So I'm getting braces next week (finally, after like forever waiting) and my friend gave me this random tip that actually makes sense. She said to put lip balm on right before the appointment because your lips get super dry from holding your mouth open for ages. Seems obvious now, but I never thought about it, you know? Anyone else got some random braces hacks or tips they figured out along the way?
"She said to put lip balm on right before the appointment because your lips get super dry from holding your mouth open for ages."
Wish someone had told me that one—I remember my lips feeling like sandpaper afterward. Another thing I learned the hard way: stock up on soft foods ahead of time. Everyone says "eat ice cream," but honestly, after a couple days, you'll crave something savory. Soups, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs... trust me, you'll appreciate having variety ready to go.
Also, don't underestimate how quickly those little wax strips run out. The orthodontist gives you some, sure—but it's never enough. A few packs from the drugstore can save you a late-night trip when brackets start irritating your cheeks (and they will).
One last tip: take a good selfie before your appointment. Sounds silly, but it's actually pretty motivating to track your progress over time. You'll be amazed at how things shift around—and having visual proof helps on days when it feels like nothing's changing.
Good call on the savory foods—I got so sick of pudding and yogurt after day two, haha. And yeah, those wax strips vanish fast... ended up cutting mine into smaller pieces just to stretch them out a bit longer.
Haha, smart move cutting the wax strips—I wish I'd thought of that earlier. I remember panicking when I ran out and resorted to chewing gum wrappers as a makeshift solution (spoiler: didn't work). Totally agree on savory foods, too. After day three of smoothies and applesauce, I was craving anything crunchy or salty. Eventually discovered mashed potatoes with gravy were a lifesaver... soft enough to eat comfortably but still felt like real food.
Cutting wax strips is genius, wish I'd known that earlier too. One thing I learned the hard way—don't underestimate rinsing with warm salt water. Sounds boring, but seriously helps with soreness and irritation, especially in the first week or two.
