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Most people get along with them quite well and without any additional aids after a week or two. However, some people are more sensitive than others to the appliances and may develop canker sores from these initial irritations.
To help with the initial adjustment period, first learn to avoid swallowing using a tongue thrust. If you find that your tongue is pushing at your teeth when you swallow, try the following technique. Bring your back teeth together as if you were closing your mouth, and with the upper teeth gently contacting the lower, try to swallow. You will find it a little difficult at first, but learning the correct way to swallow will be a great aid in minimizing irritation of the tongue.
Second, wax is given to you to use as needed to reduce irritation in areas of tenderness on your tongue. Don't overuse it or your mouth will never get used to the brackets.
Third, try to speak as much as possible and practice over enunciating at home. This will help you speak more clearly.
Fourth, eat foods the first few days which are soft and soothing: bean soup, chicken noodle soup, rice, mashed potatoes, soft bread, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches made with soft bread with the crust removed, fruit shakes, cottage cheese, applesauce, and Carnation Instant Breakfast or other meal replacers.
Finally, until you have adjusted to your new braces, don't plan special steak dinners or dinners out to fancy restaurants. Also remember that stringy vegetables, such as lettuce, can catch in the brackets and be an embarrassment. Practice eating at home, before dining out, to test how well you are doing. You'll be glad you did.
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