How Will My Mouth Feel After Having Braces Put On?
By Chris Getman | Published on December 27, 2010 | 0 Comments
The good news about orthodontic braces is that having them put on should not hurt a bit. According to Dr. Chris Getman of Getman Orthodontics in Cordova, TN, an experienced orthodontist should be able to bond the brackets and attach the wires without the patient feeling any discomfort whatsoever.
For most patients, however, the real concern is over how they will feel in the days and weeks after having braces put on. A number of myths and misconceptions persist about how it feels to get new braces, but Dr. Getman says that most of the rumors are overblown or simply untrue. Having braces put on requires no shots or anesthesia, and most patients can continue eating their normal foods without any discomfort for up to 24 hours after having braces attached.
It is the morning after a person has had braces put on when he or she is likely to feel a little discomfort. Although some people report no discomfort whatsoever, Dr. Getman cautions patients that they may need to eat soft food for a day or two afterward. The level of discomfort that a patient feels has more to do with his or her own pain tolerance level than with the braces themselves.
Any patient who gets traditional braces should expect that the braces will cause some type of rubbing or soreness in the mouth. This can be easily remedied, however, by placing dental wax over the bracket that is causing the discomfort. Not only does Dr. Getman give all of his orthodontic patients dental wax, but he also shows them how to use it in the most effective way.
For patients who are especially weary of getting traditional braces from an orthodontist, Dr. Getman recommends Invisalign. Invisalign is a series of clear teeth alignment trays that should be removed and changed out once every few weeks. In his experience, Dr. Getman says that patients who get Invisalign trays report far less discomfort in the days and weeks after beginning the treatment than those who opt for traditional braces with brackets and wires.
The reason for this has to do with the speed at which traditional braces move the teeth. Dr. Getman says that traditional braces move teeth very fast at first, whereas Invisalign trays shift the alignment of the teeth in a much more gradual fashion. In fact, Dr. Getman has gotten very few complaints about discomfort or tooth soreness from his patients with Invisalign, which is one of the main reasons he recommends this option to teens and adults.
As an orthodontist, Dr. Getman recommends that patients not let concerns or fears stand in the way of achieving straighter, healthier looking smiles. He encourages patients in the area who are interested in orthodontic treatment to contact his office to learn more about their options.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.