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What to Expect Your First Week of Braces Grants Pass, OR


Congratulations on starting your orthodontic journey! The first week of braces is an adjustment period, and it's much easier when you know what's normal.

Dr. Jon Harmon and the team at Robinson Orthodontics have guided Grants Pass families through this week since 2004.

Here's what to expect and how to stay comfortable.

Days 1–3: Adjusting to Your New Braces


Your teeth will probably feel fine when you leave our office. A few hours later, you'll likely notice mild pressure or tenderness as the wires begin gently guiding your teeth into place. For most patients, soreness peaks around the second or third day.

This is completely normal, and it means your braces are working.

How to Relieve Braces Soreness



•  Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed on the label.
•  Enjoy cool foods and drinks like smoothies, yogurt, or ice water to soothe tender gums.
•  Rinse with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) to calm irritated spots.
•  Press orthodontic wax over any bracket that rubs your cheeks or lips.

Days 4–7: Feeling Like Yourself Again


By the end of the first week, most patients find the soreness has faded. The inside of your cheeks and lips will toughen up, and you'll get more comfortable eating and talking.

Many people are surprised at how quickly braces start to feel like part of their routine.

What Can You Eat the First Week of Braces?


Choosing the right foods protects your braces and keeps you comfortable while your teeth are tender.

Soft Foods to Enjoy



•  Mashed potatoes, pasta, and mac and cheese
•  Scrambled eggs, yogurt, and oatmeal
•  Soup, smoothies, and applesauce
•  Soft fish, meatloaf, and well-cooked vegetables

Foods to Avoid With Braces



•  Hard foods: nuts, ice, hard candy, and popcorn
•  Sticky foods: caramel, taffy, and gum
•  Chewy foods: bagels, jerky, and tough meats
•  Foods you bite into: whole apples and corn on the cob (cut them into small pieces instead)

How to Keep Your Teeth Clean With Braces


Food gets trapped around brackets easily, so good hygiene matters from day one. Brush after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush, angling the bristles above and below each bracket.

Floss daily using a floss threader or water flosser, and use an interdental brush to clean between wires and brackets. A clean smile now means healthier teeth when your braces come off.

When to Call Your Grants Pass Orthodontist


Minor issues are common in the first week, and most are easy to fix. If a wire pokes your cheek, cover it with orthodontic wax until you can see us.

Call our office if a bracket comes loose, a wire breaks, or you have pain that doesn't improve after a few days. We're always happy to answer questions, big or small.

Start Your Smile Journey at Robinson Orthodontics


Dr. Harmon offers traditional braces, SmartClip™ self-ligating braces, and Invisalign® for children, teens, and adults in Grants Pass and the surrounding Rogue Valley. Have questions about your first week, or ready to get started?

Call (541) 441-8288 or visit us to schedule your complimentary consultation.

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First Week of Braces: What to Expect | Grants Pass, OR
Just got braces in Grants Pass? Dr. Jon Harmon explains what to expect your first week: soreness relief, soft foods, cleaning tips, and when to call us!
Robinson Orthodontics, 124 NE Evelyn Avenue, Grants Pass, OR 97526-1427 + (541) 441-8288 + robinsonorthodontics.net + 9/18/2026 + Page Keywords: orthodontist Grants Pass OR +