This is often the first question I am asked during consultations. It is also one of the toughest to answer.
Pain is subjective in nature. It is unique to each person and there is great variation. We all have different pain thresholds, and we all deal with it differently. Most people who have had braces will tell you that they experienced pain at some point in their treatment. It is true that there is always some pain associated with braces. But how much pain is difficult to predict. What I commonly tell all my patients is that they may experience some discomfort, especially the first couple of days after the braces are placed. I also point out that there is a distinction to be made between pain and discomfort. The word “pain” in my opinion is too strong for what is commonly experienced by people having braces. I rather use the word “discomfort” or “soreness” because it is a more accurate description. This discomfort is usually mild in nature and can be alleviated by simple over the counter medications like Advil or Tylenol. It is also short lasting and goes away after few days.
I like to think of the discomfort of braces as muscle aches after a long marathon or a good workout. Just like your leg muscles are sore after running or your arms ache after a workout, so can your teeth after they are moved. And the longer period of time one hasn’t run, the more the legs will hurt. Similarly, if teeth have been stable and undisturbed in the mouth for a long period of time, it is expected that they will be soar after the braces are placed for the first time and the teeth moved.
So to answer this difficult question in simple terms, yes there is some “discomfort” associated with braces but it is usually mild and can be dealt with by simple over-the- counter pain medications. The soreness typically starts the day after the braces are placed or tightened and last anywhere from one to four to five days. After about a week most orthodontic patients are back to normal.
Dr. Reza Salmassian is a Board Certified Orthodontist and specializes in orthodontics for Children and Adults. For any questions regarding this article or to schedule your complimentary orthodontic evaluation, please contact Dr. Salmassian’s office at 661-222-7444. The office is located at the Bridgeport Marketplace, 24001 Newhall Ranch Road, Suite 220 in Valencia.