Your Swift Current Invisalign® Provider
Are you wondering whether having braces will hurt? Our dentists in Swift Current explain how to avoid pain after having braces.
Braces as a Cosmetic Dental Treatment
Braces or clear aligners are popular orthodontic treatment options many people will consider. This serious dental treatment involves a significant investment of time and effort, and is often needed to correct numerous oral health disorders and conditions, including misalignment of the teeth or jaw.
That said, you may opt for treatment with braces for cosmetic reasons; specifically, a straighter, more symmetrical smile. Many people choose braces to correct minor misalignments that aren't causing any inconvenience or discomfort, but which do have them feeling somewhat self-conscious.
If you are considering straightening your teeth for primarily cosmetic purposes, you might be wondering if the treatment is painful, and whether any pain you experience will be worth it.
Does having braces hurt?
One of the most common questions our patients who may be anxious about having braces is, 'Do braces hurt?'
Our honest reply is always that while the application itself won't hurt, you might feel some mild pain or discomfort after the brackets are joined with the orthodontic wire.
Many patients experience some soreness or discomfort for the first few days after their braces are placed, or adjustments have been made to their wires or brackets. Getting braces is a big change for your mouth, and your cheeks and lips might need a couple of weeks to get used to moving around them.
You'll be relieved to know that the appliances and wires we use are modern, and designed to exert gradual, light, 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 stock up on softer foods to eat for after appointments and if your teeth are sore or sensitive after your braces are removed. Think soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese - anything that will help you avoid having to bite or crunch down with 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 braces are removed for good, it’s not unusual to feel some soreness on your teeth or in your mouth. Some patients find over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen - contained in Advil, Motrin and other brands - helps relieve any soreness (just ensure you are not allergic to any medication you may take).
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.