Isabella Watson is a mom of three braces-wearing teens. She shares her family's experiences and tips for managing braces. Isabella's writing is relatable and full of practical advice.
Yes, it's absolutely normal for your teeth to hurt when you bite down with braces, especially in the initial stages. This discomfort is a sign that your braces are doing their job - moving your teeth into their correct positions. Let's dive into why this happens, how long it lasts, and what you can do to manage the discomfort.
Why Does Biting Down with Braces Feel Like a Toothache? 🤔
Braces work by applying continuous pressure on your teeth to gradually shift them. When you first get your braces, or after they've been adjusted, your teeth start moving, which can cause some discomfort. The pain you experience when biting down is due to the pressure on your teeth and the inflammation in your gums and mouth tissues. You can read more about this process in our article Cutting Edge Braces: How the Science of Orthodontics Moves Your Teeth.
When Will My Teeth Stop Throwing a Braces Party? 📅
Typically, the discomfort lasts for a few days to a week after the braces are placed or adjusted. However, everyone is different, and the duration can vary. If the pain persists for more than two weeks, it's advisable to consult your orthodontist.
Taming the Braces Beast: How to Manage Discomfort 🦷
1. Your New BFFs: Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers 💊
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage the pain. Ensure you follow the dosage instructions on the packaging, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
2. Chill Out: The Magic of a Cold Compress ❄️
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and provide relief. You can use a store-bought cold pack or make one at home by wrapping ice cubes in a cloth.
3. Smooth Sailing with Orthodontic Wax 🕯️
Orthodontic wax can be applied to the braces to prevent them from rubbing against the inside of your mouth. This helps to reduce irritation and discomfort. Check out our guide Keeping Your Braces in Top Shape: How to Put Wax on Braces for more tips.
4. Embrace the Soft Side: Foods That Play Nice with Braces 🍨
Sticking to a diet of soft foods can also help reduce discomfort. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that can exacerbate the pain. You can find a list of suggested foods in our article The Balancing Act: What Foods You Can and Can't Enjoy With Braces.
To manage braces discomfort, there are several options available. One effective solution is to apply orthodontic wax to the braces to prevent them from rubbing against the inside of your mouth. This helps alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by the braces.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Another way to reduce discomfort is by sticking to a diet of soft foods. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that can exacerbate the pain. Remember, getting braces is a step towards a healthier, more beautiful smile. The discomfort is temporary, but the results are long-lasting.
Remember, getting braces is a step towards a healthier, more beautiful smile. The discomfort is temporary, but the results will last a lifetime. If you're experiencing severe or prolonged pain, don't hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist.
Managing Braces Discomfort Quiz
Test your knowledge about managing braces discomfort.
Learn more about 📝 Take the Managing Braces Discomfort Quiz or discover other Braces Pros quizzes.
Recommended Products
Our Recommendation Excedrin Extra Strength Pain Relief Caplets For Headache Relief, Temporarily Relieves Minor Aches And Pains Due To Headache - 200 Count
$17.12 
Our Recommendation Advil PM Liqui-Gels Pain Reliever and Nighttime Sleep Aid, Pain Medicine with Ibuprofen for Pain Relief and Diphenhydramine HCL for a Sleep Aid - 2x80 Liquid Filled Capsules
$24.02
Our Recommendation Comfytemp Large Ice Pack for Back Pain Relief, Reusable Gel Back Ice Pack Wrap for Lower Back Pain, Sciatica Pain Relief, Cold Compress for Lumbar Back Injuries, Sciatic Nerve, Coccyx, Herniated Disc
$25.49
Our Recommendation 100 Packs - Instant Cold Pack - Disposable Instant Ice Packs for Injuries | Cold Compress Ice Pack for Pain Relief, Swelling, First Aid, Toothache, Perineal Ice Packs for Postpartum, 6 x 4.5 in
$64.95
Our Recommendation Dr. Scholl’s® Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotic Insoles, Immediately Relieves Pain: Heel, Spurs, Arch Support, Distributes Foot Pressure, Trim to Fit Shoe Inserts: Women's Size 6-10, 1 Pair
$12.95
Our Recommendation Magic Gel Ice Pack for Back Pain Relief | 2 Pack Lower Back Wrap for Hot or Cold Therapy | Relief for Lower Lumbar, Sciatic Nerve, Herniated or Degenerative Disc, Coccyx, Tailbone Pain
$19.99
Our Recommendation Forensic Files Season 16
Our Recommendation Percogesic Backache Relief Pain Reliever, Maximum Strength, 48 Safety Coated Tablets
$8.06
Our Recommendation Amoxicillin: The Ultimate Guide to Deal with Pneumonia, Respiratory Tract Infections, Urinary Tract Infections, Otitis Media, Tooth Infections and Many More Using Antibiotics Amoxicillin: The Ultimate Guide to Deal with Pneumonia, Respiratory Tract Infections, Urinary Tract Infections, Otitis Media, Tooth Infections and Many More Using Antibiotics
$22.99
Our Recommendation Amazon Basic Care Ibuprofen Tablets 200 mg, Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer, Body Aches, Headache, Arthritis Relief and More, 500 Count
$10.03
Our Recommendation Cold/Hot Therapy Socks - 6 Gel Packs/Pair, Compression Strap Plantar Faciitis - Arch Support - Foot Pain Relief - Neuropathy - Achilles - Storage Bag For Woman/Man - Foot Health (Small/Medium)
$25.95
Our Recommendation Amazon Basic Care Naproxen Sodium Caplets 220 mg, Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer (NSAID), Muscular Aches, Backache, Headache, Toothache, Minor Arthritis Pain Relief and More, 300 Count
$13.79
Our Recommendation DUKUSEEK Neck Ice Pack with Straps, Upgraded Looped Lycra Fabric Reusable Gel Ice Pack Wrap for Neck Cervical, Hot Cold Compress for Pain Relief, Injuries, Swelling, Post Surgery Recovery
$24.98
Our Recommendation REVIX Ice Wraps for Knee Pain Relief Reusable, Knee Ice Pack with Cold Compress Therapy for Knee Replacement Surgery, Injuries, Swelling, Bruises and Arthritis, Black
$19.99
Our Recommendation Rester's Choice Gel Cold & Hot Packs (2-Piece Set) Medium 5x10 in. Reusable Warm or Ice Packs for Injuries, Hip, Shoulder, Knee, Back Pain – Hot & Cold Compress for Swelling, Bruises, Surgery
$13.79
Our Recommendation Reusable Hot Foot & Cold Ice Pack Wrap for Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Spurs, Arch Pain, Sore Feet, Swelling - Two Sizes - HSA or FSA Eligible
$27.95
Our Recommendation Rapid Relief Large Reusable Gel Cold Compress - Comfortable Flex Ice Packs for Back, Knee, Shoulder, Muscle Aches, and Body Pain Relief 8” x 12” Large
$10.99
Our Recommendation Advil Dual Action Back Pain Caplets Delivers 250mg Ibuprofen and 500mg Acetaminophen Per Dose for 8 Hours of Back Pain Relief - 144 Count
$15.97
Our Recommendation Aleve Pain Relief and Nighttime Sleep Aid, Naproxen Sodium Caplets, 120 Count
$23.20
Our Recommendation Instant Cold Pack With Puttee, Ice Packs for Injuries Reusable, Cold Compress for Pain Relief, Swelling, Inflammation, Sprains, Toothache, Perfect for Outdoor Activities, Athletes. 4*6 Inches, 25 Pack
$23.59
People also asked
Braces Pros Articles
All Rights Reserved © 2024