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Life with braces or aligners

What you can expect from orthodontic treatment

Discover how to manage daily life with braces or aligners, including care tips, eating habits and handling discomfort. Get clear answers to common orthodontic questions and understand what to expect from your treatment.

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Treatment Caring for your smile Getting Braces FAQs Find a Doctor Doctor registration
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Treatment
Caring for your smile
Getting Braces
FAQs
Find a Doctor
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What does orthodontic treatment feel like?

Embrace the journey to your radiant smile! Orthodontic treatment is brief compared to the lifelong joy of your new smile.

Wondering about lifestyle changes? They're minimal! Whether you have aligners or braces, you can dine out, stay active and play sports.

Check out our tips below and always check with your doctor for complete care guidelines.  

Comfort

Whether you choose clear aligners or braces, expect an initial period of adjustment. Aligners might feel foreign in your mouth, but it's essential to wear them for at least 22 hours a day.


Braces can make your teeth feel bulkier, with some sensitivity for about a week. Be gentle with yourself, opting for soft foods and avoiding extreme temperatures. The journey to your best smile has begun, and any initial discomfort will soon be a distant memory. 

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Speech

With clear aligners, you might notice a slight lisp initially, but as you get used to them, your speech will naturally improve. You can also try slowing down your speech and enunciating clearly to help adjust faster.


Traditional braces may have less effect on speech, with any changes settling within a week. As you grow more comfortable with your treatment, discomfort should fade, boosting your confidence on the way to that stunning smile you're aiming for.

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How do I take care of my smile during orthodontic treatment?

Brushing

Good brushing habits are key to preventing plaque, maintaining healthy gums and avoiding stains on your teeth. With braces, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean gently around each bracket. Use a "tree brush" to check behind your archwire as well. For aligners, brush your teeth after eating and before reinserting them, using fluoride toothpaste and an interdental brush for tricky spots. Above all, follow your orthodontist's instructions to achieve a good brushing technique.

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Flossing

Flossing is essential - not just for a clean mouth, but to prevent plaque and gum discase, especially when you have braces or aligners. With braces, use floss threaders to navigate wires and reach the gum line. For aligners, floss every time before reinsertion, Remember, flossing is your future smile's best friendl 

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Getting started is easier than you may think

The consultation

Connect with your doctor to discuss your unique needs and personalized treatment options. Bring any pertinent records from your dentist if you can.

Before treatment

Visit your dentist for a clean-up and to address any oral issues before starting orthodontic treatment.

Your first visit

Your treatment journey begins with x-rays, photos and possibly spacers. Next, an accurate impression of your teeth is taken via a physical material or a digital scan.

Starting treatment

Brush and floss before your bonding appointment. Relax and let the orthodontist work their magic.

Your follow-up appointments

Your doctor may make adjustments at your follow-up appointments or just check your progress. Minor discomfort post-adjustment is normal. 

Your last appointment

Braces or aligners come off in minutes, your orthodontists will remove any residual adhesive and polish your teeth — revealing your best smile! Next, you may get a retainer to help your teeth stay put. Continue regular oral care and enjoy your well-earned new look!

FAQs

Get clarity on commonly asked questions 

Explore our FAQ section for clear answers on life with braces or aligners. From cleaning tips to food choices, we cover all you need to know for a comfortable orthodontic experience. 

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Find a Doctor

Locate a provider near you and get started on your journey to discovering your new smile.

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