Are you wondering if having braces hurts? Here, our dentists explain how to avoid pain during and after having braces.
Braces as a Cosmetic Dental Treatment
Orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners are serious dental treatments that generally involve a significant investment of time and effort. Orthodontic treatment area necessary to correct a variety of oral health conditions and disorders, from tooth misalignments to jaw structure issues
However, treatment with braces can also have significant cosmetic benefits; specifically, a straighter, more symmetrical smile. Many people use braces to correct minor misalignments that don't cause them any discomfort or inconvenience, but which do make them feel a little self-conscious.
If you are considering straightening your teeth for primarily cosmetic purposes, you may be wondering if the treatment is painful, and whether the pain is worth it.
Does having braces hurt?
One of the most common questions we get from patients who are anxious about getting braces is, 'Do braces hurt?
Our honest answer is always that the application itself won’t hurt, though you may feel some mild pain or discomfort after we join the brackets with the orthodontic wire.
Many of our patients find that they experience some amount fo soreness or discomfort after their braces are places or their brackets are adjusted. Getting braces placed is a huge change for your mouth, cheeks and lips, and you may need a few weeks to adjust to moving your mouth around this new structure.
You’ll be relieved to know that the appliances and wires we use are modern, and designed to exert light, gradual, continuous pressure on your teeth so as not to cause undue pain.
What can I do to relieve any pain or discomfort?
Here are some tips to help relieve any soreness or discomfort you may be feeling in those first few days after your braces are applied or adjusted:
Eat softer foods
You may want to consider stocking up on softer food to eat after appointments and if your teeth are sensitive or sore after your braces are removed. Some good examples include mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, yogurt, soups and anything that helps you avoid crunching down or chewing lots with your newly sensitive teeth.
Use special wax or silicone
Your teeth and mouth are getting used to being realigned - and to having braces, elastic ties and archwires to contend with. Special relief wax or silicone can be applied over your braces to create a smooth surface and help relieve any irritation on your inner lips and cheeks.
Take over-the-counter pain medication
After your brace are finally removed, it isn't unusual to feel some soreness in your mouth or teeth. some patients find that over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen help to relieve soreness.
Drink ice water or apply an ice pack
Cold temperatures can do wonders for braces pain relief. Reduce inflammation by applying an ice pack to the outside of your mouth. You can also drink a nice, cold glass of ice water to numb the area.
Though you may feel some discomfort in the days after braces are placed or adjusted, this should quickly fade.