Categories: Braces

How Often Do Braces Need to be Tightened?

When you are first getting braces on, you might be a bit concerned about what to expect. Although it’s not a scary process, you will experience some soreness or pressure. The mechanics are meant to align your teeth together. They do so by slowly adjusting where your teeth need to be to maximize your smile and functionality. While this isn’t painful, you should be aware of what to expect when getting them. 

The process of getting them

After having an initial discussion with your dentist about your alignment options, you will choose what you’d like. Each is a different price point, and many offer low visibility options, making patients more comfortable with their smiles as they get adjustments. Once you are getting them on, it will take about one to two hours. Typically, small rubber-band like rings are put around some of your teeth. It is normal to experience some pressure during this time. Then, glue is applied to the brackets that will be placed on your teeth and connected with wires. Within the next few hours, you can expect some soreness, as your teeth are beginning to adjust and are adapting to the change.

Tightening

You can expect to have frequent visits with your dentist to ensure that your alignments are going well and meeting your treatment plan. There may be times where adjustments may take longer or shorter, depending on how quickly your teeth adjust to the pressure and change. The process of tightening your braces is meant to slowly apply tension to your teeth to pull them to the correct position. Frequently, the time frames that you expect to wear them change in accordance with the progression of movement.

How often do they need to be tightened?

Usually, every few weeks, you will need to have your dentist tighten them. This allows enough time for your teeth to acclimate to the difference. At your appointment, your dentist will also look at the elastic bands and quality of the metal to ensure going accordingly. If you experience soreness, you can rectify this with an over-the-counter pain killer. You may also get a soft wax from your provider that can aid in any irritation along the inside of the mouth, which can help protect against sores or irritation.

Maintenance

Be cautious of the foods you eat, as things like popcorn or hard candy can be a bit too rough and can cause damage to them. Even gum can be risky. Speak with your provider about what foods to absolutely avoid. If you experience soreness, try to aim for softer foods like yogurts, fruits, or oatmeal. Make sure to clean them often with a brush to get in between the teeth, ensuring you remove any particles of food that can harvest unwanted bacteria. With proper maintenance of your braces and appropriate tightening by your dentist, you’ll enjoy your new smile in no time!

Request an appointment here: https://www.bracesbyabbadent.com or call Braces By Abbadent at (563) 484-5202 for an appointment in our Dubuque office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Clear Braces in Dubuque, IA.

 

Recent Posts

Who Is A Good Candidate For Ceramic Braces?

Considering getting braces? Read on to learn more about ceramic braces. For individuals who want to straighten their teeth discreetly, ceramic braces are an excellent choice. They are a great method for straightening teeth without attracting too much attention. Metal braces were previously the standard for orthodontic therapy, but they are visible on the patient's…

Teeth Straightening Options From Your General Dentist

Malocclusion or misalignment of teeth can severely impact your overall oral health and self-esteem. Many people opt for treatments to address various misalignment issues. Teeth straightening treatments have become more efficient and cost-effective over the years.Here are a few teeth straightening options you might want to consider if you are interested in straightening your smile: Clear…

Reasons To Consider Clear Braces For Teens

We all want our children to have straight, healthy teeth; clear braces for teens (or invisible braces) for teens are an excellent solution compared to traditional braces. Thankfully, modern dentistry has made major improvements in braces technology that makes them more effective and more comfortable, and invisible. Now there’s no longer a need to worry…

Consider Clear Braces For Straighter Teeth

Clear braces can help you feel better about fixing your teeth because your whole treatment process will be somewhat hidden. If you have been thinking about getting braces but do not want to spend the whole length of your treatment with a mouth of metal, clear braces might be the best choice for you.While clear…

Aaron Rauen

Share
Published by
Aaron Rauen

Recent Posts

4 Tips for Knowing Whether Ceramic Braces Are Right for You

Curious about ceramic braces? Read on to learn more about this teeth-straightening option.

1 month ago

Invisalign Treatment Can Align Your Teeth

In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at how this popular treatment works and…

2 months ago

Adult Braces Before and After: What to Expect When They Come Off

Find out what life after braces is like and why you may want to consider…

3 months ago

What Are Corrective Braces?

Corrective braces are ideal for achieving an attractive smile as they can create a symmetric…

4 months ago

Who Is a Good Candidate for Ceramic Braces?

For individuals who want to straighten their teeth discreetly, ceramic braces are an excellent choice.

5 months ago

Is Invisalign® Good for Teeth Straightening for Adults?

Find out about the importance of teeth straightening, as well as the benefits that come…

6 months ago