Considering undergoing orthodontic treatment can be somewhat intimidating. There are more types of orthodontic appliance available to the average patient today than there has been in the past. One of the most frequently requested options today is the clear aligner. These plastic trays fit over your teeth and gently adjust their position over time. Traditional braces are also still commonly used. Traditional braces can manage adjustments that aren’t possible with clear aligners. They’re also used for younger patients or those who may not keep the clear aligner in. Regardless of the type of orthodontic appliance being used, some discomfort is possible. This discomfort typically occurs within the first two weeks of treatment and is easy to manage.
Techniques To Ease Orthodontic Discomfort After Your Treatment
While it’s not uncommon for patients to report some degree of discomfort immediately after receiving their orthodontic appliance, it rarely requires treatment. In almost every instance, the discomfort will pass without any kind of intervention. Some patients will request over-the-counter medications to help reduce the swelling and ease the associated pain. Even in these cases, the pain will generally fade within fourteen days of the procedure. If you’re among those who require a little help getting past this initial period, consider the following:
- NSAIDs – These medications address inflammation and swelling. It is from their ability to ease these issues that they get their name “Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs.” These symptoms are the most commonly reported following orthodontic treatment. They occur as the tissues become irritated from the pressure being applied by the appliance. The tissues in the mouth may also become irritated by the appliance itself. NSAIDs will help ease this irritation.
- Analgesics – While NSAIDs address the underlying cause of the pain, analgesics provide relief through another mechanism. These medications work by reducing the body’s ability to perceive the presence of pain. While the pain is not eliminated, it can become more tolerable through the use of analgesics like acetaminophen. In many cases, the combination of NSAIDs and analgesics will completely eliminate the source of the pain.
- Cold Therapy – When cold is applied to the body’s tissues, it helps to soothe inflammation and swelling. Since the source of the swelling and inflammation is in the oral cavity, drinking cold drinks can help. You can also eat ice cream, cold puddings, or simply apply a cold pack to the affected area. What’s important is that the cold treatment is only applied for 15 minutes at a time. Any longer and you can start to harm the tissues.
- Dietary Restrictions – When we eat, it can put a lot of pressure on the orthodontic appliance. Foods that are chewy, crunchy, or exceptionally hard are common culprits. These types of food can irritate the gums and other tissues the appliances are attached to. It pays to take a little caution when choosing meals and snacks while you have orthodontic appliances in.
A Final Note On Orthodontic Pain
One important note about post-orthodontic pain. Pain can be an indicator of many dental concerns, especially when it’s persistent. To get the best possible results, it’s essential that you report any discomfort to your dentist, even if it seems mild. This pain may point to underlying concerns.