Do Braces Hurt? What to Expect When You Get Braces

Questions and worries regarding the possible pain associated with beginning an orthodontic journey with braces are natural. Many people have wondered, “Do Braces Hurt?” While it’s true that wearing braces might cause some pain, it’s important to remember that it’s only temporary.

When you know what to expect throughout the tightening process and how to handle any pain that may come, you can confidently embrace your orthodontic change. In this article, we’ll talk about getting braces, dealing with the discomfort they cause, and how orthodontic wax may help.

What Should One Do When Getting Braces

When embarking on an orthodontic treatment journey, understanding what to expect during the process can alleviate braces pain and discomfort. From the initial placement day to subsequent follow-up appointments, managing braces pain and employing helpful techniques like orthodontic wax and pain relievers can ease the transition into wearing braces.

Placement day
On the day of braces placement, patients may experience mild discomfort as the orthodontist carefully attaches the brackets to the teeth and secures the wires.

This discomfort is manageable and should subside within a few days. Sticking to soft foods during this time is advisable to minimize any potential irritation.

2-3 days after placement
After a couple of days, the teeth and mouth may still feel tender. During this phase, orthodontic wax can be applied to the braces’ brackets and wires to reduce friction and alleviate potential sore spots.

Patients may also find relief by applying a cold or ice pack to the outside of the mouth for short periods.

Five days after placement
Around five days after getting braces, any initial braces pain or discomfort should start to diminish significantly. The mouth will begin adjusting to the presence of braces, making it more comfortable to eat and speak.

Orthodontic appointments
Subsequent orthodontic appointments are a crucial aspect of the treatment process. The orthodontist will adjust the braces during these visits, which might cause discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken before the appointment to manage any discomfort.

Additionally, the orthodontist may provide instructions on using rubber bands or other orthodontic appliances, which might lead to mild discomfort initially.

Dealing with discomfort
Throughout the orthodontic treatment, some discomfort may arise after braces are tightened. Pain relievers can be used during such times per the orthodontist’s recommendations. Applying orthodontic wax to areas that rub against the cheeks or lips can also relieve braces pain.

For those who experience discomfort from sharp wires, gently pushing the wire away from the affected area with a finger or cotton swab may offer temporary relief until the next orthodontic appointment.

5 Ways to Stop Brace Pain

It is normal to feel pain or discomfort from your braces, particularly when your teeth are realigning and adapting to new orthodontic items like rubber bands. The discomfort associated with braces may be managed in several ways to make your orthodontic treatment go more smoothly.

Gargling with Saltwater
A warm saltwater solution to rinse the mouth may help alleviate swelling and pain. Combine a teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water, gargle for 30 seconds, and then spit out to get rid of bad breath. To get relief, do this many times a day.

Eating Techniques
Bracket discomfort may be alleviated by modifying how you eat. Reduce the force exerted on your teeth and braces by chewing food by cutting it into smaller, more manageable pieces.

If you want to prevent straining one part of your mouth too much when chewing, it’s best to use both sides of your mouth.

Soft Food Diet
The pain of having braces may be reduced by eating a soft diet. Eat soft, easily digestible meals such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, soups, and the like in the days after an adjustment or during times of elevated sensitivity.

You may adjust your braces more comfortably and reduce the likelihood of discomfort by avoiding tough, crunchy, or sticky meals.

Cold Compress or Ice Pack
A cold compress or ice pack may do wonders for discomfort and irritation after bracing tightening. Place the cold pack on the outside of your mouth and hold it there for temporary relief.

In the first few days following an adjustment, this might be extremely useful when the mouth is still adapting to the changes.

Orthodontic Wax and Pain Relievers
Orthodontic wax is one of the easiest and most efficient treatments to alleviate discomfort caused by braces. Wax may provide a smooth surface on irritating brackets and wires, decreasing friction and relieving pain.

In addition, if you experience any discomfort during orthodontic treatment, you may use over-the-counter pain medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen as your doctor advises.
Oral Hygiene and Mouthwash
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene can help reduce braces pain. Brushing and flossing carefully around your braces can prevent food particles from getting stuck and causing irritation. Using an orthodontic-specific mouthwash can also be beneficial.

These mouthwashes are designed to soothe and protect your mouth, relieving discomfort while promoting overall oral health. Incorporating these steps into your daily routine can make a significant difference in managing braces pain and ensuring a more comfortable orthodontic experience.

Final Words

Although discomfort or soreness from braces is common, effective solutions are available to make the therapy more tolerable. Orthodontic wax, pain medicines, cold compresses, a soft food diet, and careful eating methods may all help alleviate discomfort caused by braces and make the adjustment period go more smoothly.

Remember that the short-lived pain will go away as your mouth gets used to the braces. Contact Glow Orthodontics for expert braces care and individualized counseling during your orthodontic treatment. The friendly staff will do all they can to make achieving your dream smile as stress-free as possible.