6 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Getting Braces

Getting braces is an exciting milestone on the path to a healthier, straighter smile! But if I could go back, there are a few things I’d love to tell my pre-braces self. From the little surprises to essential care tips, these lessons can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable for anyone considering braces.

In this blog, I’ll share six things I wish I’d known before getting braces so you can start your journey informed and confident.

1. Braces Require an Adjustment Period

When you first get braces, there’s an adjustment period where your mouth is getting used to the brackets and wires. This might mean some initial soreness or difficulty eating harder foods.

Tip: Stock up on soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help with any initial discomfort.

2. Oral Hygiene Becomes More Involved

I wish I’d known how much more time I’d need to dedicate to cleaning my teeth with braces. The brackets and wires create additional places for food and plaque to hide.

Best Practice: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss threaders, and an interdental brush to keep your braces clean. An electric toothbrush and a water flosser can be game-changers for maintaining oral hygiene.

Common Mistake: Don’t skip flossing—it’s essential for keeping your gums healthy throughout treatment.

3. Avoiding Certain Foods is Non-Negotiable

I learned the hard way that sticky, hard, and crunchy foods are not braces-friendly. They can damage brackets and wires, leading to extra trips to the orthodontist.

Best Practice: Say goodbye to chewing gum, popcorn, and hard candies for now. Cut foods like apples and carrots into smaller pieces before eating.

4. Wax is Your Best Friend

Braces can sometimes irritate the inside of your cheeks and lips, especially at the beginning. I didn’t know how much orthodontic wax would save me from discomfort.

Tip: Always carry a small container of wax with you—it’s easy to apply and makes a big difference in comfort.

Wondering if braces are right for you? Schedule a consultation with Dominion Orthodontics today to explore your options and learn more about the process!

5. Regular Appointments Are Key to Success

Orthodontic appointments for adjustments and monitoring progress are essential. Skipping these can delay your treatment.

Best Practice: Add your appointments to your calendar as soon as they’re scheduled to ensure you don’t forget.

6. The Results are 100% Worth It

The most important thing I wish I’d known is just how rewarding the end result would be. Every bit of effort during treatment leads to a beautiful, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.

Tip: Take progress photos along the way—it’s motivating to see how much your smile improves over time.

Getting braces is a journey filled with small adjustments and big rewards. Knowing what to expect can make the process smoother, and with the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your dream smile.

At Dominion Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a comfortable and successful braces experience.

Ready to start your braces journey? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your best smile!

Dominion Orthodontics: Helping you achieve a smile worth celebrating!