4 Smart Strategies for Minimizing Orthodontic Discomfort
Orthodontic treatment can work wonders to turn crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth into a beautifully symmetrical smile. However, the process of straightening your teeth often involves some degree of discomfort. Discover four smart strategies to minimize that discomfort.
1. Choose Clear Aligners Over Traditional Braces
Many individuals choose clear aligner trays such as Invisalign over traditional braces. Although some dental alignment problems respond better to brackets and wires, clear aligners can correct a surprisingly wide range of mild to moderate orthodontic issues without posing the cosmetic challenges of traditional braces.
In addition to providing more visually discreet correction, clear aligner trays may also prove more comfortable than traditional braces. The smooth plastic surfaces can’t irritate the soft tissues inside your mouth as the sharper components of traditional braces often do. Ask your orthodontist whether you can or should choose this option.
2. Consider Lingual Braces
Some people who require orthodontic correction can’t benefit from clear aligner trays. For instance, if you struggle with abnormally shaped teeth, wide gaps between teeth, or a severe overbite, your orthodontist will recommend traditional braces for more effective results. However, you don’t have to display those braces to the whole world.
Instead of traditional braces that cover the forward-facing surfaces of your teeth, ask your orthodontist about the possibility of receiving lingual braces. These metal braces go on the inner tooth surfaces, making them invisible to the public.
Although some individuals find that lingual braces irritate the tongue, they don’t experience the tiny cuts and irritations of the inner lip tissues that labial braces can create. You can also apply dental wax to lingual braces, smoothing out their surfaces and protecting your tongue, without spoiling your smile.
3. Practice Self Care After a Tightening Session
Braces and aligners work their corrective magic gradually through incremental adjustments that tighten the pressure on teeth and encourage them to shift in the right directions. Every time you undergo one of these periodic adjustment sessions, you will likely experience some fresh discomfort for a few days afterward.
Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce and manage this temporary annoyance. Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and a cold compress should control pain and swelling. Gentle gum massage to boost blood flow in the irritated areas can also help, as can sipping on cool water.
4. Take Advantage of the Latest Orthodontic Technologies
Orthodontic medicine continues to advance by leaps and bounds, introducing new treatments and technologies that can minimize pain and increase treatment effectiveness. One such advance, PROPEL VPro5, may reduce discomfort in orthodontic patients.
The PROPEL VPro5 includes a high-frequency vibration device that attaches to a mouthpiece. Just a few minutes of use each day allows the high-frequency vibrations to stimulate the teeth and bones, promoting minimized discomfort and promoting tissue healing. Some patients compare the sensation to a massage for the teeth and gums.
Rosen Orthodontics can help you make the right choices and implement the right strategies to enjoy the most comfortable and effective orthodontic experience possible. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and discuss your orthodontic options in detail.
