Everything You Need To Know Before Getting Braces For The First Time

If you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, you may have a lot of questions. How do they work? How long will I need to wear them? What can I expect during the treatment process?

We’ve got answers to all of your questions about braces, from how they work to what you can expect during treatment. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before getting braces for the first time.

Types of Braces Available

In order to make the best decision for your smile, it’s important to be informed about the types of braces available and which one will be the best fit for you and your lifestyle. Here are the different types of braces:

1. Metal Braces: Metal braces are the most common type of braces. They are made of high-grade stainless steel and are very strong. They are also the most visible type of braces.
2. Ceramic Braces: Ceramic braces are made of a clear or white material that blends in with your teeth. They are less visible than metal braces but can still be seen.
3. Lingual Braces: Lingual braces are placed on the tongue side of your teeth and are completely invisible when you smile or talk. They can be more difficult to adjust to because they can rub against your tongue, but they are a good option for people who want their braces to be invisible.
4. Invisalign®: Invisalign® is a clear aligner system that is almost invisible when worn. It is removable, so you can eat and drink whatever you want while wearing them, and brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene. However, they must be worn for at least 22 hours per day in order to work properly.
5. Retainers: Retainers hold your teeth in place after you have completed treatment with braces or Invisalign®. You will need to wear them

Benefits of Braces

If you are considering getting braces, you may be wondering what the benefits are. Braces can improve your smile and your self-confidence. They can also help to improve your oral health by making it easier to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

Braces can also help to correct bite problems and alignment issues. This can lead to improved chewing and speaking ability, as well as reduced wear on the teeth. In some cases, braces can also help to relieve pain in the jaw or head.

If you are thinking about getting braces, be sure to discuss all of the potential benefits with your orthodontist. They will be able to help you decide if braces are right for you based on your individual needs and goals.

What to Expect During Your First Appointment

When you come in for your first appointment, we will do a thorough examination of your teeth and jaw. We will take x-rays and possibly photographs to help us plan your treatment. We will also ask you about your medical history and any concerns you have about getting braces.

After the examination, we will sit down with you and go over all of our findings. We will develop a treatment plan tailored specifically for you. We will discuss the different options available to you and help you choose the best course of action.

Once you have decided on a treatment plan, we will schedule your next appointment. At this appointment, we will put the braces on your teeth. We will also give you instructions on how to care for your braces and answer any questions you may have.

What to Do Before and After Getting Braces

If you’re thinking about getting braces for the first time, there are a few things you should do before and after making the decision. First, consult with an orthodontist to see if braces are right for you. Once you’ve decided to get braces, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly to remove any food particles that could become trapped in your braces. You may also want to avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could damage your braces. After you get your braces, be sure to brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy. You should also avoid eating hard or sticky foods so that you don’t damage your braces.

How to Take Care of Your Braces

If you’re considering getting braces, congratulations! You’re on your way to achieving the smile of your dreams. But before you get too excited, there are a few things you need to know about how to take care of your braces. Here are a few tips:

1. Brush, brush, brush! It’s important to brush your teeth at least three times a day (after every meal is best) to avoid plaque build-up and tooth decay. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes to avoid damaging your braces.
2. Floss daily. This is one step that’s often overlooked, but it’s crucial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy while you have braces. Use a floss threader or water flosser to get between those hard-to-reach places.
3. Avoid hard foods. Chewy caramels, crunchy chips, and sticky candy can all damage your braces or cause them to become loose. Stick to softer foods like cooked vegetables, soups, and mashed potatoes.
4. Watch out for sugary drinks. Soda, sports drinks, and even fruit juice can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities. Stick to water as much as possible or opt for sugar-free beverages instead.
5. Visit your orthodontist regularly. In addition to regular dental checkups, you’ll need to see your orthodontist every 4-8

The Cost of Braces

The cost of braces will vary depending on the severity of your child’s dental problem and the type of braces that are recommended by the orthodontist. 

In general, traditional metal braces are the most affordable option, followed by clear ceramic braces. If your child needs special treatment or has a more severe dental problem, lingual braces (braces that attach to the back of the teeth) or Damon System braces (self-ligating brackets that do not require as many adjustments) may be recommended. These options are usually more expensive than traditional metal or ceramic braces. 

Your orthodontist will develop a treatment plan specifically for your child, which will include an estimate of the total cost of treatment. Be sure to ask about payment options and whether your insurance plan offers any coverage for orthodontic treatment.

Conclusion

Getting braces for the first time can be a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and knowledge of what to expect, you can make sure that your orthodontic treatment goes as smoothly as possible. We hope this article has provided you with everything you need to know before getting braces for the first time so that you can feel comfortable and confident going into your appointment. Good luck!

FAQs

1. How painful are braces?

A: It is not uncommon for braces to hurt, but some patients may feel sore for a few days after certain visits. In these cases, pain medications, such as Advil or Tylenol, will ease the discomfort. Most patients, however, do not experience any soreness after the visit! Our patients are often reminded, “It doesn’t have to hurt to work!”

2. When I have braces, are there any foods I cannot eat?

A: We will provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid during orthodontic treatment once treatment begins. Hard foods (nuts, hard candy, raw vegetables, French bread, pizza crust) and sticky foods (caramel and taffy) are among them. If you carefully follow our instructions, you will be able to avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces.

3. When wearing braces, how often should I brush my teeth?

A: In order to avoid gum disease and cavities between teeth, brush your teeth at least three times each day – after each meal and before bed.