Braces are a popular and effective way to straighten your teeth, but many people wonder how painful braces actually are.
Whether you’ve been advised by your dentist to get braces or are exploring your options to get straighter teeth, you may have concerns about what to expect. Before getting braces, it’s helpful to know exactly what kind of discomfort you will have.
Braces work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to your teeth to gradually move them into their proper positions. This pressure can lead to some soreness, though this doesn’t last for long.
This article will walk you through what causes the mild pain with braces, how long the discomfort from braces lasts, and an alternative teeth-straightening method if you decide that braces aren’t for you.
What causes braces to be painful?
Braces consist of several parts, including brackets that are attached to each tooth, wires that connect the brackets, and sometimes small elastic bands.
During orthodontic appointments, the wires are tightened. This increases the pressure on your teeth which leads to the temporary discomfort.
It’s also common to experience slight irritation in the mouth, particularly on the insides of the cheeks and lips, as the brackets or wires may rub against these areas. However, this is usually mild and temporary.
How long will braces be painful for?
The pain caused by braces is usually short-lived. Most people experience discomfort for about 3-5 days after getting their braces or after an adjustment.
The discomfort is often most intense in the first few days, as your teeth and gums adjust to the new pressure.
As your teeth begin to shift into their new positions, this soreness gradually decreases.
Alternatives to braces
While braces have been a trusted way to straighten teeth for many years, they may not be the right option for everyone.
A popular alternative to traditional metal braces is clear aligners. These removable trays provide a more comfortable, convenient, and discreet method of straightening teeth.
Just like braces, clear aligners gradually shift teeth into place, but without the need for brackets or wires.
Clear aligners are virtually invisible, which makes them a great choice for those who want a more discreet treatment option. They’re also removable, which means you can take them out to eat, drink, or clean your teeth, providing more flexibility compared to braces.
Smilelign Clear Aligners
If you’re interested in the idea of clear aligners, Smilelign Clear Aligners stand out as one of the fastest and most affordable teeth straightening options on the market.
Smilelign aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit. They gradually move teeth into the desired positions with minimal discomfort, and require fewer trips to the dentist. You’ll simply switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks.
Since Smilelign Clear Aligners move teeth more at each stage than any other aligner system, less aligners are needed to complete treatment – making the cost of treatment cheaper!
How to straighten teeth with Smilelign
Want to get started with Smilelign Clear Aligners?
Getting started is easier and quicker than you might think. Smilelign offers a modern, convenient, and discreet way to straighten your teeth without the hassle of traditional braces.
Step 1: Find your nearest Smilelign provider
At your first appointment, your dentist will explain the Smilelign system and take impressions or 3D scans of your teeth.
Step 2: Let us work our magic
Once we receive your impressions, our team of skilled treatment planners will use advanced software to create a custom treatment plan, mapping the exact journey your teeth will take to achieve your desired smile.
Step 3: Give your approval
During your follow-up appointment, you’ll review your treatment plan with your dentist. This includes seeing before-and-after images, learning how many aligners you’ll need, how long your treatment will take, and discussing the cost.
Step 4: Start your treatment
Once you approve the plan, the Smilelign team will produce your active aligners, and you’ll begin your treatment!
Ready to start your smile transformation? Find your nearest Smilelign provider today and begin treatment in as little as 10 days!
