Curious about the discomfort of wearing braces? Our dentists in Sydney Mines share valuable tips on minimizing pain throughout and after your braces treatment.
Braces as a Cosmetic Dental Treatment
Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, is an important dental procedure that requires a considerable amount of time and effort. It is necessary to address various oral health issues like misaligned teeth and jaws.
Apart from the oral health benefits, braces can also improve the appearance of your smile by making it straighter and more symmetrical. Some people choose to undergo orthodontic treatment for minor misalignments that don't cause any discomfort but do affect their self-confidence.
If you're considering straightening your teeth primarily for cosmetic reasons, you might be curious about the potential pain associated with the treatment and whether it's worth enduring.
Does having braces hurt?
Patients often ask us if getting braces hurts. The truth is, the process of putting on braces itself doesn't cause pain. However, you may experience mild discomfort or a little bit of pain after we attach the brackets to the orthodontic wire.
It's common for patients to feel some soreness or discomfort in the first few days after getting braces or when their brackets and wires are adjusted. Since getting braces is a significant change for your mouth, it may take a couple of weeks for your cheeks and lips to get used to having them.
The good news is that we use modern appliances and wires that apply gentle and gradual pressure to your teeth. This approach helps minimize any unnecessary pain.
Is there anything I can do to relieve pain or discomfort?
Here are a few tips to ease any soreness or discomfort you might experience in the first few days after getting or adjusting your braces.
Eat softer foods
Consider keeping a supply of gentle foods handy for post-appointments or when your teeth feel tender or sensitive after braces removal. Opt for softer options like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, or macaroni and cheese. These choices will allow you to sidestep the need to bite or chew with delicate teeth.
Use special wax or silicone
Your teeth and mouth are adjusting to being straightened with braces, elastic ties, and archwires. To alleviate discomfort on your inner lips and cheeks, you can apply relief wax or silicone over your braces to create a smoother surface.
Take over-the-counter pain medication
Once your braces are taken off permanently, you might experience slight discomfort in your teeth or mouth. To alleviate this soreness, many patients find relief by taking over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen, which can be found in brands such as Advil, Motrin, and others. Just make sure to check for any allergies before taking any medication.
Drink ice water or apply an ice pack
Cold temperatures can help alleviate the pain caused by braces. To reduce swelling, put an ice pack on the outside of your mouth. Additionally, drinking cold ice water can numb the area and provide relief.
Any discomfort experienced after getting or adjusting braces should subside soon.