In the days following the start of orthodontic treatment, it is very common to experience certain discomfort and pain that will gradually disappear. However, and due to the common fact that the vast majority of traditional orthodontic wearers report the same type of problem, there are multiple tips aimed at alleviating the pain derived from the placement of the brackets.
Don't suffer these discomforts if you can act on them. We tell you everything you need to know about the care that traditional orthodontic appliances require in this first stage of adaptation.
How long does the pain last after braces?
Braces are an excellent solution to correct the different developmental problems of the dentofacial structures. Far beyond the esthetic issue, one of the most important aspects of one of the most important aspects of orthodontics is the improvement of the bite when the teeth do not have the right position.
The period of adaptation of a person after the placement of the brackets usually lasts between 7 and 10 days on average. The discomfort felt by the patient will be variable, mainly due to the pressure exerted by the appliance on the teeth, as well as the rubbing of the brackets against the mucous membranes.
It will depend on the professional who has placed them, the type of adjustment that is necessary, and of course, also on the patient's pain threshold. It is advisable to wait at least 2 or 3 days and if the pain does not subside, the corresponding adjustments can be made.
These first days are the most uncomfortable, but with the passage of time the discomfort will diminish. The sensation that at the beginning is so unpleasant, will pass to a second plane when the denture adapts to the new element placed in the oral cavity.
How to get used to braces?
You don't have to suffer if you know how to alleviate the pain generated by braces during the adaptation period. Although the duration of the entire treatment can be several months, the discomfort will eventually subside and disappear completely in a matter of days.
It is during this first stage when you can act in order to solve the friction, wounds and pressure of the brackets on the teeth, mucosa and jaw area.
The first thing will always be to detect the problems present, and thus act correctly on them to lighten the adaptation process.
How to relieve the pain of recent braces
In just a few days, the most common thing is to notice that the appliance is adjusting to the mouth to regain normality. Little by little the sensation will be that of not wearing anything at all, living a completely normal life.
It is the hours after braces are placed that are the hardest to overcome. Let's see how to alleviate the pain after the placement of the brackets, and even how to prevent some discomfort that may arise.
Eating soft foods
One of the best guidelines to follow to avoid dental pain after the placement of braces is to opt for soft foods, so that the jaw is not forced when chewing or biting. This is a piece of advice that orthodontists always give when they leave the office, combining this type of food with analgesic medication prescribed by a professional to get you through those first few difficult hours.
Avoiding tension and stress
Although it can be very complicated, in these delicate moments it is important to control stress. The greater the feeling of stress, the more tension will accumulate in the jaw, becoming really uncomfortable. Don't hesitate to practice your relaxation exercises, or even take a few extra days of peace and quiet.
Avoid dangerous sports
Of course, until complete adaptation of the brackets, it is totally counterproductive to engage in sports or physical activities that pose a risk of blow or injury to the face . The ideal is to wait between 3 and 7 days before returning to play team sports.
Using orthodontic wax
If you start to feel discomfort from rubbing and do not know how to relieve pain in delicate areas such as the cheeks or lips, you will find a good ally in orthodontic wax. It is a product that helps soothe occasional discomfort by applying it directly to the bracket or wire that rubs.
Extreme oral hygiene
In addition to wax to cover the brackets, there are other products products that are very effective in the exclusive care of oral hygiene in patients with orthodontic appliances. One example is the OrthoKINline, consisting of toothpaste and Mouthwash, which makes it much easier for you to remove dental plaque, even in the most difficult to reach areas.
When wearing orthodontics, and especially in the case of braces, it is necessary to be extremely hygienic during the first few days, to prevent possible wounds and discomfort from worsening.
My teeth do not hurt with braces, is this normal?
Yes, this possibility is also absolutely normal. Although it is commonly said that braces hurt after placement, not all patients have to go through this.
Some people never have any pain or discomfort, not even on the first day of treatment, and others only notice it during the moments after the brackets are placed and then feel nothing more.
You may not feel anything and you may doubt whether your teeth are repositioning and whether the treatment is being effective. Don't worry, both things don't have to be related.
Whether you want to know more about how to alleviate post-bracket pain or if you have doubts because you don't feel any discomfort, the best thing to do is to discuss it directly with your orthodontist at your next appointment. There's no one better than him or her to explain first-hand how your treatment is progressing!
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