Do Braces Hurt? Dispelling Myths About Braces

We all know that braces are one of the best ways to transform your smile, but they can also be intimidating. You may think of a mouthful of metal and a long, drawn-out process. However, today’s orthodontic technology has come a long way - and getting braces has become one of today's most common dental procedures.

One common question that many have is, "Do braces hurt?" And while no orthodontist can guarantee a completely pain-free experience, most people report that the process is very manageable and far less uncomfortable than expected.

To help put some of your braces-related anxieties to rest, here's a breakdown of what you can expect when getting braces.

Braces are commonly made of metal, ceramic, or a combination of both. Metal braces are the most common type, and they’re typically made from a stainless steel alloy which is durable enough to withstand years of adjustment.

Ceramic braces, on the other hand, blend in with your teeth and can be less noticeable than other types. They’re also less prone to staining if you have a habit of consuming colored beverages or foods.

In some cases, you can opt for invisible aligners like Invisalign. These trays are made from clear, smooth plastic and fit snugly over your teeth without needing wires or brackets. However, these require very good compliance from the patients.

No matter what type of braces you have, the real action begins from the moment you get them.

When it comes to planning out your treatment plan for braces, your orthodontist will first take X-rays and dental impressions of your teeth in order to create a personalized plan for you. Once the braces are ready, they’ll be applied to each individual tooth using adhesive cement. While this process may feel strange at first, it’s rather quick and painless.

You may also experience some soreness in your teeth from wearing the braces. After all, your teeth are slowly being shifted into their new positions. Your orthodontist may be able to provide you with some wax or a pain reliever, such as ibuprofen, to help manage the discomfort. Just think of the pain as a reminder of your progress!

But here's the secret: our bodies are incredible at getting used to new situations. In just a few days, it's likely that your mouth and jaw will adjust to the braces, and you won’t even notice them anymore.

Getting braces is a serious commitment, and you’ll want to make sure you get the most out of them. There are some simple steps that you can take to ensure your braces last as long as possible:

1. Eat healthy foods: Foods that are high in sugar, carbs, and acid can damage the enamel of your teeth especially around the braces.
2. Avoid sticky foods: Chewy, sticky snacks like chewing gum or jerky can get stuck between the brackets and wires. If you must indulge, make sure to use a toothpick to remove any remnants.
3. Visit your orthodontist regularly: Keeping up with regular check-ups and adjustments is key to making sure the braces work properly and don’t get damaged.
4. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth multiple times daily to keep plaque and bacteria away from your braces.

At the end of the day, getting braces doesn’t have to be a scary experience. With the right preparation and care, you can make sure your teeth look their absolute best in no time! Remember - it’s all about taking one step at a time and being kind to yourself.

At Pinsak and Sayania Orthodontics, we are passionate about helping Monroe and surrounding communities achieve the best oral health possible. We understand that getting braces can be intimidating, and our team is here to ensure you have a seamless experience from start to finish!

Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment. Our dedicated orthodontists are ready to help your smile shine!