Opting for orthodontic treatment can make someone feel both excited and quite nervous. This is a significant turning point for their oral health and the aesthetics of their smile. Orthodontic treatment can be performed for several reasons. Treatment will inevitably improve the appearance of the patient’s smile. This is true whether you’re adjusting the jaw’s position, the placement or angle of the teeth, etc. However, this improvement occasionally comes along with a mild degree of discomfort. This is a typical result of this form of treatment, and methods of addressing these are available.
Soothing Orthodontic Pain Following Treatment
Orthodontic treatment generally doesn’t result in persistent discomfort throughout the treatment period. However, it’s not uncommon for the first couple of weeks to include some minor pain as things get started. The same experience will, of course, vary from patient to patient. Some patients report no discomfort at all during the initial two weeks, while others report a need for pain mitigation options. In these latter cases, simple over-the-counter medication is generally sufficient to address any discomfort.
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: NSAIDs are a standard pain-relief option provided whenever swelling or inflammation is present. Orthodontic treatment may result in gum and cheek inflammation due to irritation from the orthodontic appliance being used. Naproxen sodium, ibuprofen, Aleve, and Motrin are all common NSAIDs you can find in your pharmacy.
- Analgesics: This family of medications is frequently prescribed alongside NSAIDs due to their ability to work synergistically in reducing pain. Acetaminophen is a well-known analgesic, with one brand name being Aspirin.
- Targeted Nutritional Guidance: Dietary choices are essential for easing pain from orthodontic treatment. You need to ensure that your diet doesn’t put undue strain on your orthodontic appliance.
Once you’ve gotten your orthodontic appliance placed, you should speak to your dentist about any extant pain. They’ll have worked with patients like you who need a little extra help addressing the discomfort that can happen immediately after orthodontic care. They’ll let you know if your symptoms are typical, when it’s essential to tell them about persistent symptoms, and what medication may help. Most orthodontic pain fades within two weeks of starting long-term treatment, so keep heart that your discomfort is temporary.
Managing Orthodontic Pain After Treatment
Getting orthodontic treatment is an important move in ensuring the lasting health of your teeth. Every day that you go with teeth that are misaligned, crowded, or out of place, strain your smile. When you commit to receiving orthodontic treatment, you’re showing that your oral health matters by protecting it for years to come.
While it’s common for orthodontic patients to report some degree of discomfort following treatment, it’s generally temporary. However, it’s important to report symptoms to your dentist, especially if they persist. Persistent discomfort after orthodontic care can indicate the presence of more serious concerns. So remember to communicate clearly with them throughout the entire treatment period to make sure you get the results you want!
