DAY 1
The first step toward your beautiful, new smile! Your braces go on, and you learn how to take care of them, including what you can do to get the best results. At this stage, you may experience pressure on your teeth and some discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the braces.
1 WEEK
After a week of having your new braces, you’ll start to become familiar with the brushing and flossing process. If you’re still experiencing pressure or discomfort, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide effective relief.
1 MONTH
By now, you’re used to your braces, and have become a brushing and flossing pro. You no longer experience discomfort–in fact, you barely even notice your braces!
6 MONTHS
You start to see huge changes in your smile as your teeth move into proper alignment. All you have to do now is keep them clean and healthy by brushing and flossing every time you eat. At this stage, you will have had two or three wire adjustments, but the discomfort is minimal.
12 MONTHS
Your teeth are getting straighter and straighter, and now it’s time to work on your bite. Elastics and specialized springs may be used to help align your teeth, and it’s important for you to follow your orthodontist’s specific instructions to get the best results.
18-24 MONTHS
Your treatment is almost done! It’s an exciting time, but you must be patient while final corrections and details are addressed. This is the most important phase, because these finishing touches are what make your smile so special.