Everyone has different levels of sensitivity to pain. Orthodontic treatment will occasionally be uncomfortable, but don’t let it be a cause for concern! It’s a normal part of the process, and doesn’t usually last very long.
Here at Greater Vancouver Orthodontics, we like to keep our patients informed about what to expect while wearing braces. We’re not going to pretend that you won't ever experience any discomfort during your orthodontic treatment.
In fact, some discomfort, pain and soreness is a standard part of the proceedings! The structure of your smile is changing after all, and there are times when you'll feel it.
That said, don't expect to suffer throughout your whole treatment! Most of the discomfort you feel will be very transitory, lasting only momentarily, a few hours, or at most a few days, before wearing off.
When will I feel pain during treatment?
You'll feel discomfort during your treatment mostly during transition points. This will happen when the braces are first placed, and also during and shortly after your adjustment appointments.
The type of pain you experience during these times will be of a mild, achy variety, and with some ice and maybe an over-the-counter painkiller or two, it shouldn’t last for more than a few days at most.
Damaged Appliances
When orthodontic appliances become damaged they can cause some pain. Usually, it’s more of an irritation than actual pain.
If, for example, a wire becomes loose, it may irritate the inside of your cheek. If this happens, bend the wire back with a spoon or another small blunt object, to get it out of the way. Then contact our office and make an appointment to have the problem wire repaired.
More serious injuries and damage can also occur. If you believe you have an orthodontic emergency, or if you're experiencing unusual levels of pain that can’t be dealt with with any of the above methods, call our office as soon as possible, and we’ll make some room in our schedule to help!