Your Complete Guide to the Braces Journey
Getting braces is a big step toward achieving a healthier, straighter smile — and it’s a journey that involves more than just the time you spend wearing brackets and wires. At Abari Orthodontics & Oral Surgery, we want every patient to feel confident and informed about what to expect from their orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea of braces or are preparing to get yours removed, understanding what happens before, during, and after braces can help you feel more in control and make your experience as smooth as possible.
Before Braces: Preparing for Treatment
The first step in your braces journey is meeting with an experienced orthodontist. During your initial consultation at Abari Orthodontics & Oral Surgery, we’ll perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth, jaw, and bite alignment. This usually includes digital X-rays, photographs, and a 3D scan to help us build a personalized treatment plan.
Your orthodontist will discuss your goals, explain your treatment options (including traditional braces, ceramic braces, or even clear aligners, if appropriate), and answer any questions you may have. You’ll leave this appointment with a clearer understanding of what lies ahead.
In some cases, a bit of prep work is needed before braces can be placed. This might include:
- Dental cleanings
- Filling cavities
- Removing impacted or crowded teeth (sometimes including wisdom teeth)
- Placing spacers to create room between molars
Your general dentist and orthodontist may work together to ensure your teeth and gums are in the best condition for starting orthodontic treatment.
During Braces: Living with Brackets and Wires
- Placement Day: Getting braces placed is a pain-free process, though it may take up to two hours. The orthodontist will bond brackets to your teeth and attach an archwire that will guide your teeth into place over time. You’ll receive instructions on how to care for your braces and what to expect in the days ahead.
- Adjusting to Braces: The first few days after getting braces can bring some soreness or pressure, especially when chewing. This is completely normal and a sign that your braces are working. Over-the-counter pain relievers, orthodontic wax, and a soft-food diet can help ease the adjustment.
- Regular Adjustments and Check-Ups: Every 4–8 weeks, you’ll return to our office for an adjustment. Your orthodontist will tighten or replace the archwires and monitor your progress. These visits are essential to ensure your teeth are moving correctly and on schedule.
- Oral Hygiene and Braces Care: Keeping your teeth clean during treatment is especially important. Braces can trap food and plaque, increasing the risk of tooth decay or gum disease if not properly managed. Your braces care routine should include: brushing after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using an interdental brush or water flosser to clean around brackets and wires, daily flossing (a floss threader can help!), and avoiding sticky, crunchy, or hard foods that could damage your braces.
- Dealing with Minor Issues: It’s not uncommon to experience minor discomfort or issues during treatment, like a poking wire or a loose bracket. Our team is always available to guide you through simple at-home fixes or schedule a quick appointment if needed.
After Braces: Retention and Long-Term Care
- Braces Off Day: The day your braces come off is exciting, but it’s not the end of your orthodontic journey. Once your teeth are straight and your bite is aligned, we’ll remove your braces and polish your teeth to remove any remaining adhesive.
- Retainers Are a Must: After braces, your teeth need time to settle into their new positions. That’s where retainers come in. Your orthodontist will provide a retainer and give instructions on how often to wear it. Initially, this may mean wearing it all day, transitioning to nightly wear over time. Wearing your retainer as instructed is crucial — otherwise, your teeth could begin to shift back.
- Continued Oral Hygiene and Dental Care: Even after treatment, keeping up with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups is key to maintaining your results. Straight teeth are easier to clean and care for, but neglecting them can still lead to problems like cavities or gum disease.
Your Orthodontic Partner in San Dimas
At Abari Orthodontics & Oral Surgery, we know that choosing to get braces is a big decision. That’s why our team is here to support you at every stage — from your first consultation to your final retainer check. We use the latest orthodontic technology and a personalized approach to ensure you get the best results in the most comfortable way possible.
Whether you’re researching “braces near me” or ready to book a consultation, our experienced orthodontists are ready to help you take the next step. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward a confident, healthy smile.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
