Starting fixed braces is a big milestone for your teen and for you. New routines, new foods to avoid, and a new smile on the way. In this guide, we explain exactly what happens when your teen gets their braces fitted, how to support them through the first few days, and how to keep everything on track from start to finish. You will also find clear answers to common parent questions, including the best age to start and whether braces are the right choice for your child.


At Eden Orthodontics in Mt Eden, Auckland, our Specialist Orthodontist, Dr Rachel Smith, and our friendly all-female team provide modern, personalised care using metal and ceramic braces, plus fully customised LightForce™ 3D braces. We combine detailed planning with warm support, so your family feels informed and confident at every step.

The fitting day, what actually happens

A braces fitting appointment usually takes about 40 minutes. We carefully clean and prepare the teeth, then place the brackets and attach the first archwire. Your teen will leave with full instructions, a starter hygiene kit, and our team’s tips for comfort and care.

It is normal for teeth and cheeks to feel tender for a few days as the teeth begin to move. Over-the-counter pain relief taken as directed, soft foods, and orthodontic wax for any rubbing spots are helpful. Encourage your teen to take it easy on day one, plan soft dinners, and have a cool drink or smoothie ready after the appointment.

Choosing between metal, ceramic, and LightForce™ options

  • Metal braces: Durable and effective, suitable for a wide range of cases and lifestyles. Great for sporty teens who want strength and simplicity.
  • Ceramic braces: Work like metal, with brackets designed to blend in more with the teeth for a lower profile look.
  • LightForce™ braces: Fully customised 3D-printed brackets designed for each tooth. The precise fit supports efficient tooth movement, which can mean fewer adjustments and a comfortable experience.

The first week, comfort and confidence

  • Manage tenderness: Mild soreness usually peaks within 48 hours, then settles. Soft foods like yoghurt, mashed veg, pasta, and soups keep mealtimes easy.
  • Use wax early: If a bracket or wire rubs, dab the area dry and place a pea-sized piece of orthodontic wax over the spot.
  • Salt water rinses: Warm salt water swished gently for 30 seconds, two to three times daily, can soothe cheeks and gums.
  • Stay on schedule: Take pain relief as directed, not just when it hurts, for the first day or two.
  • Cheer them on: A small celebration helps. Many families mark day one with a movie night or a favourite soft treat.

Eating with braces, what to avoid and what to enjoy

For the first few days, choose soft foods. As comfort returns, your teen can eat a normal, healthy diet with a few key exceptions that protect brackets and wires.

  • Avoid hard and sticky foods: Toffees, hard lollies, nuts, popcorn, crusty bread ends, and ice.
  • Cut foods into smaller pieces: Apples, carrots, and crusty pizza are easier and safer when sliced or softened.
  • Keep sugary snacks low: This reduces the risk of plaque build-up around brackets.

Daily care, keeping teeth and braces clean

Good hygiene protects enamel and keeps treatment on track.

  • Brush after every meal using a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Angle bristles above and below the wire, spending 2 to 3 minutes each time.
  • Use interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean around brackets and under the wire.
  • Consider a fluoride mouthwash at night if recommended by our team.
  • Keep regular dental check-ups with your family dentist during treatment.

We provide hands-on demos, so your teen leaves confident about brushing and flossing around their braces.

Appointments and progress checks
You will visit us for regular adjustments, usually every 6 to 10 weeks. These visits are short and focused. We check progress, make precise changes, and answer questions. Many families find it helpful to keep a shared calendar, so school and sport schedules align with appointment times.

What if something breaks or feels sharp?
If a bracket comes loose or a wire is poking, call us. Many small issues can be made comfortable at home with wax until we see you. If the wire slides, you can gently nudge it back with the eraser end of a pencil, or cover it with wax. Do not cut the wire at home unless we advise it.

When will we see results?
Most teens notice subtle alignment changes within weeks. Visible progress builds motivation, and we encourage celebrating little milestones. Total treatment time varies with each smile, but your teen’s specific plan and time frame will be clearly explained at the start and updated as we go.

Should I let my child get braces?
If your child has crowding, spacing, a deep bite, crossbite, or jaw misalignment, braces can improve function, oral health, and confidence. Braces are a proven, reliable option for teens who need continuous guidance to achieve complex movements. If your child prefers a removable option and is responsible about wear time, we can also discuss Invisalign® for selected teen cases. We will help you weigh the pros, responsibilities, and lifestyle fit for your family.

What is the best age to get braces for kids?
Most teens start comprehensive treatment between ages 11 and 15, once most adult teeth are in. That said, early assessments are valuable. We recommend a first orthodontic check around age 7 to 10, especially if crowding or bite issues are visible. Early guidance can reduce complexity later. If you are searching for the best age to get braces in NZ, there isn’t a single age that works for every child. In Aotearoa New Zealand, the right time to start orthodontic treatment depends on dental development and growth, not the school year. Dr Smith will assess your child’s tooth eruption and growth to recommend the best age for braces.

Life after braces, retainers keep the smile set
When braces come off, retainers hold teeth in their new positions while bone and ligaments stabilise. Your teen may receive a fixed retainer behind the front teeth, a clear removable retainer, or both. Consistent wear is essential. We will give a personalised plan and simple tips to make it part of their routine.

Costs, payment options, and planning
Treatment fees vary with case complexity and appliance type. At your consult, we outline costs clearly and provide interest-free payment plans or paid-in-full discounts to suit your budget. If you are researching costs, our guide covers the cost of braces in New Zealand in more detail.

Why families choose Eden Orthodontics

  • Specialist care: Dr Rachel Smith is a Specialist Orthodontist with extensive experience in teen treatment.
  • Modern options: Metal, ceramic, and LightForce™ braces, plus clear aligner solutions such as Invisalign® and Angel Aligners where appropriate.
  • Supportive experience: A warm, welcoming clinic in Mt Eden with clear communication and flexible scheduling.

Next steps
If your teen is ready to begin, or you are still exploring options, book a consultation with our team. We will explain your teen’s orthodontic needs, show you suitable appliances, outline timelines and fees, and answer every question. You will leave with clarity and a plan, and your teen will know exactly what to expect on fitting day and beyond.

Summary
Braces are a positive, structured way to guide your teen’s smile into healthy alignment. Expect a focused 40-minute fitting, a few tender days, and steady progress with good care and regular check-ins. Choose the appliance that suits your teen’s goals and lifestyle, support them with simple routines, and commit to retainers at the end. At Eden Orthodontics, we are here with expert treatment and caring guidance from day one to retainers. When you are ready, we would love to help your teen take that confident first step.