What to Expect With Your New Braces
Embarking on your orthodontic journey with braces is an exciting step towards achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. At Park Lane Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Austin, TX, we’re committed to making your experience with braces as smooth and successful as possible. From understanding what to expect to mastering the care of your braces, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
What to Expect During Life With Braces:
- Adjustment Period: Initially, you may experience some discomfort as your teeth and mouth adjust to the braces. This is normal and should ease within a few days. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief can help manage any soreness.
- Regular Appointments: You’ll have scheduled appointments for adjustments, typically every 4-6 weeks. These are essential for progressing your treatment and ensuring the best outcome.
- Duration of Treatment: The length of time you’ll need to wear braces varies depending on individual needs, but on average, it ranges from 18 months to 3 years. Patience and adherence to care instructions are key to achieving your new smile.
Caring for Your Braces:
- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial while wearing braces. Remove food particles and plaque by brushing after every meal and flossing daily using tools like floss threaders or water flossers designed specifically for braces.
- Eating with Braces: Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage your braces. Opt for softer foods and cut larger items into smaller pieces to protect your braces and ease eating.
- Protecting Your Braces: Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities to protect your braces and mouth from injury.
Dealing with Discomfort and Minor Issues:
- Managing Discomfort: Mild pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help manage any discomfort or irritation from braces rubbing against your cheeks or lips.
- Addressing Minor Issues: If you encounter issues like a loose bracket or poking wire, contact our office for advice or to schedule a repair appointment. Many minor issues can be temporarily managed at home until you can visit us.
Maintaining Your Healthy New Smile After Braces:
- The Big Reveal: Once your braces are removed, you’ll see your new, beautiful smile for the first time, a rewarding moment for all the dedication and care you’ve invested.
- Retention: To maintain the results achieved with braces, you’ll transition to a retainer. Wearing your retainer as directed is crucial to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Schedule a Free Orthodontic Consultation
At Park Lane Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we believe in the transformative power of a smile. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and support throughout your orthodontic journey. From your first consultation to the day your braces come off and beyond, we’re here to ensure your experience is positive and your results are lasting.
Ready to start your journey to a straighter smile or have questions about life with braces? Call us today to schedule your free orthodontic consultation. Our office is conveniently located in the Mueller area of Austin, TX, and treats patients of all ages in our community. Let us be your partner in achieving the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Contact Park Lane Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
1900 Aldrich St, Suite 160 Austin, TX 78723
Phone: (512) 582-8218
Email: parklanedentalortho@d4c.com
Hours of Operation
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Parking Information
Park Lane validates garage parking for up to 2 hours! Street parking is also available for $2 per hour with a 3-hour maximum (please note that we are not able to validate street parking).
McBee District Parking Garage
1826 McBee St.
Enter from McBee Street or Robert Browning Street.
Simond Parking Garage
1601 Robert Browning St.
Enter from Robert Browning Street or Simond Avenue.
