What to Expect When Getting Braces as a Teen

Getting braces as a teenager can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. Braces aren’t just about achieving a straighter smile—they also contribute to better long-term oral health and confidence. With some preparation and an understanding of what to expect, the braces journey can feel a lot smoother. Here’s everything teens and their parents need to know about getting braces, from the initial appointment to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.

Why Braces Matter in the Teen Years

The teenage years are an ideal time to correct misaligned teeth and bite issues, as the jaw is still growing, which can make orthodontic adjustments quicker and more effective. Braces address a range of issues such as:

• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
• Jaw alignment issues

Braces improve not only the appearance of the smile but also reduce the risk of dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw discomfort.

1. The Initial Consultation

Before getting braces, you’ll start with a consultation appointment with your orthodontist. During this visit, the orthodontist will:

• Examine your teeth and jaw structure
• Take x-rays and possibly 3D scans to see the teeth in detail
• Discuss treatment options like metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners
• Answer questions about the process, expected duration, and cost

The orthodontist will create a customized treatment plan based on your dental needs. For most teens, traditional metal braces are the go-to choice, though some may opt for ceramic braces if they want a more discreet option.

2. Getting Braces Put On

The day you get your braces is a big milestone. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens:

Step 1: Cleaning and Drying

Your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and dried to ensure that the braces adhere correctly.

Step 2: Applying the Brackets

The orthodontist will place a small amount of bonding adhesive on each tooth and attach a bracket to each one. These brackets are the foundation of the braces and will guide the teeth into their new positions.

Step 3: Connecting the Wires

Once the brackets are in place, the orthodontist will insert a wire that runs through the brackets. This wire exerts gentle pressure on the teeth, guiding them into proper alignment over time. Small rubber bands, called ligatures, hold the wire in place.

Step 4: Choosing Ligature Colors

Many teens find it fun to select different colors for their ligatures. You can change the colors during each appointment, allowing you to match them with holidays, school colors, or simply your favorite colors.

The process is typically painless and takes about 1-2 hours. You may feel some pressure as the braces are applied, but it won’t be uncomfortable.

3. Adjusting to Life with Braces

Once you have your braces on, it will take a few days to adjust. Here’s what to expect in the first week:

Initial Soreness

You may feel some soreness or mild discomfort as your teeth adjust to the new pressure. This is normal and should subside within a few days. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen, can help ease any pain.

Eating with Braces

During the first few days, it’s a good idea to stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, pasta, and soup. Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods, which can damage your braces. As you get used to your braces, you’ll be able to expand your food choices, but some foods (like popcorn and chewing gum) should be avoided altogether.

Speaking with Braces

Some teens notice a slight change in their speech as they get used to the new brackets and wires. This usually resolves within a few days as your mouth adapts to the braces.

Caring for Your Braces

Good oral hygiene is crucial with braces to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Be prepared to:

• Brush after every meal to keep food particles from getting stuck in the brackets and wires.
• Floss daily, using special flossers or a water flosser designed for braces.
• Use an orthodontic toothbrush and possibly an interdental brush to clean around the brackets.

4. Regular Orthodontic Adjustments

Throughout your treatment, you’ll visit the orthodontist about every 4-8 weeks for adjustments. During these appointments, the orthodontist will:

• Tighten the archwire to keep the teeth moving in the right direction
• Change your ligature colors, if desired
• Check your progress and make any necessary modifications to your treatment plan

Adjustments may cause mild soreness for a day or two, similar to the initial placement of your braces. Sticking to soft foods and taking a pain reliever can help ease any discomfort.

5. Common Challenges with Braces and How to Handle Them

Braces are a commitment, and there can be some challenges along the way. Here are common issues and tips for managing them:

• Loose Brackets or Wires: If a bracket or wire becomes loose, contact your orthodontist. They may recommend coming in for a repair or using orthodontic wax as a temporary fix.
• Sores in the Mouth: Braces can cause sores on the cheeks, lips, and tongue, especially in the beginning. Orthodontic wax, applied to the brackets or wires causing irritation, can provide relief.
• Food Stuck in Braces: Carry a small dental kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss picks to clean your braces after eating.

6. What to Expect When the Braces Come Off

After months or even years of wearing braces, the day will finally come when you get them removed. Here’s what to expect:

• Removing the Braces: The process is simple and painless. The orthodontist will clip the brackets and polish off any remaining adhesive on your teeth.
• Wearing a Retainer: Retainers are essential for keeping your teeth in their new positions. Your orthodontist will provide a custom retainer and instructions on how often to wear it. Some retainers are removable, while others may be fixed behind your teeth.
• Oral Care After Braces: Once your braces are off, focus on maintaining your beautiful new smile. Brush and floss regularly and schedule routine dental checkups to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Braces Journey

To help your braces journey go as smoothly as possible, here are some additional tips:

• Stay on Schedule: Attend all your scheduled orthodontic appointments to keep your treatment on track.
• Use Orthodontic Wax: If you feel any discomfort or irritation from the brackets or wires, apply orthodontic wax to the areas causing trouble.
• Avoid Certain Foods: Sticky, hard, and chewy foods can damage your braces and prolong treatment time.
• Keep Your Teeth Clean: Braces can trap food and plaque, so make sure to brush and floss regularly to avoid cavities and gum issues.
• Wear Your Retainer as Directed: After your braces come off, wearing your retainer as directed by your orthodontist is key to maintaining your results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I play sports with braces?
A: Yes! Wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect your braces and teeth while playing sports.

Q: Will braces hurt?
A: Braces don’t usually hurt, but you may experience some soreness after getting them put on and after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease any discomfort.

Q: Are there any age limits for getting braces?
A: There are no age limits for braces. Teens, children, and adults can all benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Q: How long will I need to wear braces?
A: Treatment time varies depending on your individual needs, but most teens wear braces for 18 to 24 months.

Q: Can I whiten my teeth with braces?
A: It’s best to wait until after your braces are removed to whiten your teeth, as braces can make it difficult to achieve an even color.

The Takeaway

Getting braces as a teen is an exciting step towards a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles. While it may take some time to adjust to your new braces, the journey is well worth it. From the initial consultation to the day you get them removed, every stage of the braces experience contributes to better oral health, enhanced confidence, and a smile you can be proud of.

If you’re ready to start your journey with braces, contact Bright Smiles Dentistry & Orthodontics at (678) 941-5151 to schedule your consultation. Our team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring you have the information and support needed for a successful and comfortable braces experience.