Orthodontist in Los Banos and Turlock

first day in braces

The adhesive used for attaching the braces to your teeth cures quickly, but takes 24 hours to completely cure. You can eat anytime after leaving our office. However, we ask that you be mindful of the suggested list of foods that may be harmful to the braces. Until you become accustomed to eating with your new braces, you may find it beneficial to follow a diet consisting of soft foods.

Will the braces cause discomfort?

Initially the braces feel like they "stick out." This is normal. As you become accustomed to your braces and tooth alignment improves, this sensation will disappear and will cease to be a concern. Although the brackets have been rounded and smoothed, until the cheek tissues have "toughened," you may find it helpful to use a small piece of wax around the bracket that is causing the irritation. You will probably notice some discomfort beginning a few hours after your braces are placed. Some teeth, usually the front teeth, may be tender and sensitive to pressure. Occasionally, patients report that they experience no discomfort, but most have some soreness during the first eight hours, dissipating within the week. Exactly when the discomfort ceases is impossible to predict and differs for each patient. You may wish to take non-prescription pain remedies commonly used for other discomforts, such as headaches. For maximum effectiveness, it may be best to take such medications before the discomfort begins.

We ask that you complete some routine steps prior to leaving the office. These steps will minimize discomfort related to irritation from the braces and ensure an optimal response to treatment. Please make these steps a part of each office visit:
  • Using your finger and tongue, check to see that the wire ends do not extend into areas that might poke or scrape the cheek or tongue.
  • Make sure you understand what you are to do until your next appointment. This could include wearing elastics as instructed, or following specific hygiene or diet instructions.
  • Make sure you have an adequate supply of wax, special cleaning aids, elastic bands, or related materials you may need between appointments.
  • Always schedule your next appointment before leaving the office. Waiting 1-2 weeks after an appointment before scheduling your next office visit complicates the scheduling process, since appointments are programmed 4-10 weeks in advance. Postponing appointments is a common contributor to overtime treatment.