Are you thinking about getting braces? Putting on braces is a great way to get a better, straighter smile.
But let us be honest: when we think of braces, we might also picture painful and uncomfortable tightening. It is normal to feel some pain during dental treatment, but the good news is that it is usually only brief and easy to deal with.
Talk to an experienced LA dentist if you are thinking about getting braces. They can help you decide if braces are right for you and address any worries you may have about the treatment process.
Why does orthodontic treatment cause discomfort?
Braces put light, steady pressure on your teeth to make them straight. This pressure moves your teeth into the right place over time.
The gums and bones around the teeth get different amounts of blood flow as the pressure is put on them. The body’s natural inflammatory reaction is set off by this change, which can make things hurt and feel tender.
How to manage discomfort during orthodontic treatments.
There are a few things you can do to make your orthodontic journey less painful, which is good news. Here are some good ways to deal with pain:
- Over-the-counter pain killers: Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are two over-the-counter painkillers that can help ease pain and swelling. Painkillers should usually be taken right before or after your dental meetings, when the pain is usually the worst.
- Cold compresses: Putting a cold compress on the outside of your face near the sore spot can help reduce swelling and redness.
- Orthodontic wax: The clear, waxy material called orthodontic wax can be put on the clips or wires of your braces to make a shield that keeps your cheeks and lips from getting irritated.
- Gargles with salt water: Using warm salt water to rinse your mouth can help ease pain and reduce swelling. The salt draws water out of swollen cells.
- Soft foods: Eating soft foods for the first few days after getting your braces fixed can help keep your teeth and gums from getting too sore. If you do this, it will be easier to chew.
- Keep up with your oral health: During dental treatment, you must brush and floss your teeth every day. Plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease can all be painful, but good mouth care can help stop them.
Some more tips for managing discomfort.
Here are some more tips that can help make your time in orthodontics more comfortable in addition to the ones already listed:
- Talk to your dentist or orthodontist. You should not be afraid to talk to your orthodontist if you are in a lot of pain. They can look at your position, give you more help, or make changes.
- Stay away from things that are hard, chewy, or sticky. These things can make your teeth and braces hurt more by putting extra stress on them.
- Follow the directions for your retainer. If you follow your orthodontist’s advice and wear your retainer as directed, the benefits of your treatment will last longer, and your teeth will not move back into their original places.
- Do not rush. Do not forget that getting braces takes time. There may be some pain along the way, but you will have a beautiful, healthy smile in the end.
When should you seek professional help?
Even though most of the pain that comes with dental treatment can be dealt with, there are times when you may need to see a doctor. Get in touch with your orthodontist if any of these things happen:
- Pain that is too bad for over-the-counter painkillers to help
- Having trouble eating or talking
- Braces or wires that are too loose
- Cheeks or gums that are swollen
- Fever
If you follow these tips and get professional help when you need it, you can keep the pain to a minimum and have a good orthodontic experience. Do not forget that getting a better, brighter smile is well worth the work.