Getting braces brings a few changes to your daily routine. The first week may feel different, but it helps to know what might happen. Learn here what to expect during the early days, so you can feel more prepared and go through the adjustment period with simple steps.
Mild discomfort is normal:
Once the dental braces Abu Dhabi are placed, your mouth may feel slightly tight or tender. This feeling usually lasts a few days as your teeth begin to shift. Your lips and cheeks may also touch the brackets and feel slightly sore. Warm saltwater rinses may help ease this feeling. Eating softer foods like soup, yoghurt, and mashed potatoes can reduce pressure on your teeth.
Chewing may seem unfamiliar:
During the first few days, chewing may seem unfamiliar. It’s better to chew slowly and take small bites. Avoid hard or crunchy foods like raw vegetables, crusty bread, or popcorn. These might press against the brackets or get stuck. Cutting food into smaller pieces helps manage each bite more easily.
Brushing and flossing take more time:
Brushing your teeth may feel changed once braces are in place. Spend extra time to clean around the brackets and wires. Use a soft toothbrush and take care not to rush. Flossing might take longer at first, especially when learning to work around the wires. Some people find floss threaders useful during this time.
Speech might be slightly affected:
You might notice a slight change in how you speak during the first few days. This is often due to your mouth adjusting to the new surface against your inner lips and tongue. Most people adjust naturally within a few days. Reading out loud or speaking more often may help this change feel easier.
Brackets may cause friction:
The brackets might feel rough against the inside of your cheeks and lips. Dental wax may be applied to the braces to cover sharp areas. Reapplying wax regularly can reduce this friction during the first week. If a wire feels sharp or pokes, rinse your mouth gently and let your orthodontist know if it continues.
Staying patient helps:
The first week with braces may take some getting used to, but most people settle into the new routine within a few days. By keeping your mouth clean and being careful with food, you give yourself a good start. Over time, these habits become part of your normal routine.