Braces are a common orthodontic treatment used to correct misaligned teeth. However, it is not uncommon for patients to experience some degree of pain or discomfort during the treatment process. Understanding the reasons behind this pain and knowing what steps to take can help patients better manage this aspect of orthodontic treatment.
Reasons for Braces – Causing Tooth Pain
Initial Adjustment Period
When braces are first put on or after an adjustment appointment, the teeth are subjected to new forces. The braces work by applying gentle but continuous pressure to move the teeth into their desired positions. This sudden change in force can cause the teeth to feel sore. For example, the wire that runs through the brackets on the teeth may be tightened during an adjustment, and this can lead to discomfort. The teeth are essentially being pushed or pulled in new directions, and the surrounding tissues, such as the periodontal ligaments, need to adapt. These ligaments connect the teeth to the bone and are elastic in nature. When the braces exert force on the teeth, the ligaments stretch, which can be a source of pain.
Friction and Pressure Points
Sometimes, the brackets or wires of the braces can create friction against the soft tissues inside the mouth, like the cheeks or tongue. This can cause irritation and pain. In addition, there may be pressure points where the braces are in contact with the teeth. If a bracket is not properly placed or if the wire is bent in a way that it presses too hard on a particular tooth, it can lead to localized pain. For instance, a sharp edge of a wire can dig into the gum or the side of a tooth, causing discomfort.
Oral Hygiene and Tooth Sensitivity
Poor oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment can also contribute to tooth pain. Plaque and tartar can build up more easily around braces because they create additional surfaces and crevices for bacteria to accumulate. This can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis) or even more severe periodontal disease. Inflamed gums can make the teeth more sensitive, and any pressure from the braces can then cause pain. Additionally, if there is decay starting on a tooth that has braces, it can also be a source of pain as the braces may exacerbate the sensitivity of the affected tooth.
Immediate Steps to Alleviate Pain
Over – the – Counter Pain Relievers
Taking over – the – counter pain medications can be an effective first step in relieving braces – related tooth pain. Non – steroidal anti – inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are commonly recommended. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the tissues around the teeth. For example, if the periodontal ligaments are inflamed due to the force of the braces, ibuprofen can help reduce this inflammation and thus relieve pain. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult a doctor or dentist if there are any concerns or pre – existing medical conditions.
Cold Compresses
Applying a cold compress to the outside of the face near the area of pain can also be helpful. This can be done by using a cold pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a thin towel. The cold helps to numb the area and reduce swelling. When the teeth are experiencing pain from the braces, the cold compress can constrict the blood vessels in the area, which in turn reduces the amount of fluid that accumulates around the teeth and ligaments. This can provide temporary relief from the pain.
Soft Diet
Switching to a soft diet can also ease the pain. Foods that are easy to chew, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and pudding, put less pressure on the teeth. Avoiding hard, crunchy foods like nuts, hard candies, and raw vegetables for a short period can prevent further irritation to the teeth. For example, biting into a hard apple when the teeth are already sore from braces can cause additional pain, while consuming a bowl of warm oatmeal is much gentler on the teeth.
Long – Term Solutions and Precautions
Contacting the Orthodontist
If the pain persists for more than a few days or is extremely severe, it is important to contact the orthodontist. The orthodontist can check for any problems with the braces, such as a loose bracket, a broken wire, or improper alignment. They may need to make adjustments to the braces to relieve the pain. For example, if a wire is poking into the gum, the orthodontist can trim or reposition it. In some cases, they may need to adjust the overall force being applied to the teeth to ensure that it is within a tolerable range.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment to prevent pain related to dental problems. Brushing the teeth thoroughly with a soft – bristled toothbrush at least twice a day is essential. Special care should be taken to clean around the brackets and wires of the braces. Flossing can be a bit more challenging with braces, but using a floss threader can help. By keeping the teeth and gums clean, the risk of gum disease and tooth decay is reduced, which in turn can prevent pain associated with these conditions.
Using Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax can be a useful tool to relieve pain caused by braces rubbing against the cheeks or lips. The wax can be applied to the brackets or wires that are causing irritation. It acts as a buffer between the braces and the soft tissues, reducing friction. For example, if a bracket on the back tooth is constantly rubbing against the cheek, a small piece of orthodontic wax can be molded over the bracket to make it more comfortable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, experiencing pain when wearing braces is a normal part of the orthodontic treatment process, but there are steps that can be taken to manage and relieve this pain. By understanding the reasons for the pain and following the appropriate immediate and long – term solutions, patients can have a more comfortable experience during their orthodontic treatment.
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