Page 3 - Orthosmile Orthodontics

What To Expect

With Braces

After initial placement of the braces, your lips will feel like they are sticking out. Your lips, tongue and cheeks will have
to get accustomed to your new braces. You may also feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to
biting pressures for three to seven days. The teeth may be slightly mobile, since they will already be moving into their
new corrected position. The discomfort mimics a pressure sensation or a dull ache. You should not feel anything
sharp. If the tenderness is severe, take Panadol or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated
as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface
of the braces. Normally they take up to about 6 to 8
weeks to toughen up. Although orthodontic wax is
available to help relieve you of the irritation and
discomfort, we strongly advise you against using them
so as to allow your cheeks and lips to adapt faster and
get tougher against the braces. To help you get use to
your braces quicker, start rinsing your mouth with a
warm salt water mouthwash for about 4 times a day over
the next 7 days. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in half
a glass of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously
for about 1 minute.

A soft diet may be needed during these days, such as
jello, soups, soft casseroles, etc. until you feel more
comfortable. Small bites and chewing on the back teeth
may also help.

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