At Berwick Orthodontic Specialists, one of the most common questions patients ask Dr Theresia Sudjalim during their initial consultation, is if their braces’ treatment will hurt.
Orthodontic braces are the most common treatment option at our practice for people with misaligned teeth or a misaligned bite. Braces involve the use of brackets which, are applied to the front of the teeth and wires that connect each bracket together, and in some cases elastic bands. Over time, your orthodontist will adjust the tension in the wire of your braces to gradually shift the teeth into the correct alignment.
While this is an effective way to achieve a straighter, healthier smile, some patients worry about whether orthodontic braces will be painful. It’s not uncommon for patients to experience some discomfort when their braces have first been applied. There are many reasons for this, such as the newly added pressure on the teeth.
In some cases, your braces may rub on your lips or gums in the early stages of having braces, which can be uncomfortable for some patients. However, this rubbing typically subsides within 2 weeks of your braces being applied. If you are experiencing discomfort from your braces rubbing, Dr Sudjalim can provide you with some special orthodontic wax, which will smooth any edges of the braces that may be rubbing on the inside of your mouth.
When you are undergoing braces treatment, there are also several tips Dr Sudjalim recommends in order to avoid complications with your braces that may cause pain and discomfort.
Avoiding foods that are hard, crunchy, or sticky is an important tip for managing braces-related pain and discomfort. These kinds of foods can easily cause discomfort or damage to the braces. So, it’s best to stick to foods that are soft, easy to chew, and won’t put too much pressure on braces or teeth.
In addition to avoiding foods, it’s also essential to ensure that you maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment. The proper brushing and flossing of the teeth can be made more difficult by braces, which can result in plaque buildup and tooth decay. If you do have tooth decay or plaque building, you may experience pain and discomfort.
If you’re concerned about pain during braces treatment, or would just like to talk to a professional who can give you the best advice on treatment, we recommend booking in a consultation with our specialist orthodontist Dr Theresia Sudjalim. She can help guide you on any questions you have about braces treatment, including what to expect when you have your braces on, and how to care for them throughout treatment.