5 Tips to Alleviate Brace Pain and Discomfort

Getting braces can be a life-changing experience, but it’s not always a painless one. You may experience discomfort and soreness in your mouth that can make eating, speaking, and even sleeping a challenge. However, there are things you can do to make your braces stop hurting and make the entire process more enjoyable.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that pain and discomfort are normal when you get braces. After all, your teeth are being realigned, and your mouth is getting used to having metal brackets and wires in it. However, there are simple ways to ease the pain and make the transition more manageable. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks that will help you alleviate the discomfort and make your journey to straighter teeth a smoother one. So, let’s dive in!

Here are the 10 subheadings with their respective paragraphs:

1. Use Over-the-Counter Painkillers

One of the most effective ways to alleviate brace pain is to take over-the-counter painkillers such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen. These medications can help reduce swelling and inflammation, which can cause discomfort around the braces. Before taking any medication, be sure to read the label for proper dosage and instructions. It’s also advisable to consult with your orthodontist to ensure that the medication won’t interfere with the braces.

2. Rinse Your Mouth with Saltwater

Saltwater is a natural remedy that can help soothe brace pain. Simply mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. The saltwater solution can help reduce inflammation and promote healing, which can alleviate pain around the braces. It’s recommended to rinse your mouth with saltwater at least three times a day.

3. Apply Orthodontic Wax

Orthodontic wax is a soft, pliable material that can be used to cover the braces and reduce friction with the gums and cheeks. This can help alleviate pain caused by braces rubbing against the delicate tissues inside the mouth. To apply orthodontic wax, first wash your hands and dry the area around the braces. Then, roll a small piece of wax into a ball and place it over the bracket or wire that’s causing the discomfort.

4. Ice the Affected Area

Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Simply place a small ice pack over the cheek or lips for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin, as it can cause frostbite.

5. Eat Soft Foods

Eating soft foods can help minimize the discomfort caused by braces. Hard and crunchy foods like chips, nuts, and popcorn can damage the braces and exacerbate the pain. Stick to softer foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes until the pain subsides.

6. Use Oral Anesthetic

Oral anesthetics can provide temporary relief from brace pain. These products contain a numbing agent that can reduce the sensation of pain in the mouth. Apply the anesthetic directly to the affected area using a cotton swab or the tip of your finger.

7. Avoid Sticky Foods

Sticky foods like candy and gum can damage the braces and increase discomfort. The sticky substance can get caught between the brackets and wires, causing additional pain and difficulty in cleaning. Avoid these types of foods or cut them into smaller pieces before consuming.

8. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce brace pain. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing and using an interdental brush can also help remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas around the braces.

9. Wear a Mouthguard

If you’re experiencing pain from braces while playing sports or engaging in physical activity, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth and braces. A mouthguard can reduce the impact of a blow to the mouth, which can cause additional pain and damage to the braces.

10. Schedule Regular Check-Ups With Your Orthodontist

Regular check-ups with your orthodontist can help identify and address any issues with the braces, including discomfort. During these appointments, your orthodontist can adjust the wires and brackets to ensure that they’re properly positioned and not causing undue pain. Be sure to follow your orthodontist’s instructions and attend all scheduled appointments to ensure the best possible outcome.

Ways to Alleviate Pain from Braces: Practical Tips

1. Rinse with Salt Water
Saltwater rinse is an excellent solution to braces pain, as it can help reduce swelling and inflammation. To prepare the solution, mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth every morning and night. Saltwater rinse can also help fight infection and promote healing.

2. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter painkillers are effective in reducing pain and discomfort associated with braces. Ibuprofen is a popular choice, as it can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Also, be sure to consult your orthodontist for advice on the best pain relivers for your situation.

3. Apply Heat or Cold to the Affected Area
Heat and cold are natural remedies that help alleviate pain and inflammation. A warm compress can be used to alleviate soreness, while a cold compress (such as an ice pack wrapped in a towel) can reduce swelling and inflammation. Hold the chosen compress against your jaw for about 15 minutes at a time.

