Braces can help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Whether you’re dealing with crooked teeth, an overbite, underbite, or another malocclusion, this treatment may be just what you need to improve your smile. While braces are effective, they do come with some drawbacks.

Here at Sims Orthodontics, some local patients report discomfort that stems from getting cut by braces. Rest assured that this is a completely normal side effect. When your orthodontist first secures your braces, your mouth will have to get used to them. As a result, you may experience some small cuts and abrasions.

Fortunately, this side effect is almost always temporary. Once your mouth gets used to the braces, cuts and abrasions are unlikely. Eventually, your braces will feel so comfortable that you may even forget they’re there. So how long will this be? Any discomfort you experience including cuts will probably improve within five days. This is when you’ll find eating and speaking to be far easier.

How to Reduce Discomfort

There are a number of ways you can reduce the discomfort that braces may cause. First and foremost, use your finger and tongue to check the wire ends. If you notice any that extend into areas which may poke or rub against your cheek or tongue, inform your orthodontist before you leave their office. In the event you don’t realize this issue until you get home, take a small piece of orthodontic wax and put it around the bracket that’s causing the discomfort.

Also, make sure you understand how to care for your braces at home. Your orthodontist should explain everything clearly and answer any questions you may have. They will probably tell you to brush your teeth twice a day or in between meals and floss daily. You’ll need to visit their office on a regular basis for checkups as well.

In addition to following your orthodontist’s directions, invest in supplies like orthodontic wax and elastic bands to ensure you have what you need between appointments. It’s also important to have soft food options like yogurt, boiled veggies, and thin soups on hand.

If you get home and notice some discomfort, get some rest and take an over-the-counter pain medication like Advil. This should provide fast relief. In the event your discomfort persists for longer than 5 days after you receive your braces, contact your orthodontist right away.

Braces are Worth It

In a perfect world, your mouth wouldn’t feel any different when you first receive braces. Since this is not the case, however, you should be prepared for some discomfort and a short adjustment period. Remember that nothing worth having comes easy and this holds true for straight teeth.

Once you undergo orthodontic treatment, you’ll be left with a beautiful, healthy smile you’re proud to call your own. It’s highly likely that you’ll believe that the initial discomfort was well worth it.

Contact Sims Orthodontics Today

If you have further questions about braces or would like to schedule an appointment at our Pensacola office, don’t hesitate to call us at 850-477-7715. We look forward to welcoming you back!