Many adults would like to improve their smile but they’re apprehensive.
Orthodontic treatments have become much more accessible over the past few decades, but people still wonder “do braces hurt?”
The truth is, braces and pain that comes with them is entirely temporary – and very manageable.
You now have more options than ever to create a beautiful smile with minimal discomfort and pain.
Don’t let this fear stop you from achieving the smile of your dreams.
When it comes to braces hurting, here’s what you should know before you make your decision. Remember, your orthodontist will be with you through every step of the process to ensure your utmost comfort.
You Can Expect Discomfort with Braces
It would be a lie to give “no” as an answer to the question “do braces hurt.” There is certainly some discomfort involved, but this pain is minimal and very easy to manage with a variety of methods.
When it comes to braces, discomfort in some form is inevitable but here is what you can expect with braces so you can be fully aware of the entire process.
Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy your new smile for decades after going through this minor uncomfortable period.
Your First Day of Application
On the first day, you’ll need to become accustomed to having the devices in your mouth. Chewing and talking may feel a little strange so stick with soft foods.
You may not even notice any pain on the first day of application. If you do, this pain should be very minimal and manageable with over-the-counter pain medicine or natural remedies.
The First Few Days Afterwards
As your teeth start to shift into place, you’ll probably experience some minor pain like a sore mouth or headache. This discomfort should only last a few days.
Resist the urge to pick at your braces – let them do their job. Picking at the wires or bands can prohibit the braces from working correctly. This means you’ll need to wear the braces for even longer in the grand scheme of things.
Stick to your usual schedule to keep your mind off the discomfort and take advantage of our tips for reducing pain. If your soft tissue or gums hurt, try to avoid moving your lips too much or sleeping on your face.
Braces and Pain Following Adjustments
During your time wearing braces, your Scottsdale orthodontist will make a series of adjustments to help your teeth realign. This may cause discomfort or minor pain for a few days following each appointment.
Your orthodontist will always do everything in his or her power to keep you comfortable during and after each appointment. Communicate your concerns throughout the process. They will work with you to find personalized pain management solutions based on your individual pain.
Your Soft Tissue Gums May Hurt
It’s obvious that your teeth will hurt with braces, but your soft tissues and gums may hurt, too.
Your orthodontist will give you a very safe wax to place around your brackets and wires. This wax will reduce the friction between your soft tissue and the metal in your braces.
When It Comes to Braces, Pain is Temporary
According to a study from the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), more than one-third of
Americans are not happy with their current smile.
This impacts many areas of their lives including careers, social interaction, and romantic relationships.
In fact, almost 50% of adults between the ages of 18 and 24 have untagged themselves from a Facebook photo because they didn’t like their teeth.
When it comes to braces, pain is temporary, but the many benefits last for the rest of your life. Instead of thinking about the pain, think about how you’ll feel showing off your beautiful smile for years to come.
If Your Braces are Hurting, Your Orthodontist Will Offer Many Solutions
Dunn Orthodontics understands your concerns about braces and pain associated with them.
We want you to know that you have many solutions for reducing the temporary discomfort. That’s why we put this article together to help you ease the pain.
It includes over-the-counter and natural treatment options, so you can find something that works for you.
And, of course, we also offer personalized pain remedies and advice as needed for each patient – you’ll never go through the discomfort alone.
You Have More Options Than Ever to Achieve a Perfect Smile with Minimal Pain and Discomfort
Orthodontic technology has drastically advanced over the past few decades. This means you now have several less invasive options for creating a beautiful smile with minimal main and discomfort.
- SureSmile: A cutting edge and precise technology that reduces adjustment appointments and the time you wear braces by six to eight months. SureSmile is compatible with other orthodontic methods to provide the most personalized and accurate treatment possible.
- Lingual Incognito Braces: Worried your soft tissue or gums may hurt? These braces are placed on the inside of your teeth to minimize soft tissue discomfort. Lingual braces are compatible with almost all bite conditions.
- Invisalign: The gradual alignment vastly reduces pain and discomfort. Is Invisalign painful? Invisalign isn’t right for every bite condition – talk to your orthodontist about your options.
Worried That Braces Will Make Your Teeth Hurt? Dunn Orthodontics is Here to Help
Dunn Orthodontics is a leading orthodontics practice in the Phoenix area with three convenient locations in Phoenix, Litchfield Park, and Arcadia.
Doctors Matthew and Courtney Dunn have years of experience helping thousands of patients achieve beautiful smiles. Our office offers a variety of cutting edge orthodontic treatment options including
Invisalign, SureSmile, and other methods for children, teens, and adults alike.
If you’re interested in improving your smile, contact Dunn Orthodontics today to schedule a complimentary consultation. You can also call your nearest location and we’ll help you schedule your appointment over the phone.
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