Skip to content 
Braces are a common orthodontic treatment in Fullerton for people who want to improve their smile. However, many patients worry that wearing braces is painful. Do braces hurt? The answer is that while braces may cause some mild pain and discomfort, these are positive indications of movement. In other words, your teeth are being moved into the proper position and this process can be uncomfortable.
Also, patients have varying levels of pain tolerance, so the level of discomfort can vary from person to person. If you have low pain tolerance, you can also opt for other options such as Invisalign or LightForce orthodontics. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to reduce braces pain and make the process more manageable.
Do braces hurt? Here are five ways how to reduce braces pain.
#1 – Use an ice pack.
Applying an ice pack to the area around your braces can do wonders for reducing pain. Place a cold compress along the brackets and wires of your braces. This will help to reduce swelling and numb the area so that you do not experience as much pain.
You can also use other cold items such as an ice lolly or frozen peas. Just make sure that the temperature is not too low, so you do not damage your teeth or gums.
#2 – Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods.
Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can cause the brackets and wires of your braces to loosen or break. This can cause pain and discomfort when you eat, so it is best to avoid these types of foods while wearing braces.
Do braces hurt? Make sure not to bite down too hard on your food as this can cause more pain and discomfort. Cut up your food into small pieces and chew slowly.
#3 – Take over-the-counter pain relief.
If your braces pain is more severe, you can take over-the-counter pain relief medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications will help to reduce inflammation and pain. Just make sure to read the instructions carefully before taking any medications.
Do braces hurt? You can also try alternative therapies such as acupuncture or massage to help relieve pain.
#4 – Wear wax on your braces.
Applying wax to the brackets and wires of your braces will help to reduce irritation and friction. This can do wonders for reducing pain and making the braces more comfortable. Braces wax can be bought at most pharmacies or online and it should be applied before eating and cleaning.
#5 – Gargle with salt and warm water.
Do braces hurt? Gargling with salt and warm water can do wonders for providing temporary relief from braces pain. This is because warm water and salt help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
To do this, mix one teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds. Spit out the water and do not swallow it. Do this 2-3 times a day for best results.
Choose a Trusted Braces Provider
Do braces hurt? If you’re anxious about the pain and discomfort that comes with braces, do your research and find a trusted orthodontist who can provide the care you need. A good provider will be able to answer your questions and help you manage your pain throughout the braces process.
They can also provide you with a fast and efficient treatment while making sure that you do not experience any unnecessary pain. With an excellent orthodontist, they will make sure that your treatment time is not delayed and that the best results are achieved.
By following these tips, do braces hurt? You will be able to find relief from the pain and make your braces experience as comfortable as possible. With the right care and attention, you’ll be able to wear your braces with ease and get the smile you’ve always wanted.
Do braces hurt? Remember that braces pain usually goes away after the first few days. If you do experience any pain, do not hesitate to contact your orthodontist for further advice and treatment.
Best Orthodontist for Braces in Fullerton and Yorba Linda, CA
Looking for a reliable and trusted orthodontist in Fullerton, CA, or Yorba Linda, CA? At Potter Orthodontics, we offer the best braces treatment in Fullerton and use the latest technology to ensure your comfort. Do braces hurt? Our team of experienced professionals will do everything they can to make your experience as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
Dr. Potter is an experienced orthodontist and has been helping patients smile confidently with braces for many years. He graduated Magna Cum Laude and was also inducted into the honorary dental society. Upon completing dental school, he completed a three-year Orthodontic Residency and also earned a Masters’s Degree in Orthodontics at Saint Louis University.
Whether you need metal braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign, Dr. Potter and his team of orthodontic experts are adept in providing quality orthodontic care for kids, teens, and adults. Book a consultation with us today and find out how Dr. Potter can help you get the perfect smile!
