When you first get braces
Wearing braces will not harm your teeth. Wearing braces takes one to two hours.
First, your orthodontist attaches bands to your back molars. This may involve some mild pressure or pinching, but it won't be painful.
Your orthodontist will then apply a special glue to your teeth that doesn't taste great but won't cause harm. The orthodontist glues a bracket to each of your teeth and then connects the brackets with wires. Finally, everything is secured with elastic bands.
Within a few hours, your teeth and gums will begin to experience some pain and soreness. This pain may last about a week. During this time, you will get used to the feel of your new braces. Wires and rubber bands apply pressure to the teeth, slowly straightening them. This pressure takes some getting used to.
During the first week after wearing braces, you may experience:
- Pressure and soreness of teeth and gums, especially when chewing
- Check internally for sores or pain
- Discomfort or cuts on your tongue
Often, this pain can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen. Stick to soft, chewy foods like soup, yogurt, and ice cream for the first week. Cold drinks and smoothies can also soothe inflamed gums.
Most people get used to braces in about a month. After six months, you may not even notice them. However, it's normal to feel some soreness from time to time.
when they tighten
Braces solve alignment problems by applying constant pressure to the teeth. Over time, your teeth will become straighter. How long this takes depends on several factors, including the type of braces you have and what problems your orthodontist is trying to address. Most people wear braces for about two years.
When you get braces, you'll need to see your orthodontist every few weeks for adjustments. During these appointments, your orthodontist will evaluate your teeth and check how much pressure your braces are creating. As teeth move and tension decreases, braces lose their effectiveness. At each visit, the orthodontist will tighten the wires, springs, or elastic bands to increase the tension.
Tightening your braces may cause pain and soreness for several days. The discomfort should be less severe than when you first got braces. After a few days, you will get used to the increased pressure on your teeth. Over-the-counter pain relievers should be enough to control pain.
when they are removed
You'll be happy to see your new straight teeth, so you'll likely be less worried about pain. All dental procedures are somewhat uncomfortable, but braces removal should be painless.
After your braces are removed, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned. Your orthodontist may need to take another set of X-rays and impressions to check how well your braces are working. If you have wisdom teeth, your orthodontist may recommend having them removed. This will prevent the newly straightened teeth from being pushed out of alignment.
While getting your braces off is a relief, it doesn’t mean your orthodontic treatment is over. Your orthodontist will fit your retainer. This is a custom-made device, usually made of rubber or plastic, that prevents teeth from shifting back into their original positions. Your retainer may have metal wires that keep your teeth aligned while the bone and gums heal. You may need to wear your retainer every day. Or maybe you only need it at night. Regardless, it shouldn't cause any pain.
Dealing with braces pain
Most braces pain can be treated with over-the-counter medications. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a common choice. Some people use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve), which can also help reduce gum inflammation.
Your orthodontist may provide you with a soft wax that you can use whenever your braces rub against the inside of your mouth. The wax provides a protective barrier that reduces the likelihood of cuts or sores. If your wires or braces are in incorrect position and are causing you pain, make an appointment with your orthodontist immediately.
There are some foods you should avoid while wearing braces. Foods such as popcorn, hard candies, gummies, and chewing gum can damage your braces.
