How are Braces Put On? Step-by-Step Process of What to Expect

So, you’re thinking of getting braces. Or maybe it’s your kid who needs them. Either way, what exactly should you expect?

If you don’t have any experience with the wide world of orthodontics, then the process of getting braces put on can seem intimidating and maybe more than a little confusing.

Thankfully, we’re here to break down what’s involved in the process of getting braces put on.

While some pain and discomfort is associated with the process during installation and immediately thereafter, getting braces put on isn’t altogether complex once you know what’s involved.

What’s more, the benefits of braces far outweigh any potential drawbacks for the overwhelming majority of patients.

With that having been said, let’s talk a little bit about what you can expect when you or your little one has braces put on.

Pre-Installation Steps

Before you get braces put on, you’ll consult with an orthodontist to discuss any issues you may be experiencing, from an overbite to TMJ to self-consciousness due to crooked teeth.

Then, the orthodontist will examine your mouth and usually, take x-rays. Sometimes, physical dental impressions will be taken. Other times, digital impressions will be taken.

Lastly, a treatment plan will be prescribed, detailing where the orthodontist will put the braces, how long (approximately) you’ll have to wear them, and more.

All of this usually happens in at least two separate appointments to the orthodontist.

What to Expect When Getting Braces

What Are the Steps Required to Have Braces Put On?

Traditional braces are made up of three main components: brackets, archwires, and elastic bands. The brackets get affixed to the teeth with adhesive, but it’s the wires that apply the tension required to move the teeth into their eventual intended position. The elastic bands are what keep the archwires in place.

The procedure for getting braces put on is fairly simple, with four main steps relating to installing these three main components:

1. Cleaning and drying your teeth.
2. Applying adhesive to teeth to attach the brackets.
3. Installing the archwires into the brackets.
4. Then using elastic bands to secure them.

While this is the simplified version, here’s a little more in-depth version of what usually happens when getting traditional braces put on (note that the process for invisible braces and other types is different):

• The orthodontist installing the braces usually uses cheek retractors and a tongue piece – or other equipment to ensure that the tongue, cheeks, and any parts of the mouth with moisture stay away from the teeth where the brackets will be installed. It is extremely important to keep the teeth 100% dry to ready them for braces.
• Pressurized air is then used to dry the teeth completely otherwise the bracket installation could fail.
• The braces installer usually applies a slightly acidic etching liquid to the teeth to create a better for the glue to adhere to. This usually sits for 30 seconds or so and is then rinsed off.
• The teeth are dried again.
• The braces installer normally applies a thin layer of primer and thins it out with air.
• The orthodontist gathers all the brackets. Next, a composite or glue is applied to the back of the brackets one at a time and they are placed on the teeth.
• Bracket placement is checked to ensure that everything is correctly positioned according to the orthodontic treatment plan.
• A blue light or UV light is used to “cure” or “set” the bracket glue.
• Next, the braces installer puts the archwires in – the wire is what moves the teeth – and holds that in place by installing the elastic bands.

Getting braces off after treatment is completed is a fairly simple process and shouldn’t take more than 45 minutes.

How Long Does It Take to Get Braces On?

It normally takes anywhere from around 45 minutes to an hour to get braces put on from the time you sit in the chair to the time you’re out the door, but this time can vary based on a multitude of factors, such as whether the glue sets the first time and how familiar the orthodontist is with the process.

Do Braces Hurt When You Get Them On?

Most people describe the process of getting braces put on as uncomfortable because they are adjusting to the pressure of the archwire being applied.

Depending on your pain tolerance, you may feel some pain. However, most people wouldn’t describe the process of getting braces put on as painful.

How Long Does Pain Last After Braces Are Put On?

Discomfort and/or pain following the application of braces may last for up to around a week with the first couple of days being the worst.

What’s more, as you get acclimated to the feeling of having metal brackets and wires in your mouth you may experience some minor cuts on your cheeks or tongue, as well as a feeling of pressure leading to soreness in both your teeth and gums.

Learn How to Care for Your Braces

Learn how to take care of your braces and brush your teeth with them, what to do if a wire pops out, and more, by heading to our informational page on getting started on your orthodontic journey.

Meanwhile, if you’re interested in learning about clear aligners or other types of braces that are less involved to have taken on and off than traditional braces, we invite you to head to our webpage on different types of braces.