Do You Need Braces But Worry They Will Be Painful? Keep Reading To Set The Record Straight!
There are many common misconceptions when it comes to braces. Some of the common misconceptions include that braces have to be really tight to be effective, or that braces are only made for children. The reality is, many of the common misconceptions about braces are simply not true. Painful braces are a common concern that parents and children alike have. The good news is, these myths aren’t true!
A lot of times, patients come into the office wondering if their braces will hurt. Interestingly, the truth is that, in and of themselves, braces are not painful. It is the forces braces apply to the teeth that actually cause discomfort. When we place braces, there is usually no pain associated with the placement itself. Once wires are placed onto those braces and begin to move the teeth, it is actually the wires that ultimately cause discomfort; however, that doesn’t usually happen immediately.
In fact, if at all, it usually occurs the following day and dissipates soon thereafter. Since we stay on top of the latest advances in orthodontics and always utilize the latest technology available, we make sure we utilize materials that are flexible and exert low level forces to help offset any potential discomfort patients may have when tightening their braces.
Another common myths is that if we tighten your braces more frequently or make them tighter, it will accelerate your treatment. This couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, applying more force to your braces won’t help speed up your treatment and in fact could cause more harm then good by damaging the bone or tissues in your mouth. We prefer slow and steady movement to ensure a more uniform result. This allows us to closely monitor your progress throughout treatment and make adjustments accordingly.
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In the past, due to archaic technology when braces were placed, patients would suffer discomfort for weeks on end. Today, however, it’s very often observed that a patient who initiates orthodontics experiences some minor discomfort on the second and third days and then, beyond that point, their teeth will not be sore at all. It’s often described as discomfort rather than pain because they’re simply getting used to the new hardware being in their mouth, not actually experiencing pain.
During orthodontic treatment, it is important to monitor any pain or discomfort a patient may experience because if painful braces persist beyond those first few days, it may be caused by something else the orthodontist needs to address. This can include ineffective rubber band wear or wires that may not be doing exactly what the orthodontist designed them to do.
It is important to recognize that persistent painful braces in orthodontics is not a good sign. If you are experiencing painful braces, we recommend informing your orthodontist as soon as possible so they can pinpoint the source of your pain and make any corrections that may be required to help relieve your pain.
If you are experiencing painful braces, please call and schedule a free screening at one of our five convenient orthodontic offices throughout Western New York.
At Orthodontists of Western New York our doctors and professional staff are committed to delivering the highest quality patient care. We proudly provide orthodontic services for children, adolescents, and adults, specializing in early treatment for children.
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Orthodontists Associates of Western New York is proud to offer braces for all ages throughout Buffalo, Lancaster, Olean, Hamburg, Orchard Park, and Dunkirk, New York. If you are considering orthodontic care for yourself or a loved one, please contact one of our 5 convenient orthodontic offices to arrange a free consultation.
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