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How Much Do Braces Hurt?
Most people are unaware of the level of discomfort and pain they’ll have to tolerate throughout the procedure, which makes them anxious. Any orthodontic treatment will cause discomfort up to a certain amount. Typically, your teeth will hurt for a few days or weeks after getting your braces. The pain will vary depending on the type of braces you choose and the alignment of your teeth. Let’s take a deeper look into the pain level associated with types of braces:1. Metal Braces
Metal braces have been in use for over 100 years. These were the most widely used braces a few years back and were probably the only treatment for straightening the teeth. Metal braces are aesthetically unpleasing as they are noticeable from far away. The brackets are glued to the teeth, and a metal wire is tied to connect them.Pain Level
Having a metal set up in your mouth can be discomforting. The initial few weeks can be painful as you feel the teeth shift. Apart from the pain, you may also feel irritation in your mouth as the metal braces rub against the inner side of your lips and cheeks. Moreover, the pressure on your teeth may make them sensitive to touch. Every time your orthodontist tightens your braces, you may feel more pressure.Duration and Cost
The duration of metal braces may vary anywhere between one to three years, according to the severity of the case. The average cost of metal braces is around $5,000-$6,000.2. Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work in the same manner as metal braces, but they are less noticeable. These are made of tooth-colored material, which makes them more discreet and less visible than metal ones. The problems associated with ceramic braces are the same as the metal braces. Ceramic braces can be an aesthetically favorable option for adolescents or adults who wish to keep their braces low-key. Ceramic braces can stain easily due to diet habits or improper brushing.Pain Level
After getting your braces, you may start feeling pressure and discomfort. It is normal to feel pain after getting your braces as your teeth, tongue, gums, and lips adjust to the new sensations. Some people may also experience pain associated with swollen gums, irritated cheeks and lips, sensitivity, and jaw tensions. The first week can be the hardest as your teeth begin to shift in response to the pressure. After the initial week, the pain may subside as your mouth gets used to the pressure. You may feel more pressure when your braces get tightened after every orthodontic appointment.Time and Costs
The duration of the treatment is almost the same as metal braces and may range from one to three years. The manufacturing process of ceramic braces is a bit more expensive, and its total cost may range from $4,000-$8,000.3. Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are the least common orthodontic treatment as it requires specialized skills. These braces are completely invisible from the front as they are placed on the inner side of the teeth. Lingual braces require specialized orthodontic skills, which only a few possess. Since these braces are at the back of your teeth, they are more discomforting for the tongue. Some people may also feel slight changes in their speech.Pain
The pain you feel during the treatment is mainly due to the pressure on the teeth. However, some believe that lingual braces may cause more discomfort than metal or ceramic braces as they irritate your tongue and temporary lisps are common. During the initial week, patients may feel soreness and irritation in the mouth, along with the pain of teeth shifting. After a few days or weeks, the pain may reduce as your tongue gets accustomed to the braces.Expenditure and Time
Since lingual braces require specialized skills and are more complex to place, their costs are also higher than other braces. The average expense of lingual braces can range from $8,000-$10,000. These braces may take anywhere between one to two years to give you the desired results.What is the Best Option?
If you wish to straighten your teeth with minimal discomfort, we have a solution for you. The best alternative to buccal braces is the invisible aligners. These are made of polycarbonate and are completely transparent. These clear braces are removable, and trays are switched every two weeks to help teeth move into the desired position. Clear aligners can overcome almost all shortcomings of the traditional braces, and a study also suggests that clear aligners promote better oral hygiene. Other benefits of clear braces include:- More comfortable as compared to metal braces
- No food restrictions as you can remove these trays while eating
- Minimal discomfort and painless procedure
- Less conspicuous and aesthetically pleasing
- No mouth irritation usually caused by metal braces and poking wires
- You can also order clear aligners at home and perform the treatment yourself without visiting the orthodontist