4. Try Oral Anesthetic Gels
Oral anesthetic gels can be applied to the affected area to help numb the pain temporarily. Although it won’t target the root cause of the pain itself, it can help alleviate discomfort. Be sure to speak to your orthodontist before using anesthetic gels.

5. Chew Soft Foods
When you’re experiencing pain from braces, it helps to stick with soft and easy-to-chew foods. Avoid crunchy or sticky foods that can aggravate your braces. Some examples of soft foods include mashed potato, soup, yogurt, pasta, and scrambled eggs.

6. Use Orthodontic Wax
If your braces are rubbing against the inside of your mouth, you might experience some discomfort. Using orthodontic wax can help smooth out the edges of your brace that are rubbing against your mouth, reducing discomfort. Your orthodontist can provide you with wax for this purpose upon request.

7. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking lots of water can help reduce irritation in your mouth and keep your braces clean and healthy. When you’re dehydrated, your mouth can easily become dry and susceptible to bacteria and infection. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

8. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is important if you have braces as it helps clean your teeth and gums without causing abrasions. Hard-bristled brushes can damage your braces and your teeth’ enamel, leading to more discomfort and oral health issues.

9. Stay Consistent with Orthodontic Appointments
Keeping up with your appointments with your orthodontist is an important part of managing pain. Your orthodontist can identify the source of your discomfort and fix the issue before it causes more pain or complications down the line.

10. Keep Your Smile Clean
Good oral hygiene is essential when you have braces. A clean mouth will help reduce bacteria, which can cause inflammation and pain. Routinely brushing twice a day will help keep your mouth clean and healthy, reducing any pain or discomfort that comes along with your braces.

Section 3: Remedies for Braces Pain

Having braces can be uncomfortable, especially in the first few weeks of treatment. However, there are simple remedies you can do at home to soothe the pain and discomfort caused by your braces. Here are five ways to make your braces stop hurting:

1. Apply Ice

If you feel pain or soreness after your braces adjustment, applying ice to your mouth and jaw can help reduce the discomfort. Wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a towel and hold it against your cheeks for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat the process every hour or so until the pain subsides.

2. Rinse with Salt Water

Saltwater is an excellent remedy for mouth sores caused by braces. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and use it to swish around your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit out the mixture and repeat it two to three times a day. The saltwater helps reduce inflammation and promote healing, making it an effective treatment for sore gums and mouth sores.

3. Use Orthodontic Wax

Orthodontic wax is a safe and effective way to reduce irritation caused by braces. Apply a small amount of wax to the brackets, wires, or any area of your mouth that is causing discomfort. The wax acts as a barrier between your braces and the soft tissues in your mouth, preventing irritation and pain.

4. Eat Soft Foods

Eating hard, crunchy, and sticky foods can exacerbate the pain from braces. Instead, opt for soft, easy-to-chew foods like soup, mashed potatoes, and yogurt. Eating soft foods helps minimize pressure on your teeth and gums, reducing pain and discomfort.

5. Take Painkillers

If your pain is severe, you can take over-the-counter painkillers like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen to manage your discomfort. However, consult your orthodontist before taking any medication to ensure it is safe and won’t interfere with your treatment.

Conclusion

Experiencing pain and discomfort is normal during the first few weeks of braces treatment. However, by following these five remedies, you can make your braces stop hurting and ease the pain and discomfort. Remember to consult with your orthodontist if the pain persists or becomes unbearable.

Say Goodbye to Brace Pain!

Now that you know all of these tips and tricks, you’re ready to tackle your brace pain head-on! Remember to be patient and don’t give up. If one method doesn’t work, try another one until you find what works best for you. Don’t forget to take care of your braces by keeping them clean and following your orthodontist’s instructions. Thanks for reading and see you soon!