Get the Care You Need With Dr. Jacklyn Kurth
At Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics, we know that braces can feel like a big adjustment, but the benefits of braces far outweigh any challenges. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, braces are an investment in a healthier, straighter smile—and they don’t have to interfere with your daily life. In fact, with the right care and a little preparation, you can enjoy a smooth, successful treatment experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about life with braces, from managing discomfort to maintaining your oral hygiene routine. We’ll also share tips to help you feel comfortable and confident during your treatment.
Ready to learn how you can make the most of your time with braces? Call us today at (650) 525-9440 for our Foster City office or (650) 592-4850 for our Belmont office to get started. We also proudly serve patients coming from Redwood City, San Mateo, and Burlingame, CA.
What to Expect When You First Get Braces
Your first appointment with Dr. Jacklyn Kurth will mark the beginning of your journey toward a straighter smile! During the initial visit, we’ll take precise measurements, X-rays, and impressions to ensure your braces are customized to meet your unique needs. Once your braces are placed, it’s normal to feel some pressure and slight discomfort, but this is temporary as your teeth start to shift into alignment.
Here’s what you can expect in the first few days after getting your braces:
- Slight Discomfort: You may experience some mild soreness in your teeth and gums as they adjust to the new braces. This is completely normal and typically lasts for 1–2 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help ease the discomfort.
- Mouth Irritation: Your braces may irritate the inside of your cheeks and lips. Orthodontic wax can help alleviate this discomfort by providing a smooth surface over any areas causing irritation.
- Diet Adjustments: You’ll need to avoid certain hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces. Foods like popcorn, nuts, gum, and caramel should be avoided during your treatment.
Caring for Your Braces
Proper care is essential to ensure that your braces work effectively and to avoid delays in your treatment. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
Brushing and Flossing
With braces, you’ll need to be extra diligent about your oral hygiene. Food can get trapped in your brackets and wires, making it easier for plaque and bacteria to build up, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. To improve your oral health:
- Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily using special orthodontic floss or a floss threader to clean between the brackets and wires.
- Use an interproximal brush (a small, cone-shaped brush) to clean around your brackets and wires where your toothbrush might not reach.
Avoiding Certain Foods
As mentioned earlier, sticky, hard, and chewy foods should be avoided, as they can damage or break your braces. Instead, it’s best to prioritize soft foods for good oral hygiene. Be careful with the following:
- Hard foods: Candy, nuts, ice, and hard vegetables like carrots can break or damage your braces.
- Sticky foods: Gum, caramel, and chewy candies can get stuck in your braces, causing plaque buildup and increasing your risk of cavities.
- Chewy foods: Bagels, pizza crusts, and tough meat can put excessive pressure on your braces and affect the treatment process.
Wear Rubber Bands as Directed
If Dr. Kurth prescribes rubber bands (elastics) as part of your treatment, it’s essential to wear them as instructed. Rubber bands help correct bite issues and improve the effectiveness of your braces. Be consistent in wearing them, and replace them regularly as recommended.
Managing Discomfort and Adjustments
Braces can cause some discomfort, especially after adjustments. Your mouth may feel sore, and you might notice some changes in your bite as your teeth shift. Here’s how you can manage the discomfort:
- Pain Relief: Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to help alleviate soreness.
- Orthodontic Wax: Apply orthodontic wax to any areas of your braces that are irritating the inside of your mouth.
- Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing with warm saltwater can soothe your gums and reduce irritation.
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your face can help reduce swelling and provide relief from discomfort.
Adjusting to Your New Smile
It’s important to remember that some discomfort is normal and temporary. As you continue with your treatment, you’ll adjust to the braces, and they will begin to feel like a natural part of your daily routine. Plus, the more you care for your braces and follow Dr. Kurth’s instructions, the quicker you’ll see positive results!
Social Considerations During Treatment
While braces can initially feel like a big change, they don’t have to interfere with your social life or self-confidence. Here are some ways to feel more comfortable during your treatment:
- Stay Confident: Embrace the journey toward a straighter smile. Your braces are working hard to give you a healthier, more beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.
- Practice Speaking with Braces: At first, speaking with braces may feel a bit awkward, especially if you have a lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain words. Over time, your mouth will adjust, and speaking will become easier.
- Comfortable Smiling: Don’t be afraid to smile! Many people find that braces actually improve their smile over time, and the end result will be a smile you’ll be proud to show off.
- Social Support: Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, talking to friends or family members who have braces can help you feel more at ease. They can share their experiences and offer advice on coping with your treatment.
How Long Will I Need to Wear Braces?
The length of time you’ll need to wear braces depends on your individual needs. Most patients wear braces for 12 to 24 months, but this can vary based on the complexity of your treatment and how well you follow Dr. Kurth’s instructions. Once your braces are removed, you may need to wear a retainer to maintain your new smile and prevent your teeth from shifting back.
How We Support You Through Your Braces Journey
At Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics, we’re committed to making your experience with braces as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Our team is here to provide you with:
- Ongoing support and guidance throughout your treatment.
- Personalized care to address your unique needs.
- Regular check-ups to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
- Expert advice on caring for your braces and managing any discomfort.
We understand that life with braces requires adjustments, but we’ll be here to guide you every step of the way! Dr. Jacklyn Kurth is happy to answer any questions you may have about your orthodontic treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
The length of your treatment depends on your specific needs, but most patients wear braces for 12 to 24 months. Your orthodontist will provide a more accurate timeline during your consultation.
You may experience some discomfort, especially after adjustments, but it’s typically mild and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help ease any discomfort.
You’ll need to avoid certain hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces. However, you can still enjoy most of your favorite foods by cutting them into smaller pieces and being mindful of what you eat.
Yes, you’ll likely need to wear a retainer to ensure that your teeth stay in their new positions. Your orthodontist will discuss your retainer options with you once your braces treatment is complete.
Ready to Start Your Journey to a Beautiful Smile?
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile, Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics is here to help. Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, we offer a wide range of options to make your treatment as comfortable and effective as possible.
Call our California dental offices today at (650) 525-9440 for our Foster City office or (650) 592-4850 for our Belmont office to schedule your consultation. Let’s get started on your journey to a beautiful new smile! We also proudly serve patients coming from Redwood City, San Mateo, and Burlingame, CA.