What to Expect when Getting Braces at Parker Orthodontics in Baton Rouge

Posted on March 16, 2018

After putting on braces in Baton Rouge for several years, I can tell you one thing never changes – the fear. The fear of the unknown. As a teenager – and even as an adult – getting braces can feel overwhelming and frightening. Thoughts may race through your mind one right after another:

What will it feel like?

How long will it take to get them on?

Will my teeth hurt forever?

Will I get sores in my mouth?

Will the sores go away?

How long do I have to wear them?

I could go on, but I’m pretty sure you get the idea. Getting braces can be a scary thing. But, it can also be exciting because for the first time you’re taking control of your smile, ensuring that you’re giving yourself the best smile you can. Giving you more confidence in everything you do. And isn’t that worth it? I sure think it is.

So, to put your mind at ease, and get you ready for the smile you’ve been waiting for, I’ve put together a list of things you can expect when getting braces.

I hope these tips help you as much as they’ve helped numerous others.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU GET YOUR BRACES PUT ON:

1) It doesn’t hurt to get braces, but your mouth may be sore afterwards

(Expect your teeth and mouth to be sore for about a week.)

2) It usually takes about 1 hour

(That’s only 2 cartoons.)

3) Your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and dried before we do anything

4) Next, we’ll apply bonding glue to attach the brackets to your teeth

(Be forewarned: the glue doesn’t taste good.)

5) Finally, arch wire will go between the brackets to connect your teeth, and rubber bands will secure it all in place

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU GET HOME:

1) Make soft foods your best friend – soups, mac n’ cheese, frozen yogurt, milkshakes, applesauce, bananas – you get the idea

2) Feeling soreness is normal

(Take a pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen – sometimes even Orajel® can help.)

3) During the first few weeks you may experience mouth sores

(Helpful tip: apply orthodontic wax to your new brackets to give those sores some time to heal.)

4) If your lips and gums feel sore, create a rinse of warm salt water

(How to make the rinse: 1/2 tsp of salt per cup of water swished around in your mouth several times a day will ease the irritation and speed up healing.)

Now, let’s put on a brave face because you’re about to get a smile that will give you confidence for decades to come.

Ready to come see Dr. Parker in Baton Rouge, Central, Gonzales or Donaldsonville for your complimentary braces or Invisalign consultation? Click here to schedule now!