La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – If you’ve ever wondered how braces are put on, orthodontist Dr. Robert Gire happily explains the process of putting on braces for potential patients.
Quick Notes:
- The entire process takes about an hour
- Putting on braces is pretty quick, and painles
- After a few days, most people don’t remember there are braces on their teeth!
“The idea of getting braces may make orthodontic patients a bit anxious,” says Dr. Gire. “I encourage patients to ask questions before their appointment so they’ll know what to expect. The entire process takes about an hour, and then you’ll be on your way to the smile you’ve always wanted.”
Steps to Putting on Braces
The first thing your orthodontist and his staff will do is ensure your teeth are as clean as possible. You want to start your treatment with clean and debris free teeth, so your orthodontist’s staff will take the time to make your teeth shine. They will then place a “strong toothpaste” to the front surfaces of the teeth, allow it sit on the teeth from 15 to 30 seconds, and then it’s rinsed off well. The teeth are then thoroughly dried. Part one of the glue is applied to the teeth, lightly dried, and then a bright blue light is used to “set” the glue. Part two of the glue is applied to the back of the brackets and then the brackets are placed on the teeth. Once again, the blue light is used now to set the second part of the glue and brackets into place.
Once the brackets are in place, the orthodontist will place the archwire in the brackets and then secure it with elastic bands or the doors on the brackets will be closed (depends on the type of braces you select. At Gire Orthodontics, we have many options and all the options have advantages and disadvantages. Our doctors and treatment coordinators explain the difference at the complimentary consultation.) You can personalize your treatment by choosing the colors of the elastic bands, assuming you select the traditional braces option.
First Days in Braces
“Putting on braces is pretty quick, and painless,” says Dr. Gire. “Your teeth and mouth will likely need a few days to get used to the braces. Braces aren’t meant to be a punishment. We want you to do enjoy the foods that you like, but you need to learn how to eat them. We recommend sticking to soft foods for the first day or two, and you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine to relieve any soreness if necessary. We’ll provide orthodontic wax to use on the areas that seem a bit sensitive to the lips and cheeks.”
After a few days, most people don’t remember there are braces on their teeth! It may take a bit longer for some and shorter for others. Additionally, here are a few things to remember: Some may notice that their teeth feel like they are loose. This is nothing to worry about. The teeth actually do have to become loose to move into their new positions. Some may notice that their bite feels different. Again, that’s normal as well. Since braces are moving the teeth, a “new bite” will be achieved toward the end of treatment. Some may notice some sensitivity as the teeth move. Once again, that’s normal. As the teeth move, parts of the teeth that were normally not exposed to the oral environment (likely due to crowding and overlap of the teeth), may become exposed and elicit some sensitivity. This phenomenon is transient and will go away after a few days.
If you have questions about the placement of braces, the types of braces, and or life in braces, whether before or during your treatment, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Gire and his staff. They are always available to address questions or concerns. Call 562-690-1199 (La Habra) or 909-393-9911 (Chino Hills).