Getting braces is something that can completely change everything you’re used to. Even though they only occupy a small part of your body, they can take some time to get accustomed to.
The best way to adjust once you do have braces is to be informed beforehand of what to expect. Here are some of the changes you can expect once you’ve got braces.
Feeling “Fragile”
When your mouth is full of a metal apparatus you may feel cautious about them breaking all of the time. If you play sports you may be concerned about them getting damaged in a fall, or even cutting the inside of your mouth.
The good news is, that braces are sturdy. Although accidents can occur, you can avoid them by taking the right safety measures. Wearing a mouthguard during sports should avoid any impact injuries.
If one of the brackets come loose or something shifts, it’s as simple as making an appointment and it can get fixed easily. Most accidents are an easy fix and won’t have caused much damage.
Changed Appearance
If you get metal braces, you may find that your appearance changes quite a bit. Some people may feel uncomfortable with the sudden change in their face, however, over time you’ll adjust.
If the appearance of your braces is really a concern for you, then you may want to consider getting invisible braces. They are clear trays that sit over your teeth which are hardly visible. However, it’s important to know that they cost significantly more than traditional metal brackets.
They May Be Painful
Initially you may experience discomfort and even pain. Since your braces are placing pressure on the teeth you may feel a persistent ache. Generally, this feeling passes after a while, and you’ll adjust. If for any reason the pain is worsening, you should alert your orthodontist as soon as possible.
You may also find that your mouth gets a few nicks and scrapes from the braces during the first week. However, your skin should start to be more resistant after the initial adjustment period.
Difficulties Eating
Your orthodontist will recommend only eating soft foods at first until the pain subsides. After the initial adjustment period, you can go back to eating regularly. However, food can get trapped in your braces much easier than before.
Therefore, there are certain foods that you may want to avoid. If stick foods get wedged in your braces it can breed bacteria which may lead to cavities.
Just be sure to clean your teeth carefully and keep up with good hygiene. Your orthodontist will probably recommend brushing your teeth after every meal to ensure that you get any leftover debris.
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