Getting braces of any kind is a big adjustment. They are a cosmetic change but also impact a patient mentally, emotionally, and physically. Some people embrace the changes that skyrocket through their smile. Others take longer to manage the shifts. One thing your orthodontist can tell you for certain, regardless of your level of enthusiasm, is that patience will get you further than control in the world of orthodontics.
Patiently Adjust to Wearing Braces
The first order of business when it comes to wearing braces is to embrace the obvious – you have just made a big change to your life and it’s going to affect just about everything.
- Appearance. You will now have teeth covered by brackets, wires, and elastics. This is a big shift in how you see yourself but, if you’re patient, you’ll get used to it quickly. You won’t feel the need to hide your teeth when you smile or shy away from others seeing your braces. Plenty of your peers will be in the same situation.
- Speech. Braces don’t make a huge impact on speech, but as you adjust to them that first week you might spark a little lisp on a few words or struggle to everything out. Try not to be embarrassed – this change won’t last.
- Comfort. At first, braces will be uncomfortable and there will be adjustment appointments along the way when wires are tightened and shifts are made that cause discomfort again. Ask questions of your orthodontist so you can prepare for your orthodontic visits and learn what will happen each time. Not every visit results in painful movements, but some do. That’s when the big work is being done – shifting roots, twisting teeth, and closing gaps.
- Confidence. Braces work quickly, whether metal, ceramic, or clear. You will notice changes in the alignment of your teeth early on in your treatment, whether you’re looking at 18 to 24 months of wear time or longer. Seeing the transformation in real time is a powerful boost to the self-esteem.
Control What You Can and Accept the Rest
Total control is not possible with braces, but you do get to make some choices that affect how you feel about yourself. Namely, selecting the colors of your elastics at every orthodontic visit. You can choose the color combo that’s your favorite or celebrate the season. The rainbow is yours to design as you please. This visual representation is a nice bit of control to have.
If you’re someone who needs a bigger hand in how your teeth straightening goes down, talk to your orthodontist about Invisalign. Because the trays can be removed, you have the power to take them out at your leisure – just remember, wear time is critical to success in Invisalign. If you remove the trays too often just to try to control your look, you won’t achieve the necessary milestones to keep your progress moving and straighten your smile.
Get Used to Wearing Braces from Soleil Orthodontics
If you want to learn more about the process of wearing braces or Invisalign, schedule an appointment with Soleil Orthodontics in Woodinville, WA. It is our privilege to help you achieve a beautiful, straight, healthy smile and we will guide you through the waves of being an orthodontic patient.
