Braces are a common orthodontic treatment to align teeth and improve oral health. While effective, many experience some discomfort during treatment. This normal, temporary sensation is part of achieving a straighter smile. Understanding its causes and duration helps individuals navigate their orthodontic experience.
Initial Discomfort After Placement
Upon brace placement, patients experience soreness, pressure, and tenderness. This discomfort arises as braces apply gentle, consistent pressure, initiating bone remodeling. The periodontal ligaments stretch, causing inflammation and tenderness. This sensation is typically a dull ache, and lips, cheeks, and tongue may also feel sensitive adapting to the new hardware.
Initial soreness begins a few hours after placement, most noticeable within 24 to 48 hours. Discomfort generally subsides within three to five days, rarely lasting longer than a week. During this period, irritation or small sores may occur on the cheeks, lips, or gums as they rub against brackets and wires.
Adjustments and Ongoing Soreness
Following routine orthodontic adjustments, such as tightening or changing wires, recurring soreness is common. This discomfort arises as the orthodontist reactivates pressure to move teeth. The sensation is often pressure or aching, similar to initial placement but less intense.
Soreness after an adjustment lasts a few hours to a few days, with most discomfort occurring within 24 to 48 hours. As treatment progresses, especially after six months, discomfort following adjustments tends to lessen. This indicates the mouth and teeth are accustomed to the forces.
Strategies for Pain Management
Several effective strategies can help alleviate discomfort from braces:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) reduce inflammation and pain. Take them before or shortly after an adjustment to minimize soreness.
- Apply a cold compress to the cheeks to numb soreness and reduce inflammation.
- Eat soft foods, especially during increased sensitivity. Mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, scrambled eggs, and soups require minimal chewing.
- Orthodontic wax provides immediate relief from irritation caused by rubbing brackets or wires. Roll a small piece onto the problematic area to create a smooth barrier.
- Warm saltwater rinses soothe sore gums and minor sores, reducing irritation and swelling.
Knowing When to Contact Your Orthodontist
While some discomfort is normal during orthodontic treatment, certain signs indicate a problem requiring professional attention. Contact your orthodontist if:
- Severe pain persists for more than a few days and is not relieved by over-the-counter medication.
- Persistent, sharp, or localized pain lasts over a week after initial placement or an adjustment.
- Broken or loose wires or brackets. A broken wire can cause significant irritation or injury.
- Large, non-healing sores or ulcers in your mouth.
- Excessive gum bleeding not related to brushing.
- Unusual changes in tooth movement or difficulty chewing that suggest an issue with the braces.