What to Expect When Getting Braces: A Guide
Braces are an orthopedic treatment used to correct overcrowded or crooked teeth or an overbite, suitable for all ages. Often, the teeth may be straight, but the lower and upper jaw cannot meet adequately. This problem can either be inherited, a result of injuries received early or late tooth loss, or thumb-sucking. If there is an abnormal bite, your dentist may recommend braces or any other orthopedic treatment such as aligners as a remedy to correct your smile. Fixing the problem can create a pleasant smile, but most importantly, orthodontic treatment results in a healthier mouth.
One of the most generally asked questions about braces do braces hurt when placed or how much braces hurt on a scale of 1-10. Truthfully, the process of applying the dental braces to your teeth does not hurt. On a scale of 1 to 10, that might be a 1. The discomfort, while not long-lasting, comes in when the wires connecting braces are added, tightened, or adjusted. That level of discomfort varies for everyone depending on how much adjusting is done during a visit. Although everyone is different, most people experience pain for a couple of days when they initially get the braces and after each brace tightening. However, others may experience only mild discomfort. If you’re about to decide to become one of the 4 million people in the United States who wear braces to straighten crooked teeth, improve your bite, close gaps, and give you a more attractive look. Don’t forget to read more about braces and potential stains after braces.
How Long Does It Take to Put on Braces?
Some people may have to use ear spacers or separators between their teeth for some time before getting the braces. Though this spacer may feel tight for some days, the discomfort should go away afterward. When the braces are being inserted, which can take up to 2 or 3 hours depending on the type of braces you are getting or your teeth, it is possible that a person might not feel any pain or discomfort right away; however as time goes on, the force of the braces slowly pulls the teeth into alignment, creating aches that can linger and take effect around the mouth for a couple of days.
Furthermore, in the first few hours after placing the braces, it may take longer to eat meals, and this is because it takes some time to adjust to wearing the braces and to learn to chew with them. In some cases, people often ask what to eat with braces during the first week, and it is advisable to stick to pasta, seedless bread, soft veggies, pudding, soup, yogurt, etc.
Tips for Relieving Discomfort with Braces
- Use orthodontic wax: Your orthodontist will give you some to place on the brackets and wires to reduce irritation on your lips and cheeks.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce any discomfort or soreness you may experience.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water: Rinse your mouth properly with warm salt water as it helps to reduce swelling and inflammation and promote healing.
- Eat tender foods: For the first few days after getting braces, stick to soft foods like soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and yogurt. Do away with stiff, sticky, or crunchy foods that can damage your braces.
- Use a straw: If your braces are causing discomfort when drinking, try using a straw to avoid contact with your teeth.
- Stay hydrated: Plenty of water can help keep your mouth hydrated and reduce discomfort.
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions: Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on caring for your braces. Follow these instructions carefully to minimize discomfort and guarantee that your treatment has the best chance of success.
Achieving a Winning Smile: Final Thoughts
The idea of getting braces can seem off-putting, but there’s a reason why many people worldwide continue to get them. Remember, the discomfort associated with getting braces is usually for a short time and will reduce within a few days.
Wouldn’t you prefer to spend your life sporting a winning smile rather than simply wishing you had one? This is your opportunity to stop dreaming about it and make it happen. Reach out to Atlanta Orthodontic Specialists. Whether you want to inquire about different bracers like traditional metal braces, hidden braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners, Atlanta Orthodontic Specialists has got you covered. The SureSmile technology we use to straighten teeth gives you a series of choices and a pleasant smile faster than any other choice in the field. To schedule an appointment, visit our website to call or chat with us today!
