Discomfort is common when starting orthodontic treatment, signaling that braces are actively realigning teeth. This soreness is a normal and expected part of the journey towards a straighter smile.
Understanding the Discomfort
Discomfort felt after getting braces or having them adjusted stems from the biological response of teeth and surrounding tissues to applied forces. When braces are placed, they exert continuous, gentle pressure on the teeth. This pressure causes the periodontal ligament, which anchors the tooth to the jawbone, to stretch on one side and compress on the other. This stretching and compression stimulate bone remodeling, where bone is removed on the side of compression and new bone is laid down on the side of tension, allowing the tooth to move. Initial inflammation and physiological changes within the periodontal ligament contribute to soreness. While initial placement can lead to generalized soreness, subsequent adjustments typically result in localized tenderness as specific teeth are targeted for further movement.
Typical Pain Duration and What to Expect
Significant soreness after initial brace placement typically lasts 3 to 7 days. Peak discomfort often occurs within the first 24 to 48 hours as teeth begin to respond to new forces. This heightened sensitivity gradually subsides as teeth adapt to the constant pressure. Following routine adjustments, discomfort is generally less severe and shorter-lived, lasting 1 to 3 days. This reduced duration is because teeth have already begun adapting to the orthodontic forces. Individual experiences can vary based on pain tolerance, tooth sensitivity, and treatment complexity.
Effective Pain Relief Strategies
Several practical approaches can manage discomfort after getting braces or adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can alleviate soreness by reducing inflammation and pain perception. Always follow dosage instructions provided on the medication packaging or by your orthodontist.
Consuming a soft food diet is particularly beneficial during the initial days of discomfort. Avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods minimizes pressure on sensitive teeth and prevents dislodging brackets or wires. Examples of suitable soft foods include mashed potatoes, yogurt, soups, smoothies, and soft-cooked vegetables.
Applying cold compresses to the outside of the jaw or cheeks can also help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing temporary relief.
Orthodontic wax addresses irritation caused by brackets or wires rubbing against the inside of the cheeks, lips, or tongue. A small piece of wax can be rolled into a ball and pressed onto the offending part of the brace, creating a smooth barrier.
Rinsing the mouth with a warm saltwater solution can also soothe sore gums and help heal any minor sores that may develop from the braces. This simple rinse can reduce inflammation and promote oral hygiene.
When to Consult Your Orthodontist
While some discomfort is normal during orthodontic treatment, certain symptoms warrant immediate consultation with your orthodontist. If you experience severe, persistent pain that does not subside after a week, especially beyond the initial adjustment period, seek professional advice. This could indicate an underlying issue that needs attention.
You should also contact your orthodontist if any components of your braces are broken or loose. This includes a bracket detaching from a tooth or a wire poking severely and causing significant irritation that cannot be managed with orthodontic wax.
Signs of infection around the gums, such as redness, swelling, or pus that does not resolve, require prompt evaluation. Contact your orthodontist if discomfort severely impairs daily functions like eating or speaking beyond the initial adjustment period, or if you notice any other unusual symptoms that seem out of the ordinary for typical braces discomfort.