Experiencing discomfort with braces is a common part of the orthodontic process. Many individuals wonder why their teeth hurt after getting braces or adjustments. This article explains the reasons behind this discomfort and provides practical steps for managing it.
The Science Behind Braces Discomfort
Braces apply consistent pressure to your teeth, gradually shifting them into desired positions. This force influences the periodontal ligament, the connective tissue anchoring teeth to the jawbone. As braces exert pressure, the ligament stretches on one side and compresses on the other, initiating bone remodeling.
Where the ligament is compressed, osteoclasts dissolve existing bone, creating space for tooth movement. On the stretched side, osteoblasts, another type of bone cell, lay down new bone to stabilize the tooth. This process of bone resorption and formation causes inflammation and soreness in the ligaments and surrounding tissues. Additionally, brackets and wires can rub against soft tissues like cheeks, lips, and gums, leading to irritation or sores.
Common Pain Experiences and Their Duration
Discomfort begins a few hours after braces are placed, feeling like a dull ache or tenderness. This initial soreness is due to teeth and gums adjusting to the pressure. It often peaks around days two to three and usually subsides within three to seven days.
Pain recurs after routine adjustments, such as tightening wires or changing elastic bands. These adjustments reactivate tension, creating new pressure points as teeth shift. Discomfort after adjustments lasts two to five days, with relief within a week. Eating hard or sticky foods can also exacerbate soreness, causing strain on sensitive teeth.
Strategies for Pain Relief
Managing discomfort from braces involves several approaches. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can reduce inflammation and alleviate soreness. Taking these medications about an hour before an adjustment can help manage discomfort.
Other strategies include:
- Apply orthodontic wax to brackets or wires rubbing against soft tissues to prevent irritation and sores.
- Rinse with warm salt water to heal small cuts or sores and reduce discomfort.
- Choose soft foods like soups or smoothies, especially after initial placement or adjustments, to minimize pressure on sensitive teeth.
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your mouth to numb the area and reduce inflammation.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While some discomfort is a normal part of the braces journey, contact your orthodontist in certain situations. If you experience severe, unrelenting pain that does not respond to home remedies like over-the-counter pain relievers, contact your orthodontist. Also, contact them if a wire breaks or a bracket becomes loose, causing significant irritation, poking, or damage to your mouth. Persistent sores that do not heal, or any other unusual or concerning, should also prompt a call to your orthodontist.