There seems to be a fairly common association between braces and pain for a lot of prospective orthodontic patients—which isn’t necessarily factual! Braces have come a very long way, and Lozman Orthodontics combines technology and top-tier service to ensure your experience is comfortable.
Breaking Down Braces
It’s important to have an understanding of how your braces work before you can understand the sensations that come with wearing them. Here’s a couple of explanations that might be helpful:
- How They Work: Braces operate by applying gentle, continuous pressure to guide teeth into their correct positions gradually. This process stimulates bone remodeling, allowing for movement over time. At Lozman Orthodontics, we specialize in SPEED self-ligating (self-adjusting) metal braces, an advanced system that applies a lighter force while reducing friction.
- Why Is There Soreness?: When pressure is applied to the teeth, the periodontal ligament temporarily compresses, reducing blood flow and triggering a mild inflammatory response. This can lead to short-term soreness, which is completely normal and typically subsides within a few days as your body adjusts.
- An Alternative Approach: You might also consider Invisalign, foregoing braces altogether. Invisalign works in a similar way in terms of applying intentional pressure, but they are made of smooth plastic that rarely causes irritation.
A Peek Into the Past
One of the reasons people have this preconception of braces being uncomfortable is that… some can be! Traditional braces, unlike the ones we currently use, can have some less-than-desirable characteristics:
- Metal Brackets & Elastic Ties: Traditional braces use brackets that require elastic bands or metal ties to hold the archwire in place.
- Higher Friction & Discomfort: The elastic ties create more friction, making adjustments and tooth movement slower and more uncomfortable.
- More Pressure & Tightening: Regular visits to the orthodontist for traditional braces involve manual tightening, which can lead to soreness after each appointment.
- Bulky Design: Older braces were larger and could cause more irritation to sensitive skin inside your cheeks and lips.
A Modern Method
By contrast, our team wants to expand upon why our SPEED self-ligating metal braces are so wonderful compared to a more traditional braces system.
- Reduced force and friction, making treatment more comfortable.
- Fewer and shorter appointments, thanks to the self-adjusting mechanism.
- Potentially faster treatment time due to consistent, easy pressure.
- Better hygiene, as they are easier to clean with fewer components.
SPEED braces use a built-in Spring Clip mechanism to apply continuous force, eliminating the need for additional components like elastic bands. This technology allows for more efficient and comfortable tooth movement while minimizing irritation.
Each time your braces are tightened, your SPEED braces’ Spring Clip adjusts your archwire, so you may notice slight tenderness. Remember that this is a positive sign that your treatment is progressing as expected! Discomfort is temporary and can be managed with simple remedies at home.
Tips for Increased Comfort
As a general rule, your braces should never disrupt your daily life. There are definitely some smart practices you can adopt with your braces to make things run smoothly.
- Stick to a Soft-Bristle Toothbrush: A gentle brush helps keep your teeth clean without adding unnecessary pressure. Consider using an electric toothbrush with a sensitive setting for an even gentler clean. Dr. Robin Lozman can give you the best recommendations for toothbrushes to use.
- Use Orthodontic Wax Strategically: If your braces are ever causing irritation, orthodontic wax can be conveniently applied to create a smooth surface and minimize discomfort. Reapply as needed throughout the day (if there’s damage, this can be used until we see you in the office for your repair).
- Create a Travel Kit: Carry a small bag with orthodontic wax, a toothbrush, floss threaders, lip balm, pain relievers, and a small mirror to check your braces on the go. A small bottle of mouth rinse can also help keep your mouth fresh throughout the day.
- Rinse with Cold Water or Salt Water: A quick swish with cold water can help soothe minor inflammation and soreness, while a saltwater rinse (a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) can aid in healing mouth sores.
- Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Habitually biting on pens, fingernails, or ice can increase discomfort and potentially damage your braces. Be mindful of chewing habits and ask about alternative ways to relieve this impulse.
- Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief if Needed: If discomfort becomes bothersome, conventional mild pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. Always follow our dosage recommendations and consult us if the pain persists or seems unusual.
Life With Lozman Orthodontics
If you’ve been uncertain about stepping into orthodontic treatment due to fears of potential pain, we hope this has helped ease your mind! You’re in amazing hands at Lozman Orthodontics, and we’re proud to serve our Latham community. Don’t forget to contact us to schedule your free consultation.