Do braces hurt?

The camera is removable and stationary.

To begin with, let's remind you that braces can come in two forms: removable and fixed braces. Removable braces and fixed braces differ primarily in the way they are used and anchored in the oral cavity.

The removable apparatus is a device that the patient can put on and take off independently. It consists of metal elements, such as wires and buckles, which are mounted on a plastic base. This type of appliance is often used to treat younger patients or in cases where it is only necessary to gently shift the teeth. With the possibility of self-removal, the removable apparatus is easier to keep clean, and the patient has more control over the wearing time.

The fixed apparatus, in turn, is permanently fixed in the oral cavity. It consists of locks glued to the teeth and wires that are joined to gradually move the teeth to the desired location. The fixed appliance is more effective in the treatment of more complicated orthodontic cases, as it provides continuous action on the teeth without interruption in wear. Due to the fact that it is permanently fixed, it requires care in maintaining hygiene, and cleaning the teeth and the apparatus becomes more time-consuming. Permanent braces are usually preferred for the treatment of patients who require more intensive and long-term orthodontic treatment.

Putting a fixed brace on your teeth — step by step

Putting a permanent appliance on your teeth is a precise process that usually requires several visits to the orthodontist. Here are the main stages of this process:

1. Preparation of teeth — teeth must be properly prepared before putting on the appliance. This often includes cleaning and drying them thoroughly to ensure that the appliance adheres well to the surface of the teeth. In some cases, the orthodontist can also perform minimal cosmetic procedures, such as aligning the edges of the teeth.

2. Application of locks - each tooth on which the apparatus is to be fixed receives a small permanently fixed element called a lock. The lock is a small rectangular piece of metal or ceramic, which is glued to the surface of the tooth with a special orthodontic glue. The orthodontist makes sure that each lock is properly positioned relative to the other teeth.

3. Fixing wires — after fixing the locks on the teeth, the orthodontist puts orthodontic wires on them, which connect the individual locks. The wire is properly adjusted and fixed with small rubber bands or ligatures. The wire is designed to exert gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually moving them to the correct position.

The installation of braces is a safe process that lasts from 1 to 2 hours, and its goal is to gradually move the teeth into the correct position, improving both the functionality and aesthetics of the smile.

Does it hurt to put a permanent brace on your teeth?

Putting on a permanent orthodontic appliance is not painful in itself, since the process consists mainly of gluing the locks to the teeth and applying wires. In the process of putting on the apparatus, the patient may feel some discomfort associated with the presence of tools in the oral cavity, but this does not cause much pain. However, after the appliance is put on, especially in the first days, there may be some pain complaints, such as a feeling of pressure or slight pain in the area of the teeth and gums. This is normal because the apparatus begins to work, moving the teeth to the desired place. The pain associated with braces is usually temporary and goes away after a few days when the teeth get used to the new position. In case of greater discomfort, the orthodontist may recommend the use of analgesic preparations or special protective waxes for the locks, which reduce irritation.

How long do teeth hurt after wearing a permanent brace?

Discomfort after wearing a permanent orthodontic appliance usually lasts from 2 to 5 days. At this time, the teeth may be sensitive to touch, and discomfort may occur when biting or chewing harder foods. The feeling of pressure that the appliance produces is natural because the appliance begins to move the teeth to the desired location. After a few days, most people feel relief, and the discomfort gradually subsides. However, if the pain is severe or lasts longer than usual, it is worth contacting an orthodontist to check that the appliance is correctly placed, or to consider the use of pain relievers recommended by a specialist. It is also worth remembering that similar complaints can occur after each follow-up visit, when the apparatus is adjusted or the wires are replaced.

Does wearing a fixed brace on your teeth hurt?

Wearing a fixed appliance on the teeth does not hurt in itself; however, in the first days after the appliance is put on and after each check-up visit where the appliance is adjusted, you may experience some discomfort or pain. This is due to the fact that the apparatus exerts constant pressure on the teeth to move them to the desired places. The feeling of pressure can cause tooth sensitivity, especially when biting or chewing hard foods. This pain is usually not severe, but can be bothersome for several days. After a few days, the teeth begin to get used to the new position, and the pain subsides. In case of greater discomfort, pain relievers or special protective waxes can be used, which relieve irritation caused by the locks of the apparatus. In general, the pain associated with wearing a fixed appliance is temporary and gradually decreases as treatment progresses.

How to relieve a toothache after wearing braces?

After wearing braces, many people experience some discomfort or pain, especially in the first days of treatment. This is completely normal and is due to the fact that the apparatus puts pressure on the teeth, causing them to gradually shift. Although this pain is usually not intense, it can be bothersome, especially when eating or when touched. Fortunately, there are several effective ways that help relieve pain and feelings of sensitivity, allowing the patient to adapt more easily to the new situation:

1. Pain relievers — pain medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to use them as directed by your doctor or as directed on the leaflet.

2. Cold compresses — applying a cold compress to the cheek in the area of the appliance can help relieve pain and reduce swelling. The cold has an anti-inflammatory effect and can bring relief in the first days after the appliance is put on.

3. Orthodontic wax — Orthodontic wax is a special product that can be applied to the braces to reduce their contact with the gums, which in turn reduces irritation and pain. This is especially helpful when the appliance causes chafing in the mouth.

4. Soft food — Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods for a few days after wearing the appliance. Choose soft foods such as yogurt, soups, or cooked vegetables that will not put strong pressure on your teeth.

5. Salt rinses — Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help relieve pain and reduce gum irritation. Water with salt has a soothing effect and has antibacterial properties.

6. Avoid hot and cold drinks — In the first days after wearing the braces, avoid consuming very hot or cold drinks, as they can increase tooth sensitivity.

If the pain lasts longer or is very intense, it is worth contacting an orthodontist to make sure the appliance has been put on correctly.

Does the inspection of the fixed braces on the teeth hurt?

During such visits, the orthodontist checks the progress of the treatment, makes the necessary adjustments to the appliance, and assesses whether the teeth are moving according to the treatment plan. Most patients experience a slight feeling of tightness or sensitivity after follow-up visits, especially when the orthodontist makes changes to the appliance.

At follow-up visits, the orthodontist will usually check how the teeth respond to the appliance, assess their shifting, and assess whether the treatment is going according to plan. Usually, every few weeks, the orthodontist replaces the wires with stronger ones to continue moving the teeth to the desired location. This replacement can cause a feeling of pressure on the teeth, which can last several days after the visit. Sometimes locks or ligatures can become loose or destroyed, so the orthodontist can replace or adjust them so that the appliance works properly.

The check-ups themselves are not painful; they can be associated with some discomfort associated with adjusting the apparatus. Discomfort after such visits is usually mild and goes away within a few days.

Does it hurt to take off the fixed camera?

Removing the fixed apparatus does not hurt, but it can cause some discomfort. The process of removing locks and wires from teeth is quick and performed by an orthodontist using specialized tools. When removing the apparatus, there should not be a strong feeling of pain, but the patient may feel slight pressure or jerking. In some cases, especially if the appliance has been worn for a long time, there may be a slight sensitivity within the teeth and gums, but this feeling goes away in a short time. After removing the braces, the orthodontist usually recommends wearing a retention device (such as a retention device) to maintain the results of the treatment.