A orthodontist's gloved hands hold a mouth model with braces in San Antonio, TX

Your First Day In Braces

February 27, 2021 3:12 am

Getting braces can feel like a rite of passage for pre-teens and teens! One of the most common questions we receive from young patients is what to expect the first day they get their braces.

In this blog post, we give an overview of what to expect during your first day with braces and provide insight into how we go about the braces process at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics.

Why Get Braces?

Skeptical about getting braces? Don’t be! Braces help shift your teeth to straighter, healthier positions so that you can eat, talk, and smile the way you deserve to. Whether you have crooked teeth or uncomfortable bite issues, braces are a temporary way to give you beautiful teeth that are easier to take care of.

Traditional metal braces are a versatile and affordable option for many patients. However, they do require some adjustments to your oral hygiene routine and diet. You need to be meticulous about cleaning your teeth because food and bacteria can accumulate around the brackets and under the wires, and you should avoid hard and chewy foods that can damage your braces.

While braces are typically worn between 12 months to two years, the amount of time you have braces completely depends on your unique situation.

Braces Process

First, you need to schedule an orthodontic consultation with our team. If we determine you’d benefit from braces, we can move forward with the process. The brackets will be temporarily bonded to your teeth and connected with wires. Your teeth may feel a bit sensitive afterwards and it will take several days to a few weeks for your tongue and lips to get used to your braces.

What to Expect During Your First Day with Braces

Before you leave our office, we’ll take the following steps to make sure you’re set up for success:

  • Check your wire ends to make sure they don’t poke your cheek or tongue
  • Provide instructions on any additional gear you need to wear, adjustments you need to make, how to clean your braces, and what foods to avoid while wearing braces
  • Assemble a take-home kit with dental wax, cleaning aids, rubber bands, and other materials you need for your braces
  • Schedule your next visit to make sure all is moving along smoothly with your braces

We use special, state-of-the-art appliances that are light force to prevent too much discomfort and pain. However, expect some mild soreness and tightness for the next few days after you first get your braces.

Affordable Orthodontics in San Antonio, TX

At Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we’re proud to provide a comfortable, kid-friendly environment and top-notch orthodontic treatment at an affordable price for children, teenagers, and adults. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to seeing you!

Contact Us


Categorised in:

Comments are closed here.