Dreaming of a perfect smile, but nervous about braces? If you are considering braces, you probably have wondered if they will cause any pain or discomfort. At Cook Orthodontics, our Orange County orthodontists care about your smile and your comfort. Which is why we want you to know what to expect during your orthodontic treatment. During your treatment, there will be some moments of temporary discomfort, but with tips from our orthodontists in the Orange County, Coto de Caza, and Rancho Santa Margarita area, we’ll hopefully be getting you on a quick and painless path towards a beautiful smile

Getting Your Braces On

The step of applying braces to the teeth should have minimal to no pain. Getting used to the device on the first day will take a little time, and it might take a little longer to eat. Our Coto de Caza orthodontist Dr. Cook recommends sticking to softer foods, such as soup, yogurt, and pasta, during the first few days, so that you can adjust to chewing with your braces.

The First Few Days

During this time is typically when patients will begin to feel a little discomfort. The pain and pressure from the wires and brackets will eventually dissipate as your body adjusts to the realignment. Yet in the meantime, our orthodontists recommend taking over-the-counter pain medication to provide some relief. You can also apply wax if the braces are cutting or irritating the inside of your mouth. Our Rancho Santa Margarita orthodontic office will provide you with all the tools and instructions you need to have a quick and comfortable treatment. By five days to a week, your teeth will have adapted to the braces and most discomfort should be gone. You should be completely used to your braces within a month, and soon you won’t even realize they are there at all.

Orthodontic Appointments

In order to achieve a perfect smile, regular orthodontic appointments will be necessary. Each time the braces will be adjusted and monitored to gradually move your teeth into proper alignment. Yet after each appointment, you may feel slightly uncomfortable once again until you adjust to the realignment. Similarly to when you get your braces on, over-the-counter pain relievers, eating soft food, wax, and even salt water rinses are recommended to help alleviate the pain.

Contact Your Orange County Orthodontist today!

At Cook Orthodontics, we strive to help you obtain a beautiful smile with minimal discomfort. That’s why our orthodontists work hard with each of our patients in the Orange Country area, including Coto De Caza and Rancho Santa Margarita, to create a positive orthodontic experience. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you are considering braces or any other orthodontic treatment in the Orange County area, contact us today and schedule your appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams!