Getting braces is a big life change. It is going to change the way you look and the way you eat. The following are a few things you can do to help prepare for the application of the braces and life with braces:

Prepare Yourself Emotionally

You probably feel nervous, afraid, and possibly even reluctant to get braces. The best way to overcome these feelings is to think about what you will get out of the braces in the end. The braces are going to drastically improve the appearance of your teeth, which will help to boost your confidence. Plus, there are a lot of people who have previously had braces – even top-rated celebrities like Niall Horan, Emma Watson, Dakota Fanning, Gwen Stefani, and Tom Cruise.

Personalize Your Braces

If you aren't getting Invisalign and are getting metal braces, you will likely get to personalize your braces by choosing the color of the rubber bands that are being placed on the brackets. The colors of these bands can change each time you visit the orthodontist, which can help make things fun for you. So, think about what color you would like to choose. You may want to choose your favorite color, the color of your favorite sports team, your school's color, something seasonal like red and green for Christmas, or something else entirely.

Stock Up on Plenty of Soft Foods, Dental Wax, and Pain Relievers

Since your mouth is going to be a little tender for a few days once the braces are applied, you will need to eat soft foods. You need to make sure you have stocked up on these foods ahead of time so that you don't have to put yourself through going to the store after your appointment. The best foods to eat include yogurt, ice cream, mashed potatoes, smoothies, etc.

Don't forget to also get plenty of orthodontic wax from the orthodontist or the local pharmacy. This wax is applied on top of the wires to minimize the irritation inside the mouth while you are getting used to them. Plus, it can come in handy when a wire breaks loose and you can't get to the orthodontist immediately. While you're at the pharmacy, pick up some pain reliever to help ease any pain and discomfort that you might feel during the first couple of days. You may not need it, but it's better to be safe than sorry!

Understand How to Take Care of Your Teeth Afterward

Brushing and flossing your teeth with braces will be different than doing so without braces, so it may be a good idea to sit down with your orthodontist and ask for any special advice that he or she may have for you. You will want to pay extra attention to the spaces around the braces as food particles can get caught here and you don't want plaque to build up here. It's also a good idea to rinse with mouthwash after meals or even throughout the day to help keep your braces and teeth extra clean. When it comes to flossing with braces, your orthodontist may recommended a floss threader or a Waterpik.  

For more information, contact a company like Cobbe Dental & Orthodontics.