What to Expect on Your First Day with Braces

The day you get braces marks the beginning of an exciting journey toward the smile you’ve always wanted. As you step into the office, you might feel a mix of excitement and nerves wondering what the experience will be like. At Hatcher & Frey, we guide you through every step—from the first bracket to your first look in the mirror. But what happens once you leave the office? Here’s a breakdown of what to expect on your first day with braces and how to make the transition smooth and comfortable.

The Process: What Happens During Your Appointment?

When you arrive at our office for your appointment, you can rest assured knowing that the process of placing braces is generally quick and painless. The appointment begins with cleaning and drying your teeth to guarantee a strong bond for the brackets. Once the brackets are secured with a special adhesive, your Hatcher & Frey orthodontist will connect them with a thin archwire, which will gently guide your teeth into their new positions over time.

While the application of braces doesn’t hurt, you might notice some changes as your teeth and mouth adjust. Here’s what you can expect:

Gentler Movements with Custom Appliances

Hatcher and Frey’s custom appliances are designed with your comfort in mind, applying just the right amount of pressure to move your teeth effectively with minimal discomfort. This gentle method makes your orthodontic journey more pleasant and leads to better, long-lasting results. It’s just one of the ways we prioritize your well-being while creating your perfect smile.

Sensitivity in the Mouth

As your mouth adjusts to the braces, the insides of your cheeks and lips might feel tender or irritated from the brackets and wires. To ease this, we recommend using orthodontic wax to cover any areas that feel rough or uncomfortable. This wax creates a barrier between your braces and the soft tissues in your mouth, helping to prevent irritation. Every Hatcher & Frey location is fully equipped with the adjustment tools you need to make the transition easier. Don’t hesitate to ask a member of our team about orthodontic wax during your appointment!

Increased Salivation

You might notice an increase in saliva production as your body reacts to the braces as something new in your mouth. This is temporary and should subside within a few hours as you get used to them.

Feeling “Different”

Your braces might initially feel bulky or strange, and it’s normal to be conscious of how they feel against your lips and tongue. With time, your mouth will adapt, and they will start to feel more natural. You can try gently moving your lips and exploring the braces with your tongue to speed up this adjustment process.

Eating with Braces

One of the most immediate changes you’ll experience is the need to modify your diet, especially during the first few days as you adapt to your new braces. We recommend sticking to softer foods and taking smaller bites to avoid knocking off any brackets.

Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, like nuts, popcorn, and sticky candies, can damage your braces or exacerbate any initial sensitivity. Taking smaller, more careful bites than usual can help prevent any issues with your new hardware.

Tips to Make Your First Day Easier

Be Prepared with Supplies

Make sure you have orthodontic wax on hand to address any irritation right away. If you run out, don’t hesitate to contact our office for more. Keeping a small dental kit with you, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss threaders, can also be helpful throughout the day.

Manage Discomfort Proactively

Everyone’s pain tolerance is different, so it’s important to manage any discomfort in a way that works best for you. Alongside taking pain relievers, you can also use ice packs on the outside of your cheeks to soothe any soreness.

Keep Yourself Occupied

One of the best ways to take your mind off any discomfort is to stay busy. You can return to your usual daily activities, such as work, school, or hobbies, right after your braces are placed. Staying engaged will help the time pass quickly as you adjust to your new braces.

Plan Your Meals

Eating right after your appointment is a good idea because your teeth may not be sore yet. This gives you an opportunity to enjoy a hearty meal before transitioning to softer foods for the next few days.

Your Hatcher & Frey Journey Begins

Getting braces is a significant step toward achieving the smile you’ve always wanted, and the first day is just the beginning of that journey. By following these tips and being patient with the process, you’ll soon find that your braces become a natural part of your routine. If you have any questions or concerns during your first day—or at any point in your treatment— reach out to us! We’re always here to help you with any advice, reassurance, or support you need.