What to know About Braces and Discomfort
If you are considering orthodontic treatment you may be wondering, do braces hurt? It’s natural to have concerns. Each individual handles discomfort differently, and pain thresholds are different depending on the person.
Let’s look at the facts around what makes braces hurt and what can be done to reduce the aches, both during an orthodontic treatment and after.
What Causes Braces to Hurt?
The discomfort of getting braces typically stems from two main factors:
Pressure on Your Teeth
Braces work by applying continuous pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into a straighter position. This shifting process can lead to soreness and discomfort in both your teeth and gums as they adjust to the new alignment.
Irritation with Soft Tissue
The brackets and wires of your braces can cause irritation to the soft tissues in your mouth, such as the inner cheeks and lips, due to constant friction. While your tongue is usually not directly affected, it may feel restless as it adjusts to the presence of foreign objects in your mouth.
These are natural responses that occur as your mouth adapts to the braces, and with time, discomfort tends to subside.
How Long Do Braces Hurt?
The initial discomfort from braces typically lasts up to a week, with soreness being most noticeable during this time. After that, the discomfort will significantly decrease. You may still experience some minor irritation for a few more days, but it will be much easier to manage as your mouth adjusts.
When your braces are tightened, you might experience some discomfort again, but this usually only lasts for a few hours rather than days. Over time, your mouth and gums will gradually become more accustomed to the braces, helping you build resilience along the way.
Taking proactive steps to manage the discomfort can make a big difference in your overall experience and help ease the adjustment process.
Pre-Appointment Preparation Tactics for Handling Discomfort
Taking the time to prepare mentally and physically before your appointment can make a world of difference in how you experience it. By planning ahead and setting yourself up for success, you can minimize discomfort and anxiety. Here are some tips for what to do before your appointment:
Be Well-Rested and Relaxed
Some people tend to worry when they have to do something they don’t want to do. This is a mistake. Being anxious or fatigued may increase the discomfort you’ll experience during the appointment. Deep breathing, meditation, and naps beforehand will help you arrive psychologically prepared.
Have a Pain Reliever You Trust on Hand at Home
Even if you normally never take pain relief tablets, having them available in case of discomfort reduces the anxiety that comes with adapting to temporary soreness.
Purchase Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax forms a cushion to prevent gum irritation while eating.
Post-Appointment Tactics for Dealing with Discomfort
If you’ve prepared correctly for your appointment, most of the work is already done. Here are a few tips to follow up:
- Eat Soft Foods. This will give you tender mouth less trouble than consuming anything crunchy.
- Use Ice Packs. Ice packs applied to the cheeks and jaw can hinder swelling and soreness.
- Saltwater Rinses. Saltwater rinses kill bacteria, providing extra oral hygiene while reducing inflammation and pain from mouth irritation.
Following these steps will help you feel better.
Get Your Braces Applied by the Professionals at Edge Orthodontics
Get on the path to a healthier, straighter smile with Edge Orthodontics! With locations in Camrose and Lloydminster, our team has the skills and resources to transform your smile. Contact us to schedule a consultation today!