If your dentist has informed you that you need braces to get your teeth straightened, you might be wondering about the overall orthodontic treatment experience. If you search the internet, you will find one of the most frequently asked questions about braces is “why do braces hurt so much?” If you are also concerned whether braces treatment would be a painful experience, this article is for you. Continue reading to find out why braces hurt and how you can manage the pain.
Why Do My Teeth Hurt With Braces?
You might have heard from your friends or colleagues about the first day braces pain. When one wears braces or removable aligners for the first time, one may experience considerable pain and discomfort. However, this pain does not mean something wrong with your braces. On the contrary, it shows that your treatment is working!
To understand why do braces hurt so much the first week, let us know how braces work.
Braces, also known as orthodontic brackets, are bonded to each tooth using an adhesive. Each bracket contains a slot through which a metallic orthodontic wire passes and connects all the teeth. Your dentist will adjust the tension in the orthodontic wire so that the pressure is transferred to the brackets and then to the roots of the teeth – forcing them to move in the desired direction. The pain you feel because of braces is due to the movement of the tooth roots within the jawbone. However, as the teeth start to move, the pain and discomfort subside. At your next appointment, your dentist will re-tighten the wire – to continue the tooth alignment process – resulting in increased tooth pain for the next few days. In this way, your dentist will force your teeth to move into optimal alignment and occlusion.
How Long Do Braces Hurt?
Your braces may hurt for the first few days or weeks at the beginning of your treatment. However, this pain should subside as your oral cavity, teeth, and jawbone get accustomed to the orthodontic treatment. You may experience braces pain again for a few days after getting your braces tightened at the next checkup appointment.
Braces pain, although an inconvenience, should be taken as a sign that your treatment is working. In fact, you will feel that the alignment of your teeth is improving with each passing day. However, you can reduce this pain by eating a soft diet and ensuring optimal oral hygiene.
