Are Your Teeth Supposed To Hurt After Getting Braces Off
Introduction
Getting braces off can be an exciting moment, but it’s also common to experience some discomfort or pain. Many patients wonder if this is normal and how long it will last. In this article, we’ll answer the question, “Are your teeth supposed to hurt after getting braces off?”
What Happens When You Get Braces Off?
When you get your braces off, your orthodontist will remove the brackets and wires from your teeth. They will then clean your teeth and polish them to remove any remaining adhesive. Your orthodontist may also take impressions of your teeth to create retainers to help maintain your new smile.
Why Do Your Teeth Hurt After Getting Braces Off?
After getting your braces off, your teeth may feel tender or sore. This is because the brackets and wires have been applying pressure to your teeth for an extended period of time. This pressure causes the teeth to shift and move into the correct position. Once the braces are removed, the teeth may feel sore as they adjust to their new positions.
How Long Will the Pain Last?
The pain or discomfort after getting braces off typically lasts for a few days to a week. It’s important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions for aftercare, which may include taking over-the-counter pain medication and eating soft foods. After a week, the discomfort should subside, and your teeth should feel back to normal.
What Can You Do to Relieve the Pain?
If you’re experiencing pain after getting your braces off, there are a few things you can do to relieve the discomfort:
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed
- Eat soft foods, such as soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth for 10-20 minutes at a time
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation
When Should You Contact Your Orthodontist?
If the pain or discomfort after getting your braces off is severe or lasts longer than a week, you should contact your orthodontist. They may want to see you for a follow-up appointment to ensure that everything is healing properly.
Conclusion
It’s normal to experience some discomfort or pain after getting your braces off. This is due to the pressure that the brackets and wires have been applying to your teeth. The pain should subside within a few days to a week, and there are things you can do to relieve the discomfort. If the pain is severe or lasts longer than a week, contact your orthodontist for a follow-up appointment.