FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - DO BRACES HURT?

Dr. Koenig is using the most current technology for orthodontic movement of teeth. Our new SmartClipTM braces are smaller and smoother than the old ones. We can now use high-tech titanium alloy wires to move teeth with continuous light forces over a longer period of time. Some patients may experience some discomfort for two to three days after an adjustment.

MINIMIZING DISCOMFORT IN ORTHODONTICS

The fear of pain in orthodontic therapy in probably the most universal concern among orthodontic patients. Studies have shown that pre-medicating with analgesics (we used to say "whatever you use for a headache") can be quite effective in greatly reducing or eliminating pain when braces are put on as well as for difficult adjustments later on.

Recent studies have determined that naproxen (Alleve) is the most effective at eliminating discomfort. If you prefer, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) can also be effective.

RECOMMENDED DOSAGES FOR ORTHODONTIC PATIENTS
Naproxen (Aleve)	2 tablets (440 mg total)
Ibuprofen (Motrin)	2 tablets (440 mg total)
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)	2 tablets (500 mg total)
Medication should be given 1 hour before the appointment and at nighttime that day. Additional medication may be used for a day or two, morning and night, for patients with loewer pain thresholds. As with any medication, please read the labels to determine if that medication is appropriate for you or your child.

References:
Polat, Karaman, and Durmas. Effects of Preoperative Ibuprofen and Naprosen Sodium on Orthodontic Pain, Angle Orthodontist, Vol.75, No.5, 2005.
Polat and Karaman, Pain Control During Fixed Orthodonic Appliance Therapy, Angle Orthodontist, Vol.75, No. 2, 2005.