The experience of getting braces often brings with it a sudden inability to bite down comfortably, or even completely. This difficulty is common immediately after the initial placement or following routine adjustments and can range from a dull ache to sharp pain when pressure is applied. The tenderness and discomfort are a direct consequence of the mechanical forces applied to guide the teeth into new positions. This temporary challenge is a normal and expected part of the overall process designed to straighten teeth and correct alignment. Understanding the reasons involves recognizing both the biological response of the mouth tissues and the intentional mechanics of the orthodontic hardware.
The Biological Cause of Initial Soreness
The primary source of pain when attempting to bite down lies in the acute biological response of the tissues supporting the tooth structure. Each tooth is suspended within its socket by the periodontal ligament (PDL). When orthodontic wires exert pressure, they create areas of compression and tension within this ligament, triggering an inflammatory reaction.
This mechanical stress initiates bone remodeling, the mechanism by which teeth physically move through the bone. On the pressure side of the socket, osteoclasts break down existing alveolar bone. Simultaneously, on the tension side, osteoblasts generate new bone tissue.
The force-induced inflammation and cellular activity within the PDL cause heightened sensitivity and soreness. This acute inflammatory phase peaks during the first 24 to 48 hours after placement or adjustment. The tenderness makes the teeth feel sensitive to biting, as the PDL fibers are strained and the surrounding bone is actively being reshaped.
This controlled biological response allows the tooth socket to shift along with the tooth. While remodeling is necessary for alignment, the associated inflammation prevents comfortable chewing during the initial phase. The discomfort is a temporary side effect of the body carrying out the instructions given by the orthodontic appliance.
Mechanical Devices Preventing Full Closure
Beyond the biological soreness, an entirely separate reason for the inability to bite down is the intentional placement of mechanical hardware. These devices physically block the upper and lower teeth from meeting, serving several purposes in the treatment plan. This mechanical interference often completely alters the patient’s bite.
A common example is the bite turbo, also called a bite ramp or bite block. These small, hardened attachments are bonded to the biting surfaces of the back teeth or the backs of the upper front teeth. Their function is to create a gap, ensuring the upper teeth cannot fully contact the lower teeth when the patient closes their mouth.
This intentional separation primarily protects the lower brackets from being broken by the upper teeth, especially with a deep overbite. By preventing full jaw closure, bite turbos simultaneously facilitate the rapid correction of bite alignment. Biting down onto the turbos applies pressure that helps move the teeth into their correct positions more efficiently.
Another mechanical barrier involves molar bands, which are metal rings that encircle the back teeth. The thickness of these bands can interfere with the normal meeting of the upper and lower chewing surfaces. Although their primary role is to anchor the main archwires, their presence contributes to the initial feeling that the bite does not close properly.
Strategies for Comfortable Eating and Relief
Managing the discomfort associated with biting down requires practical adjustments and appropriate pain management. The initial days following placement or adjustment demand a temporary shift in dietary habits. It is recommended to consume soft foods that require minimal chewing, such as soups, smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs.
This soft-food diet prevents painful pressure on sensitive teeth and reduces the risk of breaking brackets or wires. As soreness subsides, typically within a few days to a week, the patient can gradually transition back to more solid foods, cutting them into small pieces.
For managing biological pain, over-the-counter pain relievers provide comfort. Acetaminophen is the preferred choice because non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can interfere with the bone remodeling process. NSAIDs reduce the inflammation necessary for bone breakdown and rebuilding, which can slow down tooth movement.
Using orthodontic wax is helpful for physical irritation caused by brackets or wires rubbing against the cheeks, lips, or gums. The wax creates a smooth, protective barrier over the metal surfaces, allowing sore spots to heal. A warm saltwater rinse can also help soothe irritated soft tissues in the mouth.