Getting braces is an exciting milestone towards straighter, healthier teeth. However, once you start treatment, the journey begins. Adjustments to your braces are essential during treatment to make sure you are progressing the way we need you to. If you’re not sure what to expect when getting braces, this step-by-step guide can help you feel more prepared and confident.
Why Do Braces Need To Be Adjusted?
Braces in Lakefield are effective because they create gentle pressure to gradually move teeth to their planned position. Over time, the pressure needs to be adjusted so that the teeth can continue to be redirected. If braces couldn’t be adjusted, then, after years of treatment, patients wouldn’t get to their desired outcome, and even if they completed every adjustment perfectly, they would not move teeth in the way that was planned.
These appointments are also beneficial for the orthodontist to check progress and make any corrections to any problems that have developed, including loose brackets, broken wires, or other difficulties.
What Happens Before The Adjustment?
When you arrive for your appointment, the first question your orthodontic assistant will ask will be if you have had any pain, discomfort, or issues with your braces since your last visit. They may also ask if you have been following the suggested care instructions, such as not eating any hard and/or sticky foods and chewing on ice.
After these initial questions are completed, the assistant will need to see inside your mouth and assess how your teeth and gums are functioning. This is a crucial part of figuring out what type of adjustments are to be made.
At this time, the process becomes much less scary for many patients seeking braces near you, because they will finally know what’s going to happen.
Step 1: Take off the elastic bands
If you have rubber bands with your braces, the first step your dentist near you or orthodontist is going to perform is to remove them. This is quick and painless. Rubber bands are changed at every appointment because they lose their “stretch” and do not provide as much strength anymore.
Step 2: Inspecting the wires and brackets
After the rubber bands have been removed, the orthodontist would inspect your archwire (the thin wire running across your teeth) and brackets (the small metal or ceramic pieces glued to your teeth) to see if there is any damage, such as bent wires or broken brackets.
If there was damage to the wire, the orthodontist would replace it. If the wire is okay, the dentist would tighten the wire to move your teeth back into the proper position.
Step 3: Changing the Archwire (If Needed)
Sometimes, your orthodontist will change your archwire to a slightly thicker or differently shaped one. This is a normal part of treatment and helps move your teeth more efficiently. You might feel some tightness after this step, but it usually goes away in a day or two.
If you’re getting dental braces for the first time, it’s good to know that this feeling is a sign your braces are doing their job.
Step 4: Adding or Adjusting Rubber Bands
Some patients require rubber bands (elastics) to resolve bite issues. If you require elastics, your orthodontist will show you how to place them. Your orthodontist might also determine a different thickness or place the rubber bands differently during the visit.
Rubber bands play an important part in ensuring that your teeth fit together properly when your orthodontic treatment is completed.
Step 5: Final Check and Cleaning Instructions
Before you leave, your orthodontist will take a final look to make sure the braces are properly positioned and fitted and not uncomfortable in your mouth. The orthodontist will also provide instructions on how to clean your teeth while wearing a lot of braces because it is easy for food to get trapped in wires and brackets.
If you are looking for a dentist in Lakefield who guides you through each of these steps, then these regular appointments also ensure you do not feel unsupported through the process.
Does It Hurt After an Adjustment?
It’s normal to feel some soreness or mild pain after a braces adjustment. This happens because your teeth are being gently moved again. The discomfort usually lasts only a couple of days and can be managed with soft foods, cold drinks, or over-the-counter pain relief.
Your lips and cheeks may be sore as well, if there are new wires or elastics rubbing them. You can use orthodontic wax to cover these areas to avoid sores.
How Long Does an Adjustment Appointment Take?
Most brace adjustment appointments take about 20–30 minutes. If you need extra work—like replacing broken brackets—it may take a bit longer. These visits are usually quick, so it’s easy to fit them into your schedule.
Tips for Making the Process Easier
Here are some simple tips to make your adjustment appointments more comfortable:
- Eat before your appointment because your teeth might be sore afterward.
- Brush and floss well before going in so your orthodontist has a clean surface to work on.
- Bring your questions—whether it’s about pain, brushing, or foods to avoid.
- Follow instructions carefully, especially if you’re given new rubber bands or cleaning tools.
Why Regular Adjustments Are So Important
When you don’t attend your dentist’s regular adjustment appointments, this can hinder how quickly your treatment progresses; you may not shift your teeth appropriately, or you could even damage your braces! Every time you come in for an adjustment appointment, we are able to push your treatment along and work to achieve the results that you want.
Orthodontic treatment is a collaborative effort on the part of both you and your dentist. When you keep all your appointments, you allow yourself the best chance to have the best outcome.
Are You Ready to Take the Next Step Towards Your Smile Goals?
Lakeflower Family Dental, your local dentists in Bradford, ON, make it easy and stress-free for dentists to make braces adjustments. We have full support from a friendly staff that will be with you every step of the way, helping and supporting you and answering any questions you may have. Book your next visit today and continue moving your smile in the right direction!
