If you have just started your orthodontic treatment with braces, you probably have questions about brushing your teeth, what food you can eat and which are best to avoid, initial discomfort, etc. As an orthodontist in Gran Canaria and Lanzarote, I will try to go over the most important points during your first week with braces:
It’s normal to be a bit uncomfortable during the first few days:
The movement of teeth is achieved through the application of mild forces which result in a series of cellular reactions related to the inflammatory process. It is because of this that it is normal to experience some discomfort, especially in the first few days, which will decrease over time. That’s why we recommend a softer diet in the first few days until you adapt.
2. Avoid “hard” foods:
To prevent discomfort, in the first few days, we should avoid foods with a harder consistency that require more intense chewing forces and can cause greater discomfort. Here’s the section of the website where we discuss this topic in depth: https://luisgonzalezortodoncia.com/en/eating-with-braces/
3. Orthodontic wax:
Orthodontic treatment can cause sores and ulcers at the beginning of the treatment. The use of orthodontic wax to cover the brackets and wires helps protect the oral tissues and minimize friction.
4. Brushing your teeth with braces:
Clean teeth and inflammation-free gums are vital to prevent discomfort. Oral hygiene is essential, and if you have braces, it is even more important. Therefore, when brushing your teeth, you should know how to do it correctly. Here is a link with a video at the bottom to guide you: https://luisgonzalezortodoncia.com/en/brushing-your-teeth-with-braces/
If you have any questions or need more information about orthodontics, do not hesitate to contact us. I am a specialist in orthodontics in Telde, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote. You can reach me through the following link: https://luisgonzalezortodoncia.com/en/contact/
We will be delighted to help you.
