Just got them on yesterday...

[bob78h]

Hi guys yeah just got braces yesterday life sux...
any suggestions on what to eat/how to manage things now?
I'm trying to stay off pain meds but couldn't take it so i took some ibuprofen...

suggestions appreciated, thanks.

[Zoso]

Stay hydrated.
Don't be shy to use wax if you feel like the brackets are chafing.
Don't be shy to use ibuprofen if your teeth really ache.

Above all - don't worry - your mouth will get used to the braces quite quickly, and you'll need neither wax nor pain relievers (at least if you stay hydrated).

Do try to eat normally though - trying to chew will help your teeth stop being sore all the sooner. You should be able to get back to a normal diet within a couple of weeks.

Don't forget to maintain excellent dental hygiene - you don't want white spots (due to decalcification) when the braces come off. Flossing requires gadgets (self-threading floss, floss threaders, or such) and a bit of practice, but remains very important. And adding a good fluoride rinse once/day (after brushing, and last thing before bedtime is best) is a good idea. Get some proxy brushes too (tiny little "Christmas tree" brushes) as they're great for cleaning carefully right around the brackets.

And consider starting a blog (you can do so here if you wish) and keeping pictures - it's a great way for you to track your own progress.

[mikeg]

hang in there. It gets MUCH easier. The first week is getting use to them.

Zoso gave you some great tips.

I'll add to the keeping blog and pictures. I wish I would of done this more when from my first day. It is so much better to be involved in your treatment than to really soley on your ortho for every step of the treatment.

You're going to love your new teeth!

[Zoso]

Ditto on the regrets.

[bob78h]

Ok just wondering, is gum ok? Like sugarless, specifically 5? I've been chewing Stride without issues so just curious... Thanks.

[Sunny]

The ortho's I work for recommend chewing sugar free gum ... the type that's recommended for 'most' dental work. Chewing is great for helping your mouth feel good!

Good luck!