Going to the dentist isn't any fun, but it is one of those things that just has to be done. For years, I fought the process and didn't go for my regular cleanings and in the end, it sure didn't pay to do so. I ended up spending ten times as much time in the chair and a boat-load of money in dental repairs. If you don't like going to the dentist, you can make it easier on yourself. This blog will show you a few tips that can help you improve the experience and get through the treatment without as much discomfort.
going to the dentist with less anxiety
The Truth About Braces Pain and How to Make It More Comfortable
Jordan Arnold
While nearly everyone would likely be happy to have straightened teeth, that doesn't mean that deciding to get braces is always an easy one. Some people are likely hesitant to get braces because they're afraid that they may cause pain. It's a reasonable concern since it's a dental process that literally moves the teeth in your mouth! However, there's no real reason to be fearful. Here's what you can expect when it comes to getting braces.
No Pain
The vast majority of people who get braces will experience no pain at all. No major operations are performed on the teeth when braces are put in place. They're applied with adhesive, and then wires are used to gently tug the newly placed brackets in the direction that they need to go. This gentle pressure gradually guides the teeth in the direction they need to go in. There are no sudden shifts or adjustments made, so you don't have to worry about being in some kind of agony, even after your braces are adjusted.
Potential Discomfort
While there's no pain with braces, there is some potential for discomfort. This is because patients often don't follow the recommended process for caring for their teeth between check-ups and adjustments.
For example, poor dental hygiene care during this time can lead to some discomfort, simply because your gums may become sensitive. Furthermore, some patients will be given directions to perform secondary procedures while they're at home, by doing things like wearing a retainer or headgear along with their braces. Skipping this could mean that your teeth haven't moved as much as they should have at the next adjustment, which could either delay your treatment schedule, cause discomfort, or both.
How to Avoid
If you follow your orthodontist's directions and take good care of your teeth while you have braces, there's no reason to worry about pain or discomfort. Braces are designed with the patient in mind and aren't intended to cause pain. There are even additional methods you can use for minor cases of discomfort, like numbing gel or braces wax, which will help to control some of the more common causes of potential discomfort and keep you comfortable. If you feel, at any time, that your braces are causing you discomfort, get in touch with your orthodontist. However, you'll likely find that this is unnecessary because you'll be comfortably achieving a new smile soon.
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