How does the orthodontist tighten braces?

Question

Ok so I've had braces on my top teeth for about 9 weeks. At week 5 I had an appointment, and what the orthodontist did was just take out the archwire and put it another one. And it didn't even hurt after wards, so I don't think that's how they tighten it. So how do they? And is it painful while it is being done?

Answer 1

that is how they tightened them but it may hurt next time so best of luck and i really hope it doesn't hurt next time either well you are very lucky god bless you

Answer 2

Normally, the orthodontist should tighten the braces every month, once per month for each appointment.

They would usually remove the old, loosened rubber bands and replace them with tighter, new rubber bands.  This will tighten the hold down on the wire, and pull your teeth together.

I hope this helped a little.

Answer 3

I had braces on TWICE for a total of 4 years...they tighten them witth the wires and pulling back before using the rubber bands to set it on your teeth. Out of all the times they re-tightened my braces, I can't remember any significant pain. All the pain comes for 3-4 days right after the ortho appt. Start liking jello and soft foods...it even hurts to bite into bread!

Answer 4

That is how braces are usually tightened (for some cases people need braces w/ a key that you have to turn to tighten it and then go to monthly app.) However I had braces for 2 1/2 yrs and that is how my braces were tightened every time. Also you will get different bands applied every now and than depending on the issue the orthodontist needs to tackle. There are single loop bands and then sometimes there will be bands that will connect all across your teeth to pull them together (usually towards the end of having braces or needing to adjust placement mid-way.)

Sometimes the tightening will not hurt the first or second appointment. However as your teeth begin to shift more, you will feel the soreness.  Your teeth might being to hurt during you appointments depending on how much wire was tightened and which bands were used and how they were placed.  Then just pop a tylenol and that will help.

When your teeth become sore, avoid bread at first (it tugs at the teeth causing pain sometimes); I always ate tuna salad, scrambled eggs, tofu, oatmeal, soup, mash potato and jello. Just some suggestions in case you start to feel the soreness taking place soon.