Getting braces is a pretty common thing that many people do in their childhood or in their adult years. It can be a little daunting to think about getting braces, but it is a pretty simple process and there is a lot of information available to help you prepare. If you are getting ready to get braces, there are a few things that you should know before you have them placed. The list below details a few of the most important things you should know before getting braces.
Food Restrictions
One of the most important things you should know about getting braces is that it will impact the kinds of foods you can eat. The main thing is that certain textures and types of food will be more likely to stick in your braces or even pull them out of place. Preparing for your new diet by removing the things you can’t eat and buying more of what you can will help you to better take care of your braces and to not feel like you are missing out when you are eating with braces.
Some Irritation
It’s also important to know that you will likely experience at least some irritation with your braces. Metal braces can cause the insides of your lips and cheeks to become irritated when they rub. This experience tends to lessen over time, as your mouth gets used to the braces being there. If you are looking to avoid that irritation, there are a few different options that you can consider. For example, Invisalign is less likely to irritate your mouth and gums than traditional braces. Choosing a less irritating option can be a great fit.
It will Be Difficult at First
When you first get braces, you will have a lot of adjustments to make, both in the way you use your mouth and in the kinds of things you need to do for oral care. This is especially true during the first day and week of having braces. Just know that things will get better over time and that you will quickly learn to manage life with braces much more easily.
Getting ready for braces should be a time of learning and preparation. Everyone’s experience with braces is a little different, but there are some things you can count on as you navigate the process. Give yourself time to adjust and talk to your orthodontist if you have any questions or concerns.
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