braces – what you need to know

fitting

Your braces, whichever type you chose, are individually made to fit your mouth. Generally speaking, fitting a brace will take approximately 60 minutes (half an hour for each row).

wearing

Most patients experience minimal discomfort and speech interference. It is quite common to experience minor aching of the jaw or soreness of the tongue and lips after your brace is first fitted, or after your adjustment appointments.

But this will pass and you’ll be given instructions on how to care for, and adapt to your new brace. Remember, not all foods are brace-friendly; avoid sticky, chewy or hard foods while wearing your brace – unless you are wearing a removable aligner like Invisalign.

adjusting

You will need to have your braces adjusted every 6 – 8 weeks. This is to move the teeth into the desired position and create the smile you want. You won’t feel your teeth moving as it is a very subtle and gradual process that typically takes between 12 – 36 months.

Dependant on your choice of brace, elastic bands and/or brace wires may need to be changed at your adjustment appointments. After an adjustment, it is normal to experience mild discomfort, but it won’t take long for you to get used to the new pressure.

removing

Taking off a brace may be easier, quicker and far less painful than you think.

Your orthodontist will clip the curve on the back of the braces with specialist pliers, breaking the adhesive bond between the bracket and tooth. Each bracket comes off clean, leaving a layer of adhesive on the tooth which is easily buffed off the teeth, polishing the enamel as it’s removed.

What’s more, whichever orthodontic treatment you chose, the brace will not stain your teeth.