What To Expect When Getting Braces For The First Time

Orthodontists might employ braces as an orthodontic treatment to straighten up crooked or crowded teeth. An overbite can also be corrected with braces. People receiving braces soon or thinking about getting them may be concerned about how painful they are.

Everyone is different, but most people feel some discomfort for a few days after getting braces for the first time and after tightening them. Others may feel a slight discomfort that passes quickly.

Keep reading for additional details on whether braces hurt and what to expect while wearing them.

Do They Hurt?

Braces themselves are not sore, but when your teeth begin to move, and your gums are sensitive, you can feel discomfort for a few days until your teeth and gums settle down. 

Before getting braces, some people might need to wear separators (also known as spacers) between their teeth for a week or two. These spacers could feel tight and painful for a few days, similar to when food gets lodged between the teeth, but the discomfort should subside.

The first time an orthodontist places braces, most people don’t feel any pain right away. An orthodontist frequently bands the rear molars. This procedure is not painful, although it may cause some temporary discomfort because it applies pressure and may pinch.

You can ask your orthodontist for dental wax to help you deal with discomfort in your gums. This wax can be placed on top of the brackets to prevent the metal from rubbing against your gums and cheeks. 

What To Expect In Your First Week

The following are a few things to anticipate throughout the first week:

• The metal brackets pushing against the inside of the cheeks can cause sore gums.
• Cuts on the tongue if the wearer uses their tongue to feel the braces.
• Your teeth and mouth will be sore, especially when chewing food.
• You may get headaches behind your eyes
• Lockjaw
• Swelling around your jaw and chin area

People may stop noticing their braces after some time when their body becomes used to them. However, the orthodontist must tighten the braces occasionally for them to function.