
Detached or Broken Orthodontic Brackets
Over the course of your orthodontic treatment, it’s likely that at some point in time, you will experience a loose bracket or another type of appliance. In most cases, broken brackets occur in the first several days of treatment, while you’re still adjusting to your orthodontics. You will need to pay attention to your food choices, as many common foods could cause a bracket to pop off of your tooth.
Avoid things such as:
- Sticky foods or candies that can cling to your brackets and wires
- Hard food or candies that may break the bonding due to chewing pressure
- Chewing on non-food items, such as fingernails or pens
- Acidic foods, such as lemons or sodas, which can interfere with the materials that bond your appliances into place
- Sugary foods that increase your risk of tooth decay
For more information on foods that you shouldn’t eat during orthodontic treatment, be sure to read our list of foods to avoid. If a bracket does come loose, be sure to let us know right away so that we can provide you with emergency information and get you into our office as soon as possible to repair it.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Your first days of braces will be over before you know it. Fortunately, you can easily manage any minor discomfort or irritation as your mouth adjusts to treatment. Take the time to choose the right foods, care for your smile properly and let our board-certified orthodontists know about any concerns that you may have. Patel & Womble Orthodontics, located in McDonough and Norcross near Atlanta, GA, is happy to assist you with your common problems. Please contact us if you are in pain or finding it difficult to manage your first days of treatment. If you are considering getting braces with Dr. Ruchir R. Patel or Dr. Brian A. Womble, be sure to ask about the dental financing options available through CareCredit®.