The pain associated with wearing braces is one of the main concerns of many patients. If you are also getting braces and worry about pain, it is good to know that you won’t feel much discomfort during the procedure. Your teeth and gums, however, will probably feel sore afterwards. This is because the mouth is not used to having foreign materials (metal, ceramic, or plastic) too close to the tissues.
Braces in action
Dental braces exert gentle force on the teeth to move them slowly through gum tissues in your mouth. The wires and the metal (or ceramic) braces cemented onto your teeth make gradual movements by adding pressure that push or pull the teeth. This can then make your gums and teeth sensitive, resulting in pain, especially if you bite into something solid.
Wearing and getting used to braces do hurt, but it is good to know that these aches and sores are just temporary. The side effects will subside after a few weeks and you are likely to notice positive changes in the alignment of your teeth and bite. The pain may cause some inconvenience in the first few days or weeks, but this shouldn’t stand in the way of having a healthy and beautiful smile.
The truth about pain
You are likely to feel pain and discomfort on the first of days of wearing braces. Its intensity, however, will depend on every patient or your level of pain tolerance. There are also some cases where the wires and brackets may have sharp edges that can add more pain or inconvenience. Townsville orthodontic clinics note that putting some dental wax or taking over-the-counter painkiller can offer relief.
Adjustment or getting your braces tightened can also cause discomfort. This is done several times during the course of the treatment, and is important for moving your teeth in correct positions. Adjustments apply new pressure to the teeth and gums, causing some aches and sores. Be reminded, however, that the pain at this stage is less intense and will subside after a few days.
You don’t need to worry
Braces pain, in general, is manageable. Every patient, furthermore, gradually adapts to wearing them and you will barely notice the braces after a couple of months. In fact, you are likely to feel happier with how these dental appliances are fixing your teeth’s crookedness. You may even wonder why it took you too long to get an orthodontic treatment.
If you’re having a hard time adjusting to braces, talk to your dentist. They can help you get through every stage of the treatment or give suggestions to manage the pain. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, inform them about the changes in your teeth and gums, or voice any concerns you have. Also, don’t forget to keep up with your adjustment appointments.
Should you be worried about braces pain? No, you don’t have to be. After all, discomfort is part of the process and not permanent. There are also a number of ways you can try to minimise the pain. The best thing you can do is to concentrate on your end goal and work with your dentist to make the process of teeth straightening as smooth as possible.
