Many patients ask us if having braces fitted is painful. Our answer is that the process of having braces fitted to your teeth is not painful, however, once wires are placed and adjusted, this can lead to some discomfort and soreness in the following few days and can last for up to a week. You may also experience some discomfort when your braces are adjusted in follow up appointments with your orthodontist.
For the first few weeks, it can feel strange wearing braces, however, over time, it is likely that you will be increasingly less aware of them. Here is our guide to getting used to wearing braces and easing any pain when your braces are fitted and tightened.
Take pain relief
In the first few days after having your braces fitted or tightened, it’s normal to feel discomfort. To help ease any pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relief medication such as paracetamol, aspirin and ibuprofen. When taking any medication, it’s essential that you do not exceed the recommended dosage.
Swill your mouth with salt water
If you develop mouth sores from wires and brackets rubbing on your mouth, you can ease the irritation by swilling your mouth with salt water. Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of water. You should avoid touching sores with your fingers.
Avoid acidic drinks
Try to avoid fizzy drinks and drinks that naturally contain a lot of acid, such as orange or tomato juice. Acidic drinks can add to discomfort rather than helping to ease it.
Eat soft foods
While your teeth are sore, try to avoid hard or chewy foods as this will only add to the soreness. Foods such as mashed potatoes, pasta, yoghurt, soft bread, eggs and soups are advisable as they don’t require much chewing.
Use orthodontic wax
Your orthodontist will give you orthodontic wax to take away. This is designed to help prevent the brackets and wires of your braces from rubbing on the inside of your mouth. To apply wax to your braces, simply squeeze a small ball of orthodontic wax between your fingers and place it over brackets or wires in areas of your mouth that are being irritated most.
Over a few days, your teeth slowly get used to the pressure of braces and discomfort disappears naturally. After this point, you should start to get used to wearing braces and you will be able to eat a larger range of food. However, it’s recommended to stay away from especially hard or chewy foods.
The longer you wear braces, the less they will seem to stick out, as your tooth alignment will improve.
For more information on brace care or to arrange for a consultation, simply call 0161 6220987.