Well…. does it hurt??? As orthodontists, one of the questions we get asked most is if it hurts wearing braces! The honest answer is NO…. braces don’t hurt at all when they are applied to the teeth. Most patients will report mild soreness or discomfort once the orthodontic wire is engaged into the brackets, which will usually last for a few days.
There are two main types of fixed dental braces used to correct crooked or malpositioned teeth: Ceramic braces and metal braces. Both types of appliances include ‘brackets’ which are bonded to each individual tooth, and an ‘archwire’ which we will “fit into the bracket slot” to gently move the teeth into proper alignment. Elastic or wire ties will be applied to hold the wire in place. Some orthodontists may use special (self-ligating) brackets which don’t require a rubber or wire tie to secure the wire.
What should you expect when getting braces?
DAY 1 – PLACEMENT DAY – Putting on your braces will not be painful in the slightest. It may take longer to eat meals, but this is mainly because it takes some time to get used to wearing the braces. In some cases, the teeth may feel more sensitive than usual. Hard, difficult to chew foods should be avoided for the first few days after placement of braces.
2 DAYS LATER – The first few days after placement can be mildly uncomfortable. Why? because the teeth are beginning the realignment process and are not used to the pressure being put upon them by the brackets and archwire. We will provide relief wax to apply over the braces as necessary – wax helps provide a smooth surface and alleviates irritation to your cheeks and lips. Additionally, over-the-counter painkillers (e.g., Panadol®) may be taken as directed to relieve mild pain.
5 DAYS LATER – After five days, any initial discomfort associated with the braces should be completely gone. The teeth will have gradually become used to the braces. Eating should also be much easier so normal eating may be resumed at this point.
ROUTINE APPOINTMENTS – Regular orthodontic appointments are necessary to allow us to change / adjust the archwire, change the rubber or metal ties, and make general adjustments or ‘tweaks’ to the braces. Fixed braces work by gradually moving the teeth into a new and proper alignment, so gentle pressure needs to be applied constantly. The first several days after an orthodontic adjustment may be slightly uncomfortable, but remember that this discomfort should go pretty quickly. Please contact us if you are having problems adjusting to your new braces…. we will be happy to help!
