Navigating Elastic Pain: Tips for New Braces Wearers

Transitioning to braces can come with a range of discomforts, and one of the most common is the elastic pain. If you’ve just started using elastics for your braces, it's entirely normal to experience some level of discomfort. But don't worry; there are ways to manage the pain and make the adjustment smoother.

Understanding the Pain

When I first began using elastics, I experienced severe pain that persisted through the night. It became challenging to eat and made a simple daily routine rather difficult. However, after taking pain relievers and having some ice cream, I tried again the next morning. I found that the pain was still quite intense but by giving myself a day or two to adjust, the initial discomfort began to subside.

My personal experience is not professional orthodontic advice, but rather a firsthand account of a fellow braces wearer. While it is common to experience some pain when starting elastics, it is important to consult your orthodontist if the pain is persistent or severe.

Managing the Pain with Medication

To help manage the pain, I highly recommend taking some ibuprofen. This medication can help with both pain and inflammation, making the process more manageable.

However, if the pain persists, it is crucial to visit your dentist or orthodontist for further evaluation. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options to ensure your comfort and well-being during the adjustment period.

Personal Experience with Elastics

I myself have never used elastics, but I can tell you that they can be incredibly tough. When I had my first set of braces, I couldn't eat solid food for over a week. My diet consisted mainly of yogurt, milk, juice, and soup. Even the simple act of closing my lips over my teeth caused pain that lasted for a long time.

Adding to the inconvenience, this occurred during my summer break, and my favorite activity, snorkeling, was also impacted. I tried to enjoy my first day at the beach but found that the snorkeling tube, which is often part of the snorkel gear, caused excruciating pain. As a result, my summer was cut short, and I spent the next few months feeling sore and disappointed.

Professional Advice for Handling the Pain

As an orthodontist, I can share some professional tips based on my experience. The average patient feels only a little pain when starting elastics. However, there are a few things you can do to minimize the discomfort:

Weakener Elastic Options: If the elastics are causing too much pain, it might be a good idea to start with weaker elastics until your mouth adjusts. Your orthodontist can help you choose a more suitable option. Custom Sensitivity: You might have a higher sensitivity to pain. If this is the case, discuss this with your orthodontist, and they might be able to provide you with additional support or different options to help manage your pain effectively.

The worst 2 years of my life might be an exaggeration, but the discomfort and inconvenience of braces can be significant. However, with the right tools and advice, you can make the process more comfortable and bearable.

Remember, the adjustment period to braces is normal and temporary. With the right care and support from your orthodontist, you can ease into your braces and make the most of your treatment.