Hello,
One of the major concerns that children, teenagers and adults express to me is their fear and anticipation of pain from getting braces. It’s a misconception that braces are extremely painful, though let me shed some light on this concern in a detailed and honest manner.
Firstly, the experience of pain with braces is subjective and varies from person to person based on pain tolerance, individual dental conditions, and the treatment plan’s complexity. When you first have braces placed, you’ll experience soreness and tenderness as your teeth adjust to the new orthodontic hardware. This discomfort signifies the gradual movement of your teeth into proper alignment, a necessary process for achieving a straight smile.
Throughout your treatment, you’ll visit our clinic for periodic adjustments to your braces. These adjustments involve tightening the wires or changing the bands to continue the teeth-straightening process. While these adjustments are necessary for achieving optimal results, they’ll also cause temporary discomfort.
Managing pain and discomfort is an integral part of your orthodontic journey, and here is my advice:
- Communication is Key: Share your concerns and discomfort with me. I’m trained and experienced to address your specific needs and make adjustments to minimise discomfort. I studied at the University of Sydney not just to understand the technical aspects of being an orthodontist, but also to support your mental and emotional journey during the treatment. You are a human being; not a number, and certainly never a burden.
- Consistent Oral Care: Maintain excellent oral hygiene practices to prevent additional discomfort from gum inflammation or cavities.
- Follow My Instructions: Adhere to all my care instructions to ensure the effectiveness of your treatment and minimise discomfort. If pain persists during the the initial period, I may recommend limited consumption of over-the-counter painkillers such as Panadol or Nurofen. I also regularly recommend dietary changes such as eating softer foods including rice, pasta and mince.
- Patience and Persistence: Remember that the discomfort is temporary and a crucial part of achieving a straight and healthy smile.
Research shows that the level of pain experienced during orthodontic treatment is manageable for most individuals, and diminishes over time as the teeth adjust. It’s not excruciatingly painful, but involves a gradual adjustment process that has moments of minor discomfort.
While pain is an aspect of braces, it’s essential to focus on the positive outcomes such as improved oral health, enhanced self-confidence, and a smile you can truly be proud of. Have confidence that the end result will be well worth the temporary challenges.
Also, orthodontic treatment is not just about straightening teeth; it’s a transformative journey that goes beyond physical changes. As you embark on this path towards a healthier smile, you also cultivate resilience, patience, and determination. These challenges you overcome will not only result in a beautiful smile but also in personal growth and self-empowerment. I truly believe that, and have witnessed it in the lives of my thousands of patients.
The South Coast Orthodontics team and I are committed to providing you with a comfortable and supportive experience. We understand that the decision can be daunting, especially when concerns about pain arise. Rest assured, we’re here to guide you through every step of your journey, ensuring that your comfort and safety are our top priorities.
Contact us for your free first consultation. Together we’ll pursue a new, healthy and confident smile that will last a lifetime.
A little pain, but lots to gain.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Kamal Ahmed
P.S Why did I have pain and need a massage after listening to classical music? Because I got a bach-ache.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are braces painful to get put on?
Most patients at South Coast Orthodontics would agree that getting braces put on is not so painful. The process involves attaching the brackets to your teeth with a special adhesive and then threading the archwire through the brackets. You may feel some pressure or discomfort during this process, but it shouldn’t be overly painful.
2. Are braces painful to wear?
After getting braces put on, you may experience some discomfort or soreness for a few days as your teeth adjust to the pressure. This discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and by eating soft foods. As your teeth begin to shift and move, you may also feel some pressure or soreness, but it shouldn’t be unbearable.
3. Are braces painful to get adjusted?
During routine adjustments, I will tighten the archwire to continue moving your teeth into the desired position. You may feel some pressure or discomfort during this process, but it should only last a few days. Over time, as your teeth continue to shift, you may experience some soreness after adjustments, but it’s usually manageable with pain medication and should subside within a few days. What’s more painful are my dad jokes while you’re on the dental chair.
