Tooth sensitivity following bonding

It is not unusual to feel some tooth sensitivity or discomfort following the insertion or adjustment of orthodontic appliances. During the first few days after getting your braces, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and your teeth may be sore or tender, especially if you apply pressure on them or if you chew hard food. If discomfort is severe, you can take a light analgesic such as what you normally take for headaches (Tyenol, Advil, aspirin, etc.) to try to alleviate the discomfort until you get used to your appliances. You can also rinse your mouth vigorously with lukewarm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water). Braces can sometimes irritate the lips, cheeks, tongue and gums, especially during the early stages of treatment when the tissues get accustomed to the surfaces of the appliances. We will give you some orthodontic wax and show you how you can cover the irritating portions of the appliances coming into contact with the soft tissues of the mouth.