Is Orthodontic Treatment Painful?

Many orthodontic patients fear experiencing some level of pain during their treatment. We understand it can be tough to enter this situation at first, and we want to give you a better idea of what to expect. Our Straight Smiles Orthodontics team will give you an answer on whether orthodontic treatment is painful. 

We want to preface this subject by reminding you that you’re in very good hands during your treatment journey. Our all-star Michigan team will always address any discomfort you may encounter with the greatest attention and care! 

Where Discomfort Can Occur

During your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Tom or Dr. Nicholas Rafaill, we can say one thing for sure: You will have some manner of permanent or removable appliance in your mouth, which will be unfamiliar at the very least! If there is some discomfort, these are the circumstances where it’s most likely to be: 

  • Initial Stages: When you’re first fitted for braces or aligners, you’ll have a period of adjustment. Remember that your teeth are actually moving, and that can result in a bit of soreness. 
  • After Adjustments: Our team will periodically tighten and adjust traditional braces as part of continuous treatment. It can create a bit of pressure, which can result in a dull ache. 
  • Brackets and Wires: Brackets and wires can rub against your inner cheeks or lips, causing sores or irritation.
  • Rubber Bands/Accessories: We use rubber bands to correct bite alignment, which can result in additional tension in the mouth and lead to discomfort in the teeth and jaws. The same can be said for appliances like palatal expanders, headgear, or the Carriere Motion Appliance. 
  • Clear Aligners: Likewise, your clear aligners might feel a bit tight each time you shift to a new pair of trays. This is by design, of course, but any discomfort should fade in a day or two. 
  • More Serious Issues: When you experience real pain instead of mild discomfort, never ignore it. It could signal damage to your appliance. Be sure to come see us so we can make repairs.

Again, there is a difference between being uncomfortable and being in pain. We’ll want to address both, but the latter is more serious.

Managing Discomfort

The good news is that if you do encounter irritation or discomfort, there are lots of excellent solutions for various circumstances.

  • Orthodontic Wax: This product is nothing short of miraculous! You can apply it to brackets, wires, or other areas of irritation to provide a barrier from the soft tissues of your mouth. You can use this wax by rolling it into a ball and pressing it to the area of concern. Be sure you carry some with you at all times if you have braces. 
  • Pain Relievers: Using ibuprofen or acetaminophen are both reliable ways to help manage pain and inflammation, which could flare after an adjustment. This can be especially effective if taken prior to your appointment. If you have allergies to either of these medications, let us know.
  • Saltwater Rinse: Try mixing a cup of warm water with a teaspoon of salt and rinsing with it for about thirty seconds. This can help with any open cuts or ulcers you may have, helping with discomfort and encouraging faster healing.
  • Cold Compress: A cold compress can be very soothing and help reduce swelling. Wrap an ice pack in cloth against your cheek or jaw for 10-15 minute increments to numb the pain.
  • Soft Foods: Our Straight Smiles Orthodontics team recommends that you avoid hard or crunchy foods with braces. If your teeth are super sensitive, try opting for foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, or smoothies. This can help make eating a comfortable experience. 
  • Chewing Gum: Sugar-free gum (that we approve) can help promote blood flow to the gums and relieve some soreness. 
  • Pain Relief Gels: Orthodontic pain relief gels are available over-the-counter, 
  • containing ingredients like benzocaine (an oral anesthetic). This can be applied directly to areas that are causing issues and give you some relief.
  • Stay Hydrated: This tip applies to your health outside of orthodontic treatment, but it’s also a great way to fight dry mouth. 

Is Orthodontic Treatment Painful?

Nothing You Can’t Handle!

Straight Smile Orthodontics is nothing like other practices. We’re the longest-running and family-owned orthodontic practice in Michigan, and unlike corporate practices, we take the time to ensure our patients receive the care they need when things don’t feel quite right! So please never hesitate to let us know if you have questions or concerns about your treatment. We’re here to support you in Shelby Township, Novi, and Rochester Hill.