Wondering if having braces hurts? Here, we help you understand how you can avoid pain during and after having braces.
Braces as a Cosmetic Dental Treatment
Orthodontic treatments, like braces or clear aligners, are serious treatments involving a significant investment of time and effort. They correct common oral health issues like jaw and tooth misalignments.
Treatment with braces can also have a significant cosmetic benefit by straightening your smile. Many people use braces to correct misalignments that don't hamper oral function, but cause them to feel self-conscious.
Are you considering straightening your teeth for cosmetic purposes? You may be wondering if the treatment is worth the pain or discomfort.
Does having braces hurt?
Patients will commonly ask whether braces hurt or not. The honest answer is "yes." The application itself won't hurt, but mild pain or discomfort will begin after the brackets are joined by the wire.
Patients report soreness and discomfort the first few days after their braces are placed or are adjusted. Getting braces is a big change to your mouth, so your lips and cheeks may need to get used to moving around them
You may be happy to know that modern braces are designed to exert gradual and continuous pressure on your teeth to minimize pain.
What can I do to relieve any pain or discomfort?
Here are some tips to help relieve soreness and discomfort that you may feel in the days after application or adjustments.
Eat softer foods
Soft foods can avoid pain associated with chewing after adjustments or the application of your braces. These include soups, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and yogurt.
Use special wax or silicone
As your cheeks and lips get used to having wires and brackets in your mouth, they may become irritated. Relief wax or silicone can be applied over your braces to create a smooth surface and relieve discomfort.
Take over-the-counter pain medication
After your braces are finally removed, you may feel some soreness in your teeth and mouth still. Over-the-counter pain medications can help relieve this soreness.
Chew sugar-free gum
One little-known tip is that chewing sugar-free gum can help! It increases blood flow to your oral structures, which may alleviate discomfort. Any initial discomfort after adjustment or placement of braces should quickly fade.
Are you having braces places and are wondering about how much pain is involved in the process?
An orthodontist will be happy to speak with you about braces treatment and managing discomfort during and after.
