Starting orthodontic treatment often comes with a period of adjustment. Whether you’ve just gotten braces or aligners, some soreness in the first few days is a normal part of your teeth shifting into their new positions.
Here is what to expect and how to overcome that discomfort.
Why discomfort happens
Braces and aligners exert constant and gentle force on the teeth to move them gradually to their new positions. You may feel more discomfort during the first few days of getting your braces on or after each adjustment appointment or new aligner.
Easy Ways to Manage the Discomfort
- Eat soft foods in the first few days. The treatment can make your mouth sore, and it is better to stick to soft foods, such as soups, yogurts, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies.
- Try rinsing your mouth with salt water. Rinsing your mouth with salt water several times a day can help soothe your gums and any irritation caused by braces or wires.
- Apply orthodontic wax to your braces. If your brackets or wire are irritating your lips or cheeks, putting some dental wax on the affected area may reduce discomfort.
- Take over-the-counter medication. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen may help with the initial pain. Contact your dentist to see what is right for you.
- Apply a cold compress. Applying a cold pack on your jaw for short periods can help with swelling and pain relief.
- Use cool liquids to rinse your mouth. Cool water can feel good immediately after an adjustment, while consuming foods and drinks that are very hot or cold can increase sensitivity for a day or two.
When to contact your orthodontist
- Severe or ongoing pain that does not improve in a few days
- A loose or broken bracket, wire, or aligner
- Wires sticking out and hurting you
- Excess and unusual swelling.
A normal part of the process
Discomfort during orthodontic treatment is a temporary experience that usually improves over time. Patients generally find that they have less pain after each orthodontist appointment due to their mouth becoming more accustomed to the braces or aligners.
If you experience any discomfort that is causing concern or have questions about the treatment, you can always consult your orthodontist for possible solutions.
In orthodontic treatment, discomfort is a normal and temporary part of the process that usually lessens over time. Simple steps such as eating soft foods, rinsing your mouth with saltwater, and using orthodontic wax can help alleviate initial discomfort.
Whether you are already receiving orthodontic treatment or thinking about starting to undergo the procedure, Braceport Dentistry, the best dental clinic in HSR Layout, Bangalore, is here to guide you through the process and answer all your questions.
