What to Expect When Getting Braces

Getting braces can be a big change for some people. Most patients wonder what they can eat, how long the process will take, how much the braces will hurt. You probably have a lot of questions too. Here are a few things to help you know what to expect when getting braces.

Things to Do Before You Get Braces

Before you get braces you should do a few things. Your orthodontist will let you know if there is anything specific they need you to do, but here is a general list that will get you ready for braces.

Get Your Teeth Cleaned

Start with shiny clean teeth. Your dentist will make sure your teeth are prepped for braces and they will clean your teeth to give the braces a clean surface to adhere to.

Brushing is a little more difficult with braces, so take advantage of wire-free brushing while you can.

Eat Your Favorite Foods

Eat all the candy and hard foods you want just before you get braces. You’ll have to take a break from some foods during your orthodontic treatment, so eat them while you can. Check out our list of foods to avoid with braces if you’re wondering what you should stock up on.

Take a Before Picture

You’ll be glad you have it when your treatment is done. It’s nice to be able to reference the before picture so you can see how far your smile has come. Just a quick selfie will do.

Don’t Stress!

Braces won’t change your life that much. There’s no need to worry about how much your life might change after you get braces.

How Long Does it Take to Get Braces Put On?

This depends on your orthodontist and what kind of braces you are getting, but it usually takes 1–1.5 hours to get braces put on.

During that appointment, we will prepare your teeth for braces and attach your brackets, wires, and bands to your teeth.

How Long Do Braces Hurt?

Your teeth will hurt for about a week after you get your braces on. The pain will go away, though, and your mouth will feel normal again soon.

You might feel pain each time you get your braces adjusted throughout your treatment. That is normal as well. In between appointments, your braces should be relatively pain-free.

How Long Will Treatment Take?

The length of treatment is different for every single patient. Some patients can have braces for as little as 6 months and some can have braces for several years. It depends on how far your teeth need to move and how much you comply with your orthodontist’s instruction.

Your orthodontist will give you an estimated length of treatment before they put your braces on. When you miss appointments and don’t wear the bands and treatments you are supposed to wear, then your treatment will take longer. If you comply with their instruction, then your treatment will go much faster.

Contact Hansen Orthodontics

Hansen Orthodontics is an orthodontic office in Las Vegas, Nevada. We have locations around Las Vegas and Henderson and we are happy to accept new patients. Contact us today if you are looking for a Las Vegas orthodontist!

What other questions do you have about what to expect when getting braces? Ask them in the comments below!