Getting braces is a big step, no matter your age. It's exciting because you're on your way to a better smile, but it can also feel overwhelming. The good news? With a little preparation, the transition will be much smoother. Here's what you need to know before getting braces. 1. Get Mentally Prepared Feeling a little nervous? That's completely normal. The best way to ease your anxiety is to know what to expect. Your orthodontist will explain everything during your consultation, but you can also do your own research. Look up stories from people who have had braces, watch videos, and ask your orthodontist any questions you have. The more you know, the more confident you'll feel. 2. See Your Dentist First Get your teeth and gums examined for any indications of decay or gum disease https://www.periony.com/treating-moderate-to-severe-periodontal-disease-in-nyc/ by your regular dentist before setting up an initial appointment with an orthodontic dental specialist. Your dentist should do a thorough oral examination, which includes X-rays, to ascertain the position of your teeth. It's critical to choose the most appropriate treatment plan and have an open dialogue about your therapy options. 3. Start Good Oral Hygiene Habits Braces require extra care, so it's a good idea to get into the habit of brushing and flossing properly before your appointment. If you're due for a professional cleaning, schedule one before getting your braces put on. This will help ensure the brackets adhere properly to your teeth. 4. Take a “Before” Picture You might not love your current smile, but trust us—you'll want a before-and-after comparison once your treatment is complete. Take a clear photo of your teeth before you get braces. As time goes on, you'll be able to see the difference, and it'll be a great reminder of how far you've come. 5. Stock Up on Braces-Friendly Supplies Braces can cause some initial discomfort, so having the right supplies on hand will make the adjustment easier. Here's what you might need: - Orthodontic wax – Helps prevent irritation from brackets rubbing against your cheeks. - Over-the-counter pain relievers – Can help ease soreness after adjustments. - Soft-bristled toothbrush – A gentle way to keep your teeth clean without irritating your gums. - Floss threaders or a water flosser – Makes flossing easier with braces. - Braces-friendly foods – Stock up on soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup for the first few days after getting your braces. 6. Explore Your Options Unsightly metal braces used to be the only option for many parents who also had braces as children. However, there are several options available now, with ceramic and Invisalign being only two of them. There are other treatments and payment methods available as well. A free consultation may be scheduled to determine what is best. 7. Plan for Follow-up Visits Braces aren't a set-it-and-forget-it kind of thing—you'll need regular checkups to keep everything on track. Every few weeks or months (depending on your plan), your orthodontist will make adjustments to keep your teeth moving in the right direction. It's not something you want to skip. So, grab your calendar, set reminders, and make sure you plan ahead for any time off work or school. Staying on top of these visits is what gets you to that perfect smile. The bottom line Always remember that you will look terrific with your new braces on. Wearing braces means that you will have a straight, brilliant, and healthy smile in the near future. Before getting your braces, make sure you do as much study and preparation as you can so that your treatment process is smooth and trouble-free.