Does Getting Braces Hurt?
Braces are activated with a wire when they are attached to the teeth, and the wire begins to exert pressure on the teeth.
Soreness or discomfort may be felt for a few days to a week after the wire is attached to the new brackets. The first few days to a week after braces, expanders, and wires are put in, and after wire adjustments and activation, appointments can cause some discomfort for most patients. When you get braces, your lips and cheeks may take a week or two to adjust.
4 Things To Expect When Getting Braces
Regular orthodontic appointments
For archwire changes, elastic (colors) or metal ties around the braces, adjustments to the braces, and to monitor orthodontic treatment progress, regular orthodontic appointments are required. Invisalign braces work by gradually realigning the teeth to use gentle activations during your regular checkups and adjustments.
You may experience some discomfort for the first few days following an orthodontic adjustment or when you receive a new orthodontic wire, but this discomfort will subside quickly.
Coping with discomfort
Getting braces for the first time can cause mild to moderate discomfort or pain. Brace tightening, which is necessary while wearing braces, can cause discomfort.
Begin taking the pain reliever before the soreness begins and continue it as long as the manufacturer recommends. Restrictive use of saltwater rinses (warm water mixed with as much salt as you can tolerate, rinse 6-12 times per day) and gum chewing can help alleviate orthodontic discomfort and speed up tooth movement by increasing tooth movement blood flow to supporting structures surrounding the teeth.
Braces are magnets for food.
Braces are a magnet for food. It can’t be avoided! Because of this, brushing after every meal is essential to preventing cavities (and embarrassing situations). Make sure you pack a compact mirror and interproximal brushes when you leave the house so that you can check your braces after eating and remove any food that gets stuck in your brackets and wire.
Keeping your braces clean
Any person can develop a variety of common dental problems, including plaque, gingivitis, and demineralization. You’ll have to brush more frequently if you’ve got braces because you’re more vulnerable to these kinds of problems. For this reason, instead of twice a day, a soft-bristled toothbrush should be used to brush your teeth after each meal.
Plaque and tooth decay are facilitated by the presence of food residue, sugar, or acidity (such as citrus). It is critical to remove these particles from the mouths of those wearing braces so that they do not accumulate and lead to dental issues such as cavities.
Related: Should I Get Braces? Things You Should Consider
Needing an orthodontic appointment?
Visit Kumra Orthodontics Washington, DC or Kumra Orthodontics Stafford, VA, and request an appointment with us!
Foods To Avoid While in Braces
Certain foods can wreak havoc on your braces’ brackets, bands, and archwires. Avoiding foods that are too hard or sticky is a significant concern. Maintaining proper hygiene while wearing braces is essential to preventing cavities from forming around them. A buildup of tartar and plaque can lead to white spots on the teeth if the teeth and braces aren’t properly cleaned.
Foods to avoid right after getting braces include:
- spicy foods
- citrus foods
- ice cream
- thick rolls or bread
- thicker cuts of meats
Some chewy foods to avoid:
- Licorice
- Gum
- Bagels
- Beef jerky
- Caramel
Some crunchy foods to avoid:
- Nuts
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables
- Chips
- pretzels
When you have questions about your experience with braces, it’s best to talk to your orthodontist. At Kumra Orthodontics, we’d be happy to help you on your path to a better smile.
Related: A Helpful Guide on How to Eat with Braces
About Kumra Orthodontics Braces
At Kumra Orthodontics, we use the most advanced diagnostic equipment available to ensure the best diagnosis possible for our patients. This includes Itero Scanning, 3D Cone Beam radiographs, and the most up-to-date camera and photographic equipment. As a result of the 3D Diagnostics, we can provide the highest quality orthodontic treatments to improve aesthetics and alleviate symptoms associated with poor jaw alignment.
When you come in for your complimentary consultation, Dr. Bob Kumra and Dr. Mina Abdolahi will work together to determine if you have any misalignments in your teeth and jaw. They will then develop a treatment plan to provide you with the best possible outcome while remaining within your financial means.
Looking for the best braces clinic in Washington DC and Stafford, VA? Contact Kumra Orthodontics and Book Your Appointment Now
Aside from their cosmetic benefits, braces can benefit your self-esteem, physical health, and emotional well-being. Also, braces can affect your ability to establish good interpersonal relationships and do a better job at work.
Getting braces is a commitment you would want to do with a reliable orthodontist. Ensure that you are in good hands by scheduling an appointment with Kumra Orthodontics.
