If you’re considering getting braces, you’re probably wondering if you’ll experience severe braces pain. Braces can cause discomfort but only after the orthodontist places or adjusts them. The braces pain usually disappears within a few days, and it can rarely last longer than seven days. But how do you know how much braces pain is normal? Read on to learn more.
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When Braces Hurt
Although every person gets a unique experience with braces, the following information offers a general idea of what you should expect at each phase of the process.
When You First Have Them
Having braces placed on your teeth does not hurt. It usually takes 1-2 hours to get braces put on your teeth. However, the placement time varies based on the kind of braces you want. First, your orthodontist places rubber bands around the molars. Although this may involve pinching or some pressure, it doesn’t hurt. Then, the orthodontist coats your teeth with a special glue that tastes bad but doesn’t hurt. Next, your orthodontist glues braces onto your teeth and then connects the braces using wires. Finally, everything gets secured into place with elastic bands.
Wearing Braces
How long do braces hurt? When you have the places on, you may not experience any discomfort or braces pain right away. But after some hours, you start developing mild braces pain and soreness in your gums and teeth as the pressure the braces exert on your teeth starts to take effect. This pressure gradually putting your teeth into alignment can cause braces pain and discomfort.
How Long Till My Braces Stop Hurting?
Braces pain could last from 1-7 days. During the first week, you may experience:
- Sore gums
- Sores or scrapes on the interior of the cheeks because of the braces rubbing against them
- Discomfort or cuts on your tongue if you use the tongue to feel the braces
- Sore teeth, mainly when eating
When Does the Pain Go Away After Getting Braces?
Ideally, it takes a month to get used to your braces. After this period, you might not even realize you have them, but you may experience soreness from time to time. However, when you get used to your braces, ensure you exercise good oral hygiene. You should keep in mind some things, including how to brush your teeth and how to care for your braces. You may think you need to give up on some of your favorite foods, but that’s not the case. For example, you can still consume sugary foods, though not recommended, but in moderation. Well, you have to ensure you rinse or brush your teeth after eating sugary foods to get rid of any sugar left in your mouth. Tooth decay can affect anyone, including those with braces.
When They Get Tightened
Braces resolve teeth alignment issues by exerting constant pressure on your teeth. Your teeth get into a straight position over time. The time it takes for your teeth to get into a straight position depends on various factors, including the type of appliance you’re using and the issue your orthodontist attempts to fix.
However, braces require regular adjustments for them to work as intended. Your orthodontist needs to adjust them every 1-2 months or as necessary, based on your progress. During these appointments, your orthodontist assesses your teeth and determines the level of pressure the braces exert on your teeth. Braces lose effectiveness when your teeth move, and tension reduces. During each visit, the orthodontist tightens springs, wires, and rubber bands to increase the pressure.
But does it hurt to get braces tightened? When tightening occurs, you may experience a level of discomfort and mild braces pain for some days. However, this discomfort should not be as bad as you first had your braces on. Thankfully, you’ll get used to the added pressure after some days, and an over-the-counter painkiller can help you manage the braces pain.
Removing Braces
Although people differ, braces can last for up to three years. When removing them, you may feel some discomfort. Your orthodontist will remove the braces, wires, and rubber bands before cleaning your teeth to get rid of any glue. To finish the treatment process, the orthodontist will fit for a retainer. This device, usually made of plastic or rubber, helps maintain your teeth in their new position after removing the braces. The retainer may consist of wires that keep your teeth aligned as the gums and bones heal. You may need to put on a removable retainer for a specific period following the removal of braces, either at night or during the day. The retainer doesn’t cause any braces pain or discomfort. There are permanent retainers that require your orthodontist to glue them to your teeth in the same way as braces.
It’s common for people to face trouble brushing their teeth appropriately while wearing braces. This challenge can result in tooth decay and cavities, which can hurt. Practicing good oral hygiene and avoiding sugary and sticky foods can help you avoid tooth decay and cavities.
How to Deal With Braces Pain
Luckily, there are several ways to get braces pain relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), naproxen (Aleve), or ibuprofen (Advil), can help you manage braces pain and inflammation in your gums. In addition, sticking to soft, no-chew foods during the first week, such as yogurt, soup, and ice cream, can help. Smoothies and cold drinks can also help sooth inflamed gums.
Your orthodontist may also give you soft wax that you can put in your mouth to prevent the braces from rubbing against the interior surface of your mouth. The wax acts as a barrier that prevents sores or cuts. If you have a bracket or wire that’s causing braces pain, schedule an appointment with your orthodontist at Smile Angels of Beverly Hills right away.
Although braces hurt, you can make your life easier if you know how to stop braces pain. With these additional tips, you will reduce the discomfort and overcome braces pain quickly.
- Eat soft and liquid foods
- Eat cold foods or take cold beverages
- Wrap an ice pack in a tea towel and apply it to the face
- Apply topical anesthetics to the gums using a cotton swab or finger
- Gargle with warm, salty water to help heal sores or cuts inside your mouth
- Avoid sticky foods and gum
- Clean your teeth and in between braces regularly to prevent tooth decay and cavities
When to See Your Orthodontist
Oftentimes, you’ll see your orthodontist frequently for tightening. If your braces get dislodged, a wire gets loose, or the rubber bands fall off, you should visit your orthodontist. In addition, you should see your orthodontist if you experience severe braces pain that doesn’t disappear within some days or after taking painkillers. Your orthodontist can assess the braces to ensure everything fits correctly and determine what’s causing the braces pain.
Rely On the Experts
Do you want to enjoy the benefits of dental a braces or get more answers to the question, “Do braces hurt?” Schedule an appointment with Smile Angels of Beverly Hills today. We have vast experience with color braces in Beverly Hills and are ready to walk you through the process. Call us at (310) 201-9001 or reach out to us online to set up an appoitment.