How Long Do Braces Hurt?

Are you wondering “how long do braces hurt?” If so, we’re sorry to hear about your pain. Getting braces is something that will be good for your smile in the long run, but they can cause discomfort along the way.

The answer to your question will depend on what kind of pain you’re experiencing. Read on to learn more.

 

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How Long Do Braces Hurt After Placement?

If you just had your braces put on the first time, it’s completely normal to feel some pain. The pressure that your braces are now putting on your teeth can take some time to get used to. The good news is that it’s not permanent. It should stop within 3 to 5 days.

How Long Do Braces Hurt After Checkups?

At your checkups for your braces, your orthodontist will likely tighten the wires. The increase in pressure can lead to a return of pain similar to what happens when you first have your braces put on. Normally, the pain goes away within 3 to 5 days.

How Long Do Braces Hurt Gums, Cheek or Tongue?

Braces can cause pain along your tongue, gum line or the soft tissues along your cheek. This happens when the brackets and wires rub against these delicate tissues. Normally, this pain goes away within 2 to 5 days of when it starts.

Tips for Dealing With Pain From Braces

Now that you know the general answer to the question how long will my braces hurt, try these tips for alleviating the discomfort:

1. Take an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever.

As long as your doctor says it’s okay, ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin or acetaminophen can be used to alleviate pain due to braces. Only take the amount that it says on the bottle unless your doctor gives you other advise.

2. Eat or Drink Something Cold.

A freezer pop or some ice cream can help to temporarily numb your mouth and take away the pain. Of course, you don’t want to overdo it with these sweet treats, but it’s okay to enjoy them sparingly to cool things off. Drinking cold water can also help.

3. Use Orthodontic Wax.

Your orthodontist will likely give you a container full of wax tubes to help deal with rubbing. You can break off small pieces and put it along the wires and brackets to serve as a layer of protection. Make sure that you remove the wax before brushing.

4. Rinse with Saltwater.

Rinsing out your mouth with warm saltwater can help to take away discomfort, particularly soreness due to rubbing. The salt also assists with the healing process, so irritation caused by your braces will clear up faster.

5. Apply Over-the-Counter Oral Anesthetic.

Over-the-counter anesthetics like Anbesol and Orajel can take away pain due to rubbing. They numb the places where you apply them by blocking the nerve signals that conduct pain messages. Make sure that your doctor says it is okay to use one of these products and apply them only as directed for best results.

6. Use an Ice Pack.

Lightly holding an ice pack against your cheek or jaw can help to soothe some of the pain after you have your braces put on or tightened. The ice reduces inflammation and provides numbing benefits.

7. Choose Soft Foods.

Take it easy on that sore mouth by sticking to softer foods for at least a day after you have your braces put on or adjusted. Soups, jello, mashed potatoes, mashed fruit, oatmeal, applesauce and similar foods require less work to chew and are less likely to cause pain as a result.

8. Keep Your Hands Off.

Touching sore spots can make matters worse, so resist the urge to poke at, press on or play with them. That goes double for your tongue! Don’t lick at the spot or press against it, even if you’re tempted.

If you’re wondering “how long do braces hurt” because you’ve been in pain for longer than what’s described in this article, check with your orthodontist. He or she can give you more advice about what to do about the discomfort and may even have you come in for a checkup to double check that everything is fine.

Remember–pain due to braces is annoying but there are things you can do about it, and it won’t last forever!