Adjusting to braces can bring common, temporary discomfort as your teeth begin to shift. This soreness is a normal part of orthodontic treatment. Understanding why this sensation occurs can help manage expectations and promote a smoother transition.
Understanding Braces Discomfort
When orthodontic appliances are adjusted, they exert precise, continuous pressure on the teeth. This force initiates a biological process in the jawbone, allowing teeth to move. Specialized cells begin to remodel the bone around the tooth roots, breaking down bone on one side and building new bone on the other.
This bone remodeling involves the periodontal ligament, a network of fibers that anchors the tooth to the bone. The ligament stretches and compresses under the applied pressure, leading to localized inflammation and tenderness. This temporary inflammatory response is the primary cause of the aching sensation shortly after an adjustment.
Effective Pain Relief Strategies
Managing discomfort after a braces adjustment involves over-the-counter pain relievers. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen offers effective pain relief without addressing inflammation directly. Always follow the dosage instructions on the package, taking a dose every four to six hours as needed.
Gentle oral care practices also soothe irritated tissues. Rinsing your mouth several times a day with a warm salt water solution can reduce inflammation and promote healing. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. For irritation caused by brackets or wires rubbing against the inside of your cheeks, lips, or tongue, orthodontic wax can provide a protective barrier. Simply pinch off a small piece, roll it into a ball, and press it firmly over the problematic area of your brace.
Adjusting your diet can alleviate discomfort during the initial days after an adjustment. Opt for soft foods that require minimal chewing, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, soft-cooked pasta, or scrambled eggs. Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods like nuts, popcorn, hard candies, and gum, as these can exacerbate pain and potentially damage your braces. Applying a cold compress or an ice pack to the outside of your jaw can also help numb the area and reduce swelling. Apply the compress for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, taking breaks in between.
The discomfort subsides within three to seven days as your teeth adapt to the new forces. Allowing your body sufficient time to adjust is important for managing pain.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
While some discomfort is normal, certain symptoms warrant contacting your orthodontist. If your pain becomes severe, unbearable, or does not improve after a week of home care, contact your orthodontist. Such persistent discomfort could indicate an underlying issue.
A broken wire or bracket can also cause irritation or interfere with treatment progression. If a wire is poking your cheek or gum, you can try to gently push it into a more comfortable position with a cotton swab or cover it with orthodontic wax. However, avoid attempting to repair the appliance yourself.
If you develop persistent sores, swelling, or signs of infection in your mouth that do not heal with warm salt water rinses, contact your orthodontist. A loose band or any other part of your appliance that feels out of place or is causing unusual pressure should also be reported promptly.