You may already know the long-term benefits of getting braces. However, one question still stops you from making the next phone call for an orthodontist appointment: DO BRACES HURT?
While we don’t have a quick answer for you, we can tell you what to expect and how to manage soreness caused by braces.
When Braces Hurt?
Your braces might cause some discomfort when you first get them, when you start a new appliance like headgear, or when your orthodontist increases the wire size. Also, if you must wear spacers between your teeth before getting your braces, they might cause a sensation similar to having food stuck between your teeth, along with a slight poking feeling on the gums.
Initial Placement
When your orthodontist first places the brackets and bands on your teeth, you won’t feel pain immediately. However, you might experience a “pinching” sensation when the assistant attaches the wires to the back molars. You can also expect some pressure on your teeth during this step. The process of fitting and placing the brackets itself is painless.
Fortunately, it typically takes only an hour, depending on the type of braces you need.
First Few Days
The first four days after your orthodontist puts on your braces, you’ll feel some soreness, mainly around your cheeks. The wires might rub against the inside of your mouth, but most types of braces are designed to minimize that discomfort. They’ll also help with any pain from the pressure on your teeth and gums. So, the soreness should lessen over time.
Adjustments and Wire Change Visits
Again, you’ll feel some pressure on your teeth and gums as your orthodontist applies new elastics to adjust your wires and braces. This exam and tightening process ensure that your teeth are moving in the right direction. Luckily, it only takes 30 minutes or less. For one to three days after your braces are tightened, your gums and cheeks may feel sore as they adjust to the pressure.
Soft Tissue Irritation
Likewise, braces, especially the lingual type, can irritate the inside of your mouth, lips, and tongue. Sometimes, the friction from metal rubbing against soft tissue can cause canker sores. Fortunately, this condition is temporary and can be easily relieved.
How Long Does Any Discomfort Last?
The soft tissue irritation we discussed earlier happens occasionally. As you get used to your new normal, the discomfort from your braces on your teeth decreases to almost nothing.
After the initial placement and subsequent periodic adjustments, your pain level will be at its highest during the first 24 to 48 hours. Then, it starts to fade, especially if you take pain relievers, apply numbing gel, and use orthodontic wax.
What Any Discomfort Actually Feels Like
The pain in different parts of your mouth and jaw varies. For example, the bone near your teeth might feel from uncomfortable pressure to sharp soreness. This happens because bone tissue on one side of your teeth is breaking down to create space for movement. Similarly, the ligaments surrounding your teeth and keeping them in place become inflamed due to that same movement. The pain feels like stretching and strain around each tooth. Your gums, tongue, and cheeks may also sting because the wires and brackets might rub against them.
Tips for Braces Pain Relief
Fortunately, you can rest assured that your orthodontist will walk you through some steps for dealing with pain in your teeth braces. Some of these tips include:
- Applying orthodontic wax to the brackets and wires to ward off friction and irritation
- Applying gel like Ambesol or Orajel to sore areas
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, which help with soreness and inflammation.
- Icing your mouth and cheeks to numb the affected areas
- Staying with soft foods to prevent further irritation from occurring.
When to Call an Orthodontist
You should contact your orthodontist immediately if you experience persistent pain despite taking medication. They will need to check for infection or other underlying issues, and ensure the braces are still securely attached.
In some cases, you might experience sharp pain if a wire comes loose and pokes your mouth and gums. In this situation, you should also contact your orthodontist right away.
Conclusion
As you can see, some soreness may occur after your orthodontist places your braces and after a wire change. However, an expert in this field will provide you with detailed information about pain relief and prevention. As always, we recommend calling your orthodontist if the pain from your braces persists or worsens. Remember, getting help ensures a better outcome from your orthodontic treatment.
Schedule your consultation with Ziehmer Orthodontics today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!
FAQs:
Why do my teeth hurt with braces randomly?
If you sleep on one side or the other, you might unintentionally put pressure on your jaw or teeth. This soreness goes away after a few minutes. Otherwise, “random” pain usually stems from the movement of your teeth.
What to do when your teeth hurt from braces?
You can try placing ice packs on your cheeks to numb the areas. Additionally, you can apply numbing gel (e.g., Orajel and Ambesol) and take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Motrin.
Why do my teeth hurt after getting braces off?
Your teeth have become used to the pressure from the braces. As they settle into their new positions, you might feel a little sore. Additionally, your gums have swollen somewhat due to the braces. As they return to their normal size, they might become tender.
