What to Expect With Your New Braces
Embarking on the orthodontic journey with braces is an exciting step towards achieving a beautiful, healthy smile.
At Children’s Dental Ranch of New Braunfels, we are dedicated to making the experience of living with braces as smooth and enjoyable as possible for our young patients.
This page offers insights and tips to help children and teens (and their parents) navigate life with braces successfully.
Adjusting to Braces
The initial period of adjusting to braces can take a little time. It’s normal to experience some discomfort as your mouth adapts to the new appliances. Soft foods, over-the-counter pain relievers, and orthodontic wax can help ease this transition. Remember, any discomfort is temporary and a normal part of the process toward a fantastic smile.
Eating with Braces
Dietary adjustments are necessary to protect your braces and ensure effective treatment. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage braces. Encourage eating softer foods, especially in the first few days after braces are applied or adjusted. We’ll provide a comprehensive list of foods to enjoy and those to avoid.
Oral Hygiene with Braces
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important while wearing braces. Brushing after every meal, using a fluoride toothpaste, and flossing daily are essential practices. We also recommend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Dealing with Discomfort and Breakages
If braces cause irritation, orthodontic wax can be applied to the problematic area. In case of any breakages or loose wires, contact us immediately for advice or to schedule an appointment for repair.
Staying Active and Involved
Braces don’t mean you have to give up sports or musical instruments. For sports, we recommend using an orthodontic mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth. With instruments, it may take some time to adjust, but with practice, it will become comfortable again.
Regular Orthodontic Appointments
Regular appointments are key to successful orthodontic treatment. These visits allow us to adjust your braces and monitor your progress. It’s important to attend all scheduled appointments and follow any advice or instructions given by our orthodontic team.
Life Post-Braces
As you approach the end of your treatment, we’ll discuss the next steps, which usually involve wearing a retainer to maintain your new smile. We’ll provide all the information needed to care for your retainer and ensure the longevity of your orthodontic results.
We’re Here to Support You
At Children’s Dental Ranch, we’re here to support you every step of the way on your orthodontic journey. If you have any questions or concerns about life with braces, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is committed to making your experience positive and rewarding. Call us or book an appointment online for any assistance.
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Dr. Ashley Hill
Dr. Anthony Machani
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Children's Dental Ranch of New Braunfels
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- Monday-Friday: 8 AM - 5 PMTuesdays: Orthodontic Appointments Only