Getting braces is an exciting first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Whether you're a teen embarking on your first orthodontic journey or an adult exploring options, this guide walks you through the entire process—from consultation to retainers. Here's a comprehensive overview of what to expect when getting braces.
1. The Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive exam. During this appointment, the orthodontist will take digital scans, X-rays, and photographs to assess your teeth and jaw alignment. This data helps build a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
You'll discuss objectives, timelines, and costs, and walk through available options—traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners. Learn more about all of our orthodontic services.
2. Preparing for Braces
Before braces are placed, it's crucial to ensure a healthy foundation. Patients may need dental cleanings, cavity fillings, or gum treatments prior to orthodontic work. This ensures that the mouth is in optimal condition for appliance bonding.
It's also a good time to discuss dietary adjustments, oral hygiene habits, and what to expect during the bonding process.
3. Bonding the Brackets
On the day your braces are placed, the orthodontist will:
- Clean and dry your teeth
- Apply adhesive and bond brackets
- Thread archwires through each bracket
- Secure wires with ligatures or self-ligating clips
The entire procedure takes about one to two hours. Most patients experience mild pressure afterward, which typically eases within a day or two.
4. First Weeks of Adjustment
In the initial days following placement, you'll likely encounter:
- Soreness or tightness in teeth and gums
- Minor discomfort on cheeks or lips as they adapt to hardware
- Temporary changes in speech
These effects are normal and indicate that the braces are gently guiding your teeth into position. Over-the-counter pain relievers, soft foods, and orthodontic wax for brackets are commonly recommended to alleviate symptoms.
5. Regular Adjustment Appointments
From this point, you’ll visit your orthodontist every 4–8 weeks for adjustments. During these appointments, your provider will:
- Adjust or replace archwires
- Change ligatures (elastic ties)
- Check progress via digital scans
These visits ensure your teeth continue to move according to plan. Many modern practices offer shorter appointment times thanks to advanced bracket systems like self-ligating braces.
6. Oral Hygiene and Dietary Guidelines
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist will recommend:
- Brushing after every meal using a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
- Using interdental or floss-threaders to clean under wires
- Rinsing with fluoride mouthwash
- Avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage braces
These habits help prevent cavities and protect your braces from breakage.
7. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Broken brackets, loose wires, or popped ligatures are common. Don’t panic! Most issues can wait until your next appointment, but if discomfort or poking occurs, using orthodontic wax and a soft toothbrush can help. Your orthodontist’s office will guide you on urgent versus routine repairs.
8. Mid-Treatment Progress
By midway through treatment, you'll likely notice visible changes:
- Straighter teeth and better alignment
- Improved bite function
- Enhanced comfort during eating
Maintaining all scheduled appointments and following your orthodontist’s instructions ensures the best results. If aligners were part of your treatment plan, you will have received trays in advance according to your schedule.
9. Finishing Up: Debonding Day
When the orthodontist determines your braces have done their job, you’ll arrive for debonding—when hardware is removed. The process involves:
- Painless removal of brackets and wires
- Polishing off residual adhesive
- Final teeth cleaning for a smooth finish
The result? A beautifully aligned smile you’ve worked hard to achieve.
10. Retainer Fitting & the Retention Phase
Straightening your teeth is just the beginning. To keep them in place, you’ll be provided with retainers. These may be:
- Removable retainers (worn full-time initially, then nightly)
- Fixed retainers (bonded behind the front teeth)
Retention is crucial: irregular wear or non-compliance can lead to shifting of teeth—often called “orthodontic relapse.”
11. Post-Braces Care
After braces, you'll switch to a simplified oral hygiene routine, focusing on both cleaning and retainer maintenance. Regular checkups help you retain your results and ensure ongoing dental health.
12. Monitoring Long-Term Stability
Even years later, occasional retainer checks may be suggested to ensure long-term stability. Orthodontists are committed to lifelong smile care—even after braces come off.
Why Every Step Matters
Each stage of this journey is designed to support your smile and oral health. From thorough diagnostics to the retention phase, every detail plays a crucial role in achieving lasting results.
Ready to start your braces journey? Explore our range of orthodontic services or schedule your initial consultation for personalized guidance.
FAQs on Getting Braces
How long does the entire process take?
Treatment time varies, typically 18–24 months for most cases.
Does it hurt to get braces put on?
Most patients experience mild pressure, not pain. Discomfort usually fades in days.
Can I eat normally with braces?
Yes—with modifications. Avoid hard, sticky foods and cut crunchy items into pieces.
How often should I brush?
Brush after every meal, with extra care to clean around brackets, plus nightly flossing.
What if a bracket breaks?
Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges and contact your orthodontist for guidance.
Can I play sports or instruments?
Absolutely—just wear a mouthguard and allow a brief adjustment period for new braces.
Will braces affect my speech?
You may experience a temporary lisp, which usually improves within days.
How often do I change ligatures?
Ligatures or rubber bands are typically changed at each adjustment visit.
What happens if I lose my retainer?
Contact your orthodontist immediately. Replacement retainers can be printed quickly from saved digital models.
How can I keep my teeth straight after braces?
Wear your retainer as instructed—daily at first, then nightly—to prevent relapse.
This step-by-step guide provides a clear picture of what to expect when getting braces. From bonding day to post-treatment retention, every moment is carefully guided to help you achieve—and keep—a beautiful, healthy smile.