Experiencing Pain After Getting Retainer: What You Need to Know

It's not uncommon for patients to feel discomfort or pain after receiving a new retainer. This pain can be alarming and may even cause tears, especially for those who have just received their retainer a week ago. If you are experiencing such intense pain, it is important to seek professional advice from your orthodontist. Let's dive into this issue and explore what you can do when your retainer starts to hurt so badly.

High Soreness Levels After One Week

Typically, a retainer should not be so sore to cause significant distress. If the pain is severe and persistent, you should consult your orthodontist. They can assess the situation and determine if the retainer needs to be adjusted or if some of the plastic should be removed.

Contact Your Orthodontist

Calling your orthodontist is the best course of action. They are the only professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your specific case. Whether the retainer needs to be loosened or some plastic material needs to be removed, your orthodontist can offer the correct guidance and assistance to help alleviate your discomfort.

Managing Intense Pain

While waiting to consult your orthodontist, you can take some measures to manage the pain. Pain relievers such as paracetamol (500mg) or ibuprofen (400mg) can be helpful when taken two to three times a day. Additionally, gargling with warm salt water three to four times a day can provide some relief.

Initial Discomfort and Pain

Dr. Raksha Narayan, a General and Cosmetic Dentist in India, explains that initial discomfort and pain are to be expected when getting new braces. The movement and forces applied by the wires and brackets can cause temporary pain, but you will get used to it over time.

Common Causes and Solutions

According to another source, it is quite normal for retainers to cause slight discomfort and pain due to the tight fit around the teeth. If the wire is rubbing against the gums, you can consult your local chemist for a soothing gel. Over time, the pain should subside. In rare cases, if the wire is too long, it may rub against the gum line causing irritation. Going back to your orthodontist can address these issues.

Personal Experiences and Tips

A person who experienced significant pain for two days after getting their retainer also shared advice. They found that consuming ice cream provided some relief because the cold temperature helped slightly loosen the tightness. Taking prescribed pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful, but always follow the recommended dosage. Sleeping with dental wax can also help protect your cheeks from irritation.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing intense pain after getting a new retainer, do not hesitate to contact your orthodontist. Understanding the normal discomfort and pain is crucial, and taking the appropriate steps can help you manage the situation. Remember, your orthodontist is the best resource for personalized advice and support.