Braces are a long-term process that typically lasts from 2 to 3 years. During this time, you will experience various states and different issues such as toothaches or difficulties in eating. In this article, Nha khoa Champion will list some common signs to look out for when you first get braces to help you prepare mentally and have a better experience during the orthodontic treatment.
Common signs when you first get braces
Mild toothaches and sensitivity
When you get braces, you will experience some initial signs such as a tingling sensation and mild toothaches. Especially when separators are placed, you will feel a dull pain and tightness between the teeth due to the pressure from the separators. After the brackets are attached, you may experience slight soreness.
The level of pain may vary depending on each person's pain tolerance. People with a lower pain threshold may feel more discomfort, while those with higher pain tolerance may only experience mild soreness. Generally, the pain will last for a few days after the braces are tightened and then gradually decrease
Always have a feeling of discomfort
When a foreign object appears in the mouth, even with braces, anyone will feel uncomfortable and restricted. When separators are placed or when brackets and orthodontic appliances are attached, you will feel the discomfort and uneasiness of having an unfamiliar object in your mouth.
However, this feeling will gradually disappear after about 3-5 days or possibly take more than a week. You will no longer feel uncomfortable with the presence of braces in your mouth once you have adapted to them.
Scratches on the mouth and gums
This is a concern for almost everyone after getting braces due to the presence of braces in the mouth. Since braces have the characteristics of metal, it is inevitable to cause scratches when placed in sensitive soft tissues such as lips, cheeks, or tongue.
To reduce friction with the mouth, you can use some types of orthodontic wax to apply on the braces. Additionally, you can also choose advanced orthodontic methods with clear aligners to minimize these scratches.
Difficulty in chewing
When wearing braces and using orthodontic appliances, chewing food can become more difficult, and the sensation of chewing may not be as enjoyable as before. To minimize the difficulty when newly getting braces, you can cut food into small pieces, chew slowly, or choose soft foods. Furthermore, if you are using clear aligners, you can remove them while eating to be able to eat normally without braces.
Bad breath issue
Bad breath is a condition that can affect aesthetics and make you feel uncomfortable. Especially in the early stages when you are not yet accustomed to wearing braces and maintaining oral hygiene, bad breath can occur.
To avoid this situation, it is crucial to follow the oral hygiene instructions from your orthodontist and use dental hygiene tools such as dental floss and water irrigators. This helps you maintain oral hygiene easily and ensure cleanliness.
Jaw soreness and discomfort
When initially wearing orthodontic appliances and aligners to move teeth, it is inevitable to experience jaw soreness and temporomandibular joint discomfort. To help alleviate this sensation, you can drink warm water and gently massage the temporomandibular joint area, cheek area, etc.
Appearance of subtle changes in the face
When wearing braces for a period of 3 to 6 months, your teeth and face will undergo minor changes. Teeth will gradually shift to the correct position, especially addressing issues like gaps or misalignment. Along with positive changes in the teeth, the face will also undergo transformations. The lips, chin, and nose will appear more harmonious and balanced due to the adjustment of the jawbone ratio.
Note: During the orthodontic treatment process, if you experience prolonged pain, swelling lasting more than 7 days without relief, or more severe symptoms, it is important to promptly visit your dentist.
Ways to reduce pain and discomfort when getting braces
Over time, the initial symptoms of getting braces can gradually diminish. However, to help alleviate these discomforts when getting braces, you can apply the following methods.
Hot and cold compresses
Using hot and cold compresses can effectively reduce the discomfort after getting braces. Applying a cold compress can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. If you experience swelling, using a warm compress can effectively reduce it.
Warm saltwater rinses
Warm saltwater rinses have antimicrobial properties and can improve blood circulation. This can significantly reduce soreness and any oral injuries. When experiencing discomfort, you can rinse your mouth with a diluted saltwater solution.
Dental wax
When in contact with braces and archwires during orthodontic treatment, it's possible to experience irritation on the cheeks and tongue. To minimize this impact on soft tissues, you can use dental wax to apply onto the braces and archwires.
It's also crucial to adhere to the oral care instructions provided by the orthodontist. Maintain proper oral hygiene after each meal, use water flossers and dental floss to clean between teeth, and ensure thorough dental hygiene to minimize the risk of cavities.
>> See more: The benefits of orthodontic bracket placement, and is it painful?
Safe and reputable braces treatment at Champion Dental Clinic
Champion Dental Clinic is a specialized orthodontic center with experienced orthodontists who continuously enhance their skills through international training programs. This enables the orthodontists to detect even the slightest irregularities and create accurate and optimized treatment plans for each case.
Throughout the treatment process, the orthodontists at Champion Dental Clinic closely monitor the progress, promptly address any issues, and provide guidance and encouragement for patients to adapt to the orthodontic appliances. Upon completion of the orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will design an appropriate retention plan and provide instructions on how to maintain the results long-term.
With the information provided about the initial symptoms of getting braces, it is hoped that you will have an overview and be prepared for possible situations during the braces journey. The braces journey may present difficulties and challenges, but with your patience and effort, it will be rewarded with a healthy, radiant, and confident smile.
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